Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged NC License or ID

Step-by-step guide to getting your duplicate license fast.

Good News

Replacing a lost or stolen license is straightforward. In most cases, you won't need to retake any tests — just verify your identity and get a new card issued.

Step-by-Step Replacement Process

1

Choose Your Replacement Type

Decide what type of replacement you need:

Standard Duplicate

Same license type, same information. Just a replacement card.

Upgrade to REAL ID

Good opportunity to upgrade while you're replacing anyway.

If your license was stolen: Consider filing a police report. While not required for the DMV, it can help protect you from identity theft.

2

Gather Required Documents

Bring original documents — photocopies are not accepted.

Required Documents:

One proof of identity

U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, or naturalization certificate

One proof of Social Security number

SSN card, W-2, or pay stub with full SSN

Two proofs of NC residency (if address changed)

Utility bill, lease, bank statement, vehicle registration

Name change documents (if applicable)

Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order

Damaged card (if applicable)

Bring it to surrender, even if it's in pieces

3

Schedule Your DMV Appointment

You'll need an in-person visit to a driver license office. The official calendar often shows slots booked 60-90 days out, but cancellations create the quickest openings — they're grabbed fast, though.

4

Visit the DMV

Present your documents, confirm your information, and take a new photo and signature. Testing is generally not required for a simple replacement — you're just verifying your identity.

5

Pay & Receive Temporary Card

Pay the duplicate license fee (approximately $13 for a standard duplicate). You'll receive a temporary paper credential. Your permanent card arrives by mail within 2-3 weeks.

While You Wait for Your Replacement

  • Use your temporary paper credential as ID
  • If you have a passport, use that as backup ID
  • Consider downloading a digital copy of your NC license to your phone (available through the NC DMV app)

Need a Replacement Appointment Fast?

Get instant SMS alerts when "Duplicate/Replacement" appointment slots open up at NC DMV offices near you.

$19.99/month
  • Instant SMS notifications
  • All NC DMV locations covered
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Customer Story

"Lost my wallet on a Friday. Signed up for alerts that night. By Monday morning, I had an appointment for the next day. Got my temporary license and was back to normal within 48 hours."

— Greensboro resident

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This is a privately owned service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.