New to NC?

How to Transfer Your Out-of-State Driver's License to North Carolina

New residents have 60 days to get an NC license. Here's how to do it.

60-Day Requirement

North Carolina law requires new residents to obtain an NC driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. Don't wait!

Step-by-Step License Transfer Guide

1

Understand NC Residency Requirements

You're considered an NC resident if you've lived in the state for 30+ days or demonstrate intent to make it your permanent home (e.g., registered to vote, enrolled children in school, working in NC). Once you become a resident, you have 60 days to obtain your NC license.

2

Gather All Required Documents

This is the most critical step. Missing documents is the #1 reason people get turned away. Bring originals — photocopies are not accepted.

Required Documents:

Your current out-of-state driver's license

Must be valid (not expired more than 2 years)

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 showing full SSN

Two proofs of NC residency

Utility bill, lease, bank statement, voter registration card, NC vehicle registration

Proof of liability insurance

If you're registering a vehicle in NC

3

Schedule Your DMV Appointment

This is often the hardest part. NC DMV appointments can be booked out 60-90 days — which creates a problem when you only have 60 days to get your license. Options:

  • Book any available appointment immediately, even if it's weeks out
  • Check multiple office locations — smaller offices often have earlier slots
  • Watch for cancellations (they happen daily)
  • Use our alert service to get notified when slots open up
4

Pass Required Tests

Good news: most out-of-state license transfers only require:

Required for Most Transfers

  • • Vision screening
  • • Road sign recognition test

May Be Required If:

  • • License expired >2 years: written test
  • • Under 18: driving test
  • • Foreign license: written + driving
5

Pay the Fee & Receive Your License

The NC driver's license fee is approximately $5.50 per year of term (typically $44 for an 8-year license). You'll surrender your out-of-state license and receive a temporary paper credential. Your permanent NC license will be mailed within 2-3 weeks.

FAQs for New NC Residents

Do I need to retake the written test?

Usually no. If you have a valid out-of-state license that hasn't been expired for more than 2 years, you typically only need the vision and sign recognition tests.

Do I need to retake the driving test?

Usually no. A driving test is generally only required for applicants under 18 or those with foreign licenses.

What if my appointment is past the 60-day deadline?

This is a common problem due to DMV backlogs. While technically you should have your NC license within 60 days, having a scheduled appointment demonstrates good faith effort. Try to find an earlier slot through cancellations.

Can I drive on my out-of-state license while waiting?

Yes, as long as it's valid. However, after 60 days of NC residency, you're technically required to have an NC license.

Transfer Your License Faster

Get instant SMS alerts when "Out-of-State Exchange" appointment slots open up at NC DMV offices near you.

Get Fast Lane Alerts - $19.99/mo

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