North Carolina DMV Appointments

North Carolina DMV Appointments and Services

The North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) has implemented several changes to its appointment scheduling and services to better accommodate the needs of its customers. These changes include limiting scheduled appointments to morning hours, opening additional offices earlier, providing estimated wait times online, offering Saturday hours during peak season, expanding online services, and introducing self-service kiosks.

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REAL ID Appointment Requirements

Vehicle Registrations Appointment Requirements

North Carolina Drivers License Appointment Requirements

Services Available by Appointment https://skiptheline.ncdot.gov/

The North Carolina DMV provides a range of services that can be scheduled through their online appointment scheduler. These services aim to make it easier for customers to access essential DMV offerings in a timely and convenient manner. The following services are available by appointment:

  1. N.C. REAL ID: Customers can schedule appointments to obtain a N.C. REAL ID enhancement for their North Carolina driver license or ID card. This involves selecting the appropriate service type, such as Driver License – First Time, Driver License Duplicate, Driver License Renewal, or ID Card, depending on the individual's current license status.

  2. License Renewal: Appointments can be made for renewing driver licenses, ensuring that customers maintain valid driving privileges.

  3. Driver License Duplicate/Replacement: Customers who need a duplicate or replacement driver license can schedule an appointment to obtain a new copy.

  4. First-Time North Carolina Driver License: Those applying for a driver license in North Carolina for the first time can book an appointment to complete the required process.

  5. ID Cards: Appointments can be scheduled for obtaining or renewing North Carolina ID cards.

  6. Permits: Customers can book appointments to obtain various permits, including commercial driver licenses (CDL) and motorcycle permits.

  7. Teen Driver Levels: Appointments can be made for teenagers progressing through the Graduated Licensing Program, covering Teen Driver Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.

  8. Motorcycle Skills Tests: Motorcycle road tests are available by appointment, weather permitting, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at limited office locations.

  9. Knowledge/Computer Tests: Appointments can be scheduled for knowledge and computer tests required for obtaining permits, driver licenses, and other DMV-related services.

Scheduled Appointments Limited to Morning Hours

Starting May 1, scheduled appointments at the North Carolina DMV can only be booked in the mornings through 11 a.m. To schedule an appointment, customers can visit skiptheline.ncdot.gov. Afternoon services will be offered on a walk-in basis to improve availability. Appointments can be made for various services, such as N.C. REAL ID, license renewal, driver license duplicate/replacement, first-time North Carolina driver licenses, ID cards, permits, and tests.

Appointment Booking and Management

Customers are encouraged to book appointments online and continue checking for availability, as new appointments are added daily. Fictitious appointment entries will be immediately cancelled by DMV upon discovery. To find, cancel, or reschedule an appointment, customers can visit the appointment scheduler and click on "Find, Cancel or Reschedule."

Online Appointment Services

The NCDMV offers a variety of services through its online appointment scheduler, including N.C. REAL ID, license renewal, driver license duplicate/replacement, first-time North Carolina driver license, ID cards, permits, and various tests. Customers can book appointments for motorcycle skills tests, knowledge/computer tests, and teen driver levels.

In case of incorrect service selection, the appointment type can be corrected and re-routed during the appointment visit. Currently, appointment lookup is only available using the telephone number provided during booking.

NC DMV Online Services

Many common DMV tasks can be completed without having to set foot in a DMV office. For example, you can use the North Carolina DMV’s online portal to:

CDL Road Tests & Language Services Appointments

Commercial driver license (CDL) road tests require customers to call 919-715-7000 to make an appointment, as online scheduling is currently unavailable for this service. American Sign Language (ASL) and language interpreters can be requested online or by calling the same number.

Best Times to Visit the North Carolina DMV

If you do have to visit a North Carolina licensing office, choosing the right time for your trip can make a big difference in regards to the length of time you’ll spend there.

Consider avoiding:

  • Mondays and Fridays. The middle of the week is usually less crowded.
  • The first and last days of the month.
  • The lunch hour and evenings. It’s also important to give yourself enough time to complete your transaction (e.g. taking an exam).
  • The days immediately before or after a holiday.

North Carolina DMV Appointment FAQs

How do I find, cancel, or reschedule my appointment?
Go to the Online Appointment Scheduler and click on Find, Cancel or Reschedule. You will need the telephone number you entered at the time you made the appointment.
Can I check for appointments by date rather than office?
You must first select a location to advance to the date selection option.
How do I correct my appointment type if I selected the wrong service?
You may correct the appointment type upon office check-in.
How do I request an ASL or language interpreter?
You can request this service online or by calling 919-715-7000.
Can I schedule a CDL road test appointment online?
No, appointments for CDL road tests cannot be made online at this time. To make an appointment for a CDL road test, please call 919-715-7000.
What should I do if I cannot find an available appointment?
If you do not find an available appointment, please continue to check back as newly available appointments are added each day. Or if you have time, try to walk in. 
Can I renew my driver's license online?
Yes, driver licenses can be renewed up to two years after expiration.
Can I renew my State ID card or Level 3 Full Provisional License online?
State ID cards and Level 3 Full Provisional Licenses cannot be renewed online once they have expired. However, changes would allow customers with these credentials to renew online up to one year after expiration.
How can I check the estimated wait time at the NC DMV?
A new feature will soon be available on the NCDMV office locations page to show the public the estimated wait time at driver license offices.
Can I still walk in to the NC DMV without an appointment?
Yes, after noon, all customer services statewide will be provided on a walk-in basis. However, walk-in customers may still have the opportunity for morning-hour service if there is time between scheduled appointments or if a customer does not appear for a scheduled appointment.
How can I book an appointment with the NC DMV?
You can book an appointment with the NC DMV by visiting skiptheline.ncdot.gov.
Can I make an appointment with the NC DMV?
Yes, you can still make an appointment with the NC DMV, but appointments will only be available in the mornings through the 11 a.m. hour. After noon, all customer services statewide will be provided on a walk-in basis.
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