Your first NC license, permit or ID needs paperwork proving who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number or legal presence. First-time drivers also need printed proof of liability insurance.
First-time applicants must prove:
- Full name and date of birth
- NC residence address
- Social Security number, or legal presence in the U.S. if not eligible for one
- Vehicle liability insurance (driver license applicants)
Know the rule
DMV may copy or briefly hold your documents to verify them, and any altered document is refused.
Handbook p. 9 ↗Accepted proof of identity and age includes:
- Valid, unexpired U.S. passport
- Certified birth certificate (no plain photocopies, laminated copies or plastic replicas)
- Permanent Resident Card (I-551) or employment authorization document
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- Driver license or state ID, valid or expired less than 2 years
- Certified NC school transcript, diploma or GED
Know the rule
Driver Education Certificates, Driving Eligibility Certificates and report cards are not accepted as proof of identity.
Handbook p. 10 ↗Know the rule
A Social Security card must be the original: no photocopies and no laminated cards. A W-2, SSA-1099 or pay stub showing your full SSN also works.
Handbook p. 11 ↗Proof of NC residency
| Applicant | Documents needed |
|---|---|
| Adults 18+ | Two proofs (e.g., utility bill, lease, bank statement) |
| Minors under 18 | Two documents showing permanent NC address |
| REAL ID (Modernization Act) | Only one proof required |
Proof of insurance accepted (must show your name):
- Form DL-123 from your insurance agent
- Insurance policy with your name and expiration dates
- An insurance binder
- Insurance card with name, policy number, issue and expiration dates
Know the rule
Proof must be printed: digital proof on a mobile device is not accepted. Form DL-123, binders and certificates are valid only 30 days from issuance.
Handbook p. 13 ↗Who must show proof of liability insurance:
- Applicants for an original license, including out-of-state transfers
- Drivers whose license is restored after suspension or revocation
- Drivers awarded a Limited Driving Privilege by a court
Know the rule
If you don't own a registered vehicle or drive others' non-fleet cars, you sign exemption form DL-123A and are restricted to "Fleet Vehicles Only". Removing it costs a $16.75 duplicate fee plus proof of financial responsibility.
Handbook p. 13 ↗REAL ID
A license, permit or ID card with a star that meets federal ID rules for TSA and federal facilities. Non-REAL IDs say "NOT FOR FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION".
Handbook p. 14 ↗Know the rule
A REAL ID costs nothing extra, requires a visit to a driver license office, and has been issued since May 2017. Since May 7, 2025, non-REAL ID holders need extra documents to fly commercially or enter federal facilities.
Handbook p. 14 ↗Put it into practice
Your insurance agent emails you a DL-123 and you show it on your phone at the office. It won't be accepted: bring a printed copy, and make sure it's less than 30 days old.