NCDMV expands online driver license renewals to those without a REAL ID

ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. (WNCN) — A new law seeks to make driver license renewals easier for non-REAL ID holders in North Carolina, the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles said Tuesday.

According to the NCDMV, North Carolina drivers without a REAL ID may renew their license online for a second consecutive time.

The change in online renewals took effect with the passage of Senate Bill 245, which was signed into law on Sept. 30, according to the NCDMV.

The NCDMV said the change only applies to non-REAL ID driver licenses, not State ID cards.

In the next few weeks, according to the NCDMV, REAL ID holders are expected also to be allowed to renew their driver’s licenses a second consecutive time online if they have had a new picture taken in person since their last renewal.

According to the NCDMV, teenage drivers will be allowed to upgrade from the Level 2 Limited Provisional License (“before 9s”) to the Level 3 Full Provisional License online under the new law.

The NCDMV believes the new law could allow up to 400,000 more transactions to happen online.

“We encourage our customers to renew their driver license online if they’re eligible,” DMV Commissioner Paul Tine said in a statement. “It’s fast, easy, and helps reduce wait times at our offices. By choosing online services, you’re freeing up space for those who need in-person assistance.”