RALEIGH, N.C. – Starting Wednesday, people who qualify can get their North Carolina driver’s license without a road test.
The waiver is allowed under new emergency administrative rules that state “during a pandemic where an executive order is in place, the requirement of a road test may be waived if previous driver training and/or safe driving records can be established.”
The continued impact of COVID-19 makes the time frame for resuming road tests unknown.
The waiver will be available to drivers who need a regular Class C license and meet at least one of these conditions:
• Currently hold a Level I permit, are at least 18 years old, and meet all requirements to obtain the Level II Limited Provisional License including not being convicted of a motor vehicle moving violation, seat belt infraction or unlawful use of a mobile phone.
• Have received training and passed a driving course from a certified N.C. driving school approved by the division within the previous 12 months and have not been convicted of a motor vehicle moving violation, seat belt infraction, or unlawful use of a mobile phone.
• Previously held an N.C. driver’s license that has not been expired more than one renewal cycle and was in good standing at the time of expiration.
o For drivers who are 18-65 years old – not expired more than eight years.
o For drivers who are 66 or older – not expired more than five years.
• Are from any other state, district, or territory that has N.C. license reciprocity. They must provide their most recent license and a certified five-year driving record.
Drivers who qualify for the waiver will be issued a license of the appropriate for eight or five years, depends on their age.
These drivers must have an appointment at a license office. On the website, select “Driver License – First Time” as the appointment type, then pick an office and choose a date and time.
At the appointment, drivers must present all of the required documentation for a new driver as described on the New Drivers page.
Per the governor’s executive order, all customers must wear a facial covering or mask and are also subject to pre-screening health questions.
“The division has been very thoughtful in protecting the health of our customers and examiners and ensuring the safety of the driving public,” said NCDMV Commissioner Torre Jessup. “With the uncertainty of when road tests can safely resume, we are taking this step to help qualified drivers gain the license they need for jobs, school, and their families.”
Waivers under this special provision do not apply to drivers governed by Legal Presence, Lawful Status, or drivers in the Medical Review program.
This waiver will remain in place until DMV resumes road tests, most likely when the state reaches Phase 3 of its re-opening.