Skip to main content
Office of International Services

Driving and Cars

To obtain a license, learner’s permit, or an ID card in North Carolina, you will need to provide proof of your identity and your date of birth. You will also need to provide proof of your residence address and proof of either a Social Security Number (SSN) or documentation issued by the United States Government indicating legal presence (e.g. your I-20 or DS-2019, visa and I-94 card).

Please note: If you are a new international student, you cannot apply for a driver’s license until 10 days after you have completed the OIS Check-in process (and have provided our office with a valid local address in MyPack) 

  • Call the Department of Motor vehicles (DMV) to make an appointment for testing before you visit your nearest driver’s license office. This will minimize the time needed to complete your application. Be sure to cancel the appointment if it cannot be kept. Currently, you can also make appointments online.
  • Study the “Driver’s Handbook” thoroughly before taking the written examination.  You can view/print the driver handbook at www.ncdot.org/dmv or obtain a copy at OIS.
  • Your driver’s license fee can be paid in cash, personal check, or money order. Credit cards and debit cards are also accepted for payment at the driver’s license office. Details for payment methods can be found here.
  • Obtain form DL-123 “Driver License Liability Insurance Certification” or other acceptable proof of liability insurance coverage prior to visiting the driver’s license office. You must present this proof to the license examiner to obtain a license. Your insurance company must be licensed to do business in North Carolina.
  • You will be required to provide a vehicle if taking the driving skills test. Your vehicle inspection sticker and license tag must be valid. Insure that your brake lights, turn signals, and horn are operational.

If you are thinking about buying a used car, please review this important information from University Legal Services prior to purchasing a vehicle.

DMV Office Locations Near NC State

Address: 4121 New Bern Avenue, Suite 151 27616
Phone: (919) 468-0319
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Address: 2431 Spring Forest Road, Unit 101 27615
Phone: (919) 855-6877
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-5pm

Address: 3231 Avent Ferry Road 27606
Phone: (919) 816-9128
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-5pm

Address: 1387 SE Maynard Road 27511
Phone: (919) 468-0319
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-5pm