Driver’s License for Non-Citizens in North Carolina

1. What are the requirements to obtain an instruction permit for driving in North Carolina?


To obtain an instruction permit for driving in North Carolina, applicants must be at least 15 years old, provide proof of identity, provide proof of residence in the state, and provide a Social Security number. They must also pass a vision test and a written knowledge test, as well as a road sign recognition test. Applicants must be accompanied by a supervising licensed driver 21 years or older when they are driving with their permit.

2. Can non-U.S. citizens obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina. However, they must meet certain criteria and provide certain documents in order to be eligible. The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles accepts valid foreign passports with valid visas or I-94 cards as proof of legal presence for non-U.S. citizens.

3. What documents are needed to apply for a provisional driver’s license in North Carolina?


In order to apply for a provisional driver’s license in North Carolina, you will need to provide proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or valid passport. You will also need to provide proof of residency, such as two documents showing your current address, such as a utility bill or bank statement. You will also need to provide proof of completion of the appropriate driver’s education course and have your parents or legal guardians sign the application form if you are under 18. Finally, you will need to pass the written and road tests administered by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles in order to receive your provisional driver’s license.

4. Is a Social Security Number required to obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina?


No, a Social Security Number is not required to obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina. However, applicants will be asked to provide a valid form of identification (such as a passport or birth certificate) in order to verify their identity and age.

5. What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in North Carolina?


The minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in North Carolina is 16 years old.

6. Are there any restrictions on non-citizens obtaining commercial vehicle driver’s licenses in North Carolina?


Yes. Non-citizens may obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in North Carolina, but they must present proof of legal presence and proof of identity as required by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles. Additionally, they must have either a valid U.S. Social Security Number or an I-94 number and be able to produce evidence of their legal U.S. residence status. Non-citizens must also pass the necessary knowledge and skills tests to receive a CDL.

7. What are the restrictions for non-U.S. citizens driving with a foreign-issued driver’s license in North Carolina?


Non-U.S. citizens with a foreign-issued driver’s license may drive in North Carolina as long as the license is valid, in the individual’s native language, and contains a photograph of the individual. In addition, the driver must also be at least 16 years of age and possess a valid passport or other documentation showing their legal presence in the United States. Non-US citizens may drive with a foreign issued driver’s license for a maximum of one year in North Carolina before having to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license.

8. What type of proof of identity is needed to get a driver’s license in North Carolina?


In order to get a driver’s license in North Carolina, you will need to provide two forms of identification. These can include a valid passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, and/or a valid unexpired US-issued military ID. You must also provide proof of residence such as a recent utility bill or bank statement with your name and address.

9. How long do non-citizens need to be residents of North Carolina before being able to apply for a driver’s license?


Non-citizens need to have been residents of North Carolina for at least 30 days before they can apply for a driver’s license.

10. Are there any additional requirements for non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in North Carolina?


Yes. Non-citizens need to provide proof of legal presence in the United States in order to obtain or renew a driver’s license. Acceptable documents include a valid visa, permanent residence card, employment authorization card, or an approved asylum status.

11. Which type of tests are required to be taken by non-citizens to obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina?


Non-citizens seeking a driver’s license in North Carolina must pass a vision test, driver’s license knowledge test, and a road test. Proof of identity, social security number, and residency is also required.

12. Do non-U.S. citizens need to provide proof of residency for obtaining a driver’s license in North Carolina?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens do need to provide proof of residency for obtaining a driver’s license in North Carolina. This includes documents such as a valid visa, passport, and proof of address.

13. Is there an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in North Carolina?


No, there is no additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in North Carolina. The same fees apply to all applicants.

14. Is it possible for non-U.S. citizens to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in North Carolina?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in North Carolina. The process involves obtaining a North Carolina driver’s license or identification card from the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. Applicants must bring their valid foreign driver’s license, current passport and documentation of legal presence in the United States. The DMV may also require a Social Security number and documentation of residency in North Carolina.

15. What do non-citizens need to bring with them to the DMV when applying for a driver’s license in North Carolina?


Non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in North Carolina need to bring proof of identity and lawful presence in the United States, such as a valid passport or immigration documents. They also need to provide proof of North Carolina residency such as a utility bill or bank statement. They will also need to pass the vision and knowledge tests, provide a valid Social Security Number, and pay the applicable fees.

16. How much does it cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina?


The cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in North Carolina is the same as the cost for a citizen: $13.00 for a 4-year license, $19.00 for an 8-year license, and $25.50 for a 10-year license.

17. Are there any special laws that apply to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in North Carolina?


Yes. According to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, a nonresident homeowner may use a valid driver’s license from another country to operate a motor vehicle in North Carolina for up to one year, provided they possess a valid visa and an International Driving Permit (IDP). After one year, they must apply for a North Carolina driver’s license. Failure to comply could result in a fine or other penalties.

18. Can non-citizens obtain an international driving permit while residing in North Carolina?


No, non-citizens cannot obtain an international driving permit while residing in North Carolina. International driving permits can only be issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).

19. Does North Carolina recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes?


No, North Carolina does not recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes. Applicants for a North Carolina driver’s license must provide valid documents from the list of Acceptable Forms of Identification.

20. Are there any special requirements for renewing a non-citizen’s driver’s license in North Carolina?


Yes. Non-citizens must provide proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of legal presence in order to renew a driver’s license in North Carolina. Accepted proof of legal presence includes a valid visa, Permanent Resident Card, or Employment Authorization Card, among others. For more information and a full list of accepted documents, please visit the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles website.