North Carolina Extends Driver’s License Renewal Period by Two Years to Address DMV Backlog

RALEIGH, N.C. – In a move to alleviate the mounting frustrations caused by long wait times and appointment shortages at Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices, North Carolina drivers now have an additional two years to renew their Class C driver’s licenses. Senate Bill 391, signed into law by Governor Josh Stein on July 1, 2025, introduces a temporary moratorium on license expirations, allowing expired licenses to remain valid for driving purposes within the state for up to two years past their expiration date.

The legislation comes as a response to significant backlogs at DMV offices across North Carolina, driven by increased demand for services like Real ID applications and a growing population that has outpaced staffing levels. According to state officials, the DMV has struggled to keep up with appointment requests, with some residents reporting wait times stretching several weeks or even months. “This bill provides much-needed relief for drivers who are struggling to renew their licenses due to the DMV’s backlog,” said Representative Jay Adams, a Republican from Catawba County and a key sponsor of the legislation. “It also gives the DMV time to improve its operations and better serve the public.”

Under the new law, drivers with standard Class C licenses—covering most personal vehicles—can legally drive in North Carolina without facing penalties for an expired license during the two-year grace period. However, there’s a catch: the extension applies only within state borders. “If you’re driving in South Carolina, Tennessee, or Virginia with an expired license, you could still face issues,” Adams noted, urging drivers to renew their licenses as soon as possible despite the grace period.

The DMV has faced ongoing challenges, including staffing shortages and a surge in Real ID applications as federal regulations approach. To address these issues, the agency has implemented operational changes, such as allowing walk-in customers all day at 82 of its 115 driver’s license offices and opening select locations on Saturdays for walk-in appointments. These measures aim to reduce wait times and improve customer experience, particularly during peak summer months.

While the two-year extension offers temporary relief, it does not apply to Real ID credentials, which are required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities. Drivers needing a Real ID are encouraged to schedule appointments early to meet federal deadlines. Additionally, the extension is seen as a stopgap measure while the DMV works to hire more staff and streamline services, including expanding online renewal options through the state’s PayIt system, which allows eligible drivers to renew licenses every other cycle without an in-person visit.

North Carolina residents have expressed mixed reactions to the news. “It’s a relief to know I won’t get a ticket for an expired license, but I still want to get my renewal done,” said Coleen Ross, a Greenville resident. Others, like X user @prcalloway, voiced frustration over the lack of available appointments, highlighting the urgency of the DMV’s challenges.

State lawmakers and DMV officials hope the extension, combined with ongoing improvements, will ease the burden on both drivers and the agency. “This is about giving law-abiding drivers a break while we work to fix the system,” Adams said. As the DMV continues to modernize, including plans to add 61 new full-time positions, North Carolinians are encouraged to stay proactive about renewals to avoid complications, especially when traveling out of state.