DMV wait times down 87% in North Carolina, Gov. Stein says

Governor Josh Stein is encouraging residents to take advantage of new tools and services designed to reduce wait times and, in some cases, eliminate the need for an office visit altogether.

According to the governor's office, average wait times at North Carolina driver license offices have dropped 87% since spring 2025 and now average about 23 minutes. 

The improvements come as the DMV enters one of its busiest times of the year, with families preparing for summer travel, teen drivers seeking permits and licenses, and residents rushing to obtain REAL IDs ahead of federal enforcement deadlines.

"We've been working hard to improve the customer experience," Stein said in a message released by his office this month.

State leaders point to a combination of technology upgrades, expanded online services and additional staffing as key reasons for the improvement.

One of the biggest changes is the return of live wait times online. Drivers can now see how busy nearby offices are before leaving home and choose the location with the shortest wait.

The DMV has also expanded its virtual queue system. Customers can check in, provide a phone number and wait elsewhere until they're called, similar to a restaurant waitlist.

In addition, customers can now upload certain documents electronically before arriving for their appointment, including proof of insurance and proof of address. However, federal regulations still require original identity documents to be presented in person for services such as obtaining a REAL ID.

The state has also hired dozens of new driver license examiners and plans to open additional offices in Fuquay-Varina, Cabarrus County and Fort Bragg to help meet demand.

How to save time at the DMV:

- Check live wait times online before leaving home.

- Join a virtual queue when available and wait elsewhere until you're called.

- Upload eligible documents in advance.

- Bring original identity documents if you're applying for a REAL ID.

- Consider visiting a different office if your nearest location has a long wait.

- Check whether your transaction can be completed online instead. According to state officials, more than 250,000 customers have already used expanded online services that previously required an in-person visit.