No More Long DMV Lines? New North Carolina Law Lets Drivers Renew Licenses Online

RALEIGH, N.C. — Waiting in long lines at the DMV could soon be a thing of the past for North Carolina drivers. Governor Josh Stein has signed Senate Bill 245, a sweeping new law that makes online driver’s license renewal and updates easier than ever — while also changing how teenagers earn their licenses.

The law, signed on September 30, allows residents to renew or update their driver’s licenses remotely — by mail, phone, or online — multiple times, as long as they meet eligibility requirements.

Previously, drivers were only allowed to renew online once before having to visit a DMV office in person.

“This law will enable more people to renew their driver’s license online, helping them avoid lines at DMV offices,” Gov. Stein said. “It will also strengthen the state’s ability to protect against cyber threats.”

Teens Can Now Skip the 12-Hour Driving Log

The law also includes new flexibility for young drivers. Sixteen- and seventeen-year-olds will no longer be required to complete a 12-hour driving log to obtain a full provisional license.

Teens can now upgrade their licenses remotely if they’ve held a limited provisional license for at least six months and maintain a clean driving record.

State officials say the change is designed to simplify the process for responsible young drivers while maintaining road safety standards.

$24 Million in Statewide Technology and Safety Upgrades

Alongside DMV modernization, Senate Bill 245 provides over $24 million in funding for technology, cybersecurity, and administrative improvements across multiple state agencies.

Key allocations include:

• $15 million to the Department of Information Technology for enhanced cybersecurity measures
• $5 million to the Administrative Office of the Courts to improve the eCourts system
• $3 million to the State Highway Patrol to hire 26 nonsworn administrative workers
• $1.4 million to the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) to hire up to 10 administrative staff

The funding takes effect July 1, 2025, while all driver’s license-related changes are effective immediately.

A Push Toward a Digital Future

The DMV expansion is part of a broader effort by Gov. Stein’s administration to make state services more accessible and efficient. By allowing repeated remote renewals, the state hopes to reduce in-person backlogs that have frustrated drivers for years.

The new system also comes with enhanced cybersecurity safeguards, ensuring personal data protection as more residents use online and mobile options.

“North Carolina is modernizing the way we serve people,” Stein said. “These improvements will make government more efficient, secure, and responsive to the public’s needs.”

Looking Ahead

The DMV is expected to roll out public awareness campaigns in the coming months to guide residents through the new renewal process and eligibility requirements.

Drivers can learn more about online renewals and license eligibility by visiting the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles website.

Residents who’ve experienced long DMV wait times are encouraged to share their thoughts on whether the new digital system meets expectations at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.