A trip to the North Carolina DMV can become frustrating when you arrive without the required documents. NCDMV now allows customers to securely upload certain insurance and residency documents from their phones while they are at a driver license office.
However, digital uploading does not apply to every document. Original or certified physical documents are still required for many identity-related items.
Here is what to know before your visit.
Documents That May Be Uploaded From Your Phone
While you are at the counter, NCDMV may allow you to securely upload eligible documents directly from your phone.
Examples include:
- Proof of North Carolina liability insurance
- Insurance cards or policy documents
- Phone, utility or cable bills
- Bank or other financial statements
- Lease or housing agreements
- Other approved documents proving North Carolina residency
Paper copies of eligible insurance and residency documents are still accepted.
The secure upload is completed during your office visit. Simply showing an employee a photograph on your phone may not meet the requirement. NCDMV’s document-upload tool is available at driver license offices across the state.
Finding Your Insurance Documents
Many insurance carriers provide mobile apps or online customer accounts where policyholders may be able to access:
- Digital insurance ID cards
- Policy documents
- Billing and payment information
- Claims services
- Other account-management features
Access mobile apps from participating Middle Creek Insurance carrier partners in one convenient location:
View Available Insurance Carrier Apps
App availability and features vary by insurance carrier and policy.
Documents You Should Bring in Physical Form
NCDMV customers should continue to bring original identity documents, including items such as:
- An original or certified birth certificate
- A valid, unexpired passport
- A Social Security card or another approved Social Security document
- Immigration or lawful-status documents
- Certified marriage, divorce or court records used to verify a legal name change
NCDMV does not accept ordinary photocopies or altered documents as proof of identity. Birth certificates must be original or certified copies, and digital versions of passports are not accepted.
Applying for a North Carolina REAL ID?
A North Carolina REAL ID generally requires:
- One document proving identity and date of birth
- One document showing your full Social Security number
- Two documents showing your current North Carolina physical address
- Proof of North Carolina liability insurance when applying for a REAL ID driver license
- Legal name-change documents, when applicable
- Proof of lawful status for non-U.S. citizens
Proof of liability insurance is required for a REAL ID driver license but not for a REAL ID identification card. It is also not required for a learner’s permit.
Before visiting an office, use NCDMV’s official tool to create a personalized list of the documents you will need:
Open the NCDMV REAL ID Document Wizard
Plan Your NCDMV Visit
Before leaving home:
- Confirm which documents your transaction requires.
- Download eligible insurance or residency documents to your phone.
- Bring original or certified identity documents.
- Use the REAL ID Document Wizard when applying for a REAL ID.
- Make sure you are visiting the correct type of NCDMV office.
Middle Creek Insurance has created a directory to help you locate nearby driver license offices and registration plate agencies:
Find a North Carolina Driver License Office
Driver licenses, identification cards and REAL ID services are handled at driver license offices. Vehicle titles, registrations and license plates are generally handled at registration plate agencies.
Need Help Finding Proof of Insurance?
Middle Creek Insurance customers who need help locating an insurance card, accessing a carrier’s app or requesting qualifying proof of coverage can contact our office.
Middle Creek Insurance
9704 Fayetteville Road
Raleigh, NC 27603
Phone: (919) 524-2149
Website: MiddleCreekIns.com
This article is provided for general informational purposes. NCDMV document requirements can vary depending on the applicant and transaction. Confirm current requirements with NCDMV before visiting an office.
