MANY drivers would scramble to renew their license when they realize it’s on the verge of expiry.
But, a new law provides a degree of respite and extra flexibility for road users.
The measure, which became law on July 8, gives drivers with certain licenses a two-year window.
Licenses that expired on July 1 or after this date do not have to be renewed until 2027.
But, drivers have been warned that this privilege only applies to one state.
Licenses that have expired cannot be used as proof of identity at airports, for example.
The law came into force across North Carolina and will remain in place until December 31, 2027.
State officials revealed the motive behind the law is to reduce the pressure on DMV offices.
DMV offices across the US saw an influx of customers wanting to obtain a Real ID or upgrade licenses ahead of the May 7 deadline.
A Real ID is one example of proof travelers can show to security agents at the airports.
In North Carolina, Americans need a Class C license in order to drive a car.
Drivers must be at least 16 in order to obtain a license.
However, those with expired licenses must follow a strict set of rules.
The rule doesn’t apply to Americans whose licenses have been suspended or revoked.
Americans who want to rent a car or take out a bank loan have been urged to keep their licenses valid.
In North Carolina, drivers can renew their licenses online, in-person, by mail, or using self-service kiosks.
Licenses can be renewed six months before they are set to expire.
Driving laws taking effect August 1, 2025
Seven new traffic‑law measures taking effect on August 1, 2025:
- North Dakota drivers face a new speeding fine structure: the greater of a $20 minimum or $5 per mph over the limit, with extra penalties for exceeding by 16+ mph, alongside an increase in highway speed limits to 80 mph
- Florida now requires teenage drivers aged 15 and over to complete 50 hours of driver education, a four‑hour traffic-law and substance abuse course, vision/hearing tests, and parental consent before getting licensed
- In Louisiana, a new “clogged‑up” law penalizes drivers traveling even 1 mph under the speed limit in left lanes, with fines starting at $150, increasing to $250‑$350, and up to 30 days in jail for repeat violations
- North Carolina mandates ignition interlock devices for drivers convicted of DWI, so the vehicle won’t start if alcohol is detected by breath samples
- Louisiana also implements a hands‑free law banning handheld phone use while driving—fines reach $250 in school or construction zones
- Minnesota begins installing speed enforcement cameras in Minneapolis and Mendota Heights; repeat offenders face fines of $40 to $80, depending on speed over the limit
- In Newport, Oregon, police may now tow vehicles that have a single unpaid parking ticket older than 45 days or four unresolved citations
Drivers can renew their licenses by mail once during their lifetime if they are living outside North Carolina for more than 30 days.
Americans under 65 in the state must pay $52 to renew their license.
Those over the age of 66 must fork out $32.50 when renewing their license.
Officials have warned drivers that there are online fees when renewing licenses.
Meanwhile, other DMVs are urging Americans to renew their drivers licenses online.
Idaho officials explained renewing online can cut the amount of time a driver has to wait in a DMV office.
And, resources in DMVs can be prioritized to citizens who might not be able to renew licenses online.
Drivers in Delaware must renew their license in the six-month window before it expires.
A driving license in the state is valid for eight years.
The law applies to drivers in North Carolina[/caption]
