What the Concord DMV Office Handles

The Concord DMV office is a full-service location run by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles. It handles driver's license renewals, replacements, and new applications; vehicle registration and title work; and address changes for both licenses and registrations. You can also take your written and road tests there if you are seeking a learner's permit or upgrading your license class.

This office does not handle commercial driver's license (CDL) testing — those appointments go through a separate CDL testing program and are scheduled differently. For CDL services, you will need to contact the state's CDL program directly or visit a designated CDL testing site.

Key Takeaways

  • The Concord DMV office is located at 1135 Lakewood Drive and handles standard driver's license, vehicle registration, and title services.
  • You can renew your license in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation, but some transactions require an in-person visit.
  • Road tests and written tests for new drivers are offered at this location, but you must schedule an appointment in advance.
  • Wait times vary by day and time of day; early morning visits on weekdays typically have shorter lines than afternoons or Saturdays.

Location, Hours, and How to Schedule an Appointment

The Concord DMV office is located at 1135 Lakewood Drive, Concord, NC 28025. Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Hours may change seasonally or for holidays, so check the North Carolina DMV website before you go.

You can schedule an appointment online through the North Carolina DMV website or by calling the office directly. Appointments are strongly recommended for road tests and written tests, and they can reduce your wait time for other services as well. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait longer during peak hours.

If you need to reach the Concord office by phone, call the main North Carolina DMV customer service line and ask to be transferred to the Concord location, or look for the direct number on the DMV website's office locator.

Documents You Need for Common Transactions

For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your license has expired more than three years ago, you may need to take a written test and provide additional documents.

For a new vehicle registration or title transfer, bring the vehicle's current title or bill of sale, proof of insurance, a completed process form (available at the office or online), and proof of residency. If you are registering a vehicle purchased out of state, bring the out-of-state title and any lien information.

For a road test, bring your learner's permit, proof of residency, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be in safe working condition and display valid license plates. For a written test, bring your learner's permit or ID and proof of residency.

Road Tests and Written Tests at the Concord Location

Road tests at the Concord DMV office are scheduled by appointment only. You must hold a valid learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can test, and you must be at least 16 years old. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, traffic law knowledge, and safe driving practices.

Written tests for learner's permits and license upgrades are also offered at this location. You can schedule a written test appointment online or by phone. The test covers North Carolina traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules. You will receive your results when ready after completing the test.

If you fail either test, you can retake it after a waiting period. The office staff can tell you the current waiting period and help you schedule your next attempt when you receive your results.

Renewing Your License Without Going to the Office

North Carolina allows online and mail renewals for many drivers, which means you may not need to visit the Concord office at all. You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions that require in-person review, and you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal.

Mail renewal is also an option for may be able to access drivers. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires; follow the instructions on that notice to renew by mail. The process takes about two weeks from the time the DMV receives your process.

If you do not meet the requirements for online or mail renewal, you must visit the Concord office in person. This includes situations where your license has been expired for more than three years, you need a new photo, or you have changed your address.

Address Changes for Your License and Vehicle Registration

You can change your address on your driver's license and vehicle registration at the Concord DMV office. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your vehicle registration if you are updating that as well.

North Carolina requires you to update your address within 30 days of moving. You can also change your address online through the DMV website for your driver's license if you meet certain conditions, or by mail. The in-person option at the Concord office is fastest if you need both your license and registration updated at the same time.

Wait Times and Tips for a Faster Visit

Wait times at the Concord DMV office vary depending on the day of the week and time of day. Early morning visits on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, typically have the shortest lines. Avoid Mondays and Fridays if possible, as these days tend to be busier. Saturday mornings can also be crowded because the office closes at 1:00 p.m.

Scheduling an appointment in advance is the most reliable way to reduce your wait time. If you must walk in, arrive as early as possible when the office opens. Bring all required documents with you so you do not have to make a second trip. Having your documents organized and ready before you reach the counter will also speed up the process.

If you are renewing your license or registration and you are not changing your address or photo, consider using the online or mail options instead. These routes avoid the office entirely and take only a few minutes of your time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license at the Concord office if it expired more than a year ago?

Yes, but you will need to visit in person and may need to take a written test depending on how long it has been expired. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The office staff can tell you whether a test is required when you arrive.

Do I need an appointment for a road test at the Concord DMV?

Appointments are strongly recommended and can be scheduled online or by phone. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait several hours during busy times. Road tests are offered Monday through Saturday during regular office hours.

What if I need to register a vehicle but I do not have the title yet?

You can register with a bill of sale if the title has not arrived from the previous owner or the out-of-state DMV. Bring the bill of sale, proof of insurance, and proof of residency. The Concord office can explain the temporary registration process and what documents you will need to provide later.

Can I change my address online instead of visiting the Concord office?

You can change your driver's license address online if you meet certain conditions, such as having a current license and no recent name changes. Vehicle registration address changes typically require an in-person visit or mail submission. Check the North Carolina DMV website to see which option works for your situation.

What should I bring if I am taking my road test at the Concord location?

Bring your learner's permit, proof of residency, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be in safe working condition with valid license plates and working lights, wipers, and brakes. Arrive at least 10 minutes early for your appointment.