Where the Burlington DMV Office Is Located

The Division of Motor Vehicles office in Burlington is at 1318 South Church Street, Burlington, NC 27215. This is the only full-service DMV location in Alamance County. The office handles driver's license renewals, new license applications, vehicle registration, title transfers, and road tests.

The building is on South Church Street near downtown Burlington. If you are using GPS or a map app, enter the full address above — the street number matters because Church Street runs through the city. Street parking is available near the building, and there is a small parking lot adjacent to the office.

Hours and When to Go

The Burlington DMV is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays. Hours may change without notice, so call ahead at (336) 570-6700 before you go, especially if you are traveling from out of town.

The office typically has the shortest wait times early in the morning, between 8:00 and 9:30 a.m., and late in the afternoon after 4:00 p.m. Midday and early afternoon are usually the busiest times. If you have a road test scheduled, arrive at least 15 minutes early.

You do not need an appointment for most transactions at this office. However, road tests do require scheduling in advance. Call the office directly to book a test date and time.

Key Takeaways

  • The Burlington DMV is located at 1318 South Church Street and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Most transactions do not require an appointment, but road tests must be scheduled ahead of time by calling (336) 570-6700.
  • Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid longer wait times during midday hours.
  • Bring all required documents for your specific transaction, such as proof of residency, identification, and vehicle title or registration.

What Documents to Bring

The documents you need depend on what you are doing at the DMV. For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number or card. If you are renewing by mail or online instead, you may not need to visit the office at all — check the North Carolina DMV website first.

For a new driver's license or learner's permit, bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of North Carolina residency if you recently moved. For vehicle registration or title work, bring your current registration, the vehicle title, proof of residency, and a bill of sale if the vehicle is new to you.

If you are taking a road test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must pass a safety inspection — headlights, taillights, brakes, and windshield wipers must all work. Bring your Social Security card or number as well.

Services You Can Handle at This Location

The Burlington office handles the full range of DMV services. You can renew or replace a driver's license, obtain a new license if you are moving to North Carolina, or get a learner's permit. The office also administers written tests and road tests for driver's licenses.

For vehicles, you can register a new car, renew registration, transfer a title, get a duplicate title, or change your address on your registration. You can also handle commercial driver's license (CDL) transactions, though some CDL services may require a trip to a larger regional office — call ahead if you need CDL work done.

The office does not handle some specialized services, such as vanity plate design or certain commercial vehicle permits. If you need something not listed above, call the office to confirm they can help before you go.

Paying Fees and What It Costs

The Burlington DMV accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. Fees vary by transaction. A driver's license renewal costs around $20 to $30 depending on how long you renew it for. A new driver's license runs roughly $20 to $25. Vehicle registration renewal fees depend on your vehicle's weight and age — there is no single price.

The office can tell you the exact fee for your transaction when you call or when you arrive. If you are unsure whether you need to pay a fee or how much it will be, ask before you complete your transaction. Some services, such as address changes on an existing license, may be free.

If You Cannot Go in Person

North Carolina allows some DMV transactions to be handled online or by mail without visiting an office. Driver's license renewals can often be done online through the North Carolina DMV website if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions. Vehicle registration renewals can also be done online or by mail.

If you are moving to North Carolina from another state, you will likely need to visit the office in person for your first license or registration. However, check the North Carolina DMV website to see whether your specific situation qualifies for remote handling. Doing a transaction online or by mail takes longer than an in-person visit but saves you a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make an appointment to renew my driver's license?

No. Most transactions at the Burlington DMV do not require an appointment. You can walk in during business hours. However, if you are taking a road test, you must call (336) 570-6700 to schedule a test date and time in advance.

What if I lost my driver's license or it was stolen?

You can get a replacement at the Burlington office. Bring your proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. The replacement fee is typically $20 to $25. If you need a temporary license to drive while you wait, ask the staff when you arrive.

Can I register a vehicle I just bought at this office?

Yes. Bring the vehicle title, bill of sale, proof of residency, and proof of insurance. The office will register the vehicle and issue you a registration card and plate. Bring your Social Security number as well. The registration fee depends on the vehicle's weight and age.

How long does a road test take?

A road test typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. You will be tested on basic driving skills, parking, and knowledge of traffic laws. Arrive at least 15 minutes early with your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must have working headlights, taillights, brakes, and windshield wipers.

What if the office is closed when I need to go?

The Burlington office is closed on weekends and state holidays. If you need DMV services outside regular hours, you can handle some transactions online or by mail through the North Carolina DMV website. For urgent needs, call (336) 570-6700 to ask about options or nearby offices with extended hours.