The Reidsville DMV location and what it handles

The Reidsville DMV office is located at 516 South Scales Street in Reidsville, North Carolina. This is a full-service office, meaning you can handle driver's license renewals, replacements, and initial issuances here, along with vehicle registration, title work, and road tests. It is not a satellite office with limited services — most transactions the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles offers can be completed at this location.

The office serves Rockingham County and surrounding areas. If you live in or near Reidsville, this is typically your closest option, though some residents in the county's outer edges may find the Greensboro DMV more convenient depending on where you live and what you need to do.

Key Takeaways

  • The Reidsville DMV is at 516 South Scales Street and handles full-service transactions including licenses, registrations, titles, and road tests.
  • Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Road test appointments book up quickly, so call (336) 349-6100 in advance if you need to schedule one.
  • Mid-week mornings typically have shorter waits than Friday afternoons or late-day visits.
  • Bring all required documents before you arrive — having everything ready will reduce your time in line.

Hours and how to plan your visit

The Reidsville DMV is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays. These hours are consistent year-round, though it is worth calling ahead at (336) 349-6100 to confirm if you are planning a trip during a holiday week.

Wait times at Reidsville are typically shorter than at larger urban DMV offices, but they still vary by day and time. Mid-morning on a Tuesday or Wednesday is usually faster than late afternoon or Friday. If you need a road test, arrive early — road test slots fill quickly and are often booked out several days in advance.

You do not need an appointment for most transactions at the Reidsville office, but you can call ahead to ask about current wait times or to reserve a road test slot. Having your documents ready before you arrive — even if you do not have an appointment — will move you through the line faster.

Documents you will 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 the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your license is expired by more than five years, you may need to take a written test and vision test in addition to providing these documents. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

For a new driver's license (if you have never had one or are moving to North Carolina), bring proof of identity (passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), proof of residency, and proof of your North Carolina address. You will also take a written test, vision test, and road test. The road test must be scheduled in advance.

For vehicle registration or title work, bring your current registration, proof of ownership (title, bill of sale, or manufacturer's certificate), proof of insurance, and a photo ID. If the vehicle is financed, bring the lien holder's information. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time in North Carolina, bring the out-of-state title or bill of sale and proof that the vehicle has passed inspection.

For a road test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be registered, have valid tags, and pass a safety inspection (working lights, brakes, wipers, and horn). Bring the keys and be prepared to show the examiner the vehicle's registration and insurance.

What to expect during your visit

When you arrive at the Reidsville office, check in at the front desk and take a number. You will wait in the main area until your number is called. Most transactions take 10 to 20 minutes once you reach a window, though road tests and complex title work can take longer. If you are taking a road test, you will be called separately and taken to a vehicle for the exam, which lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.

Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card at the Reidsville office. Fees vary by transaction — a license renewal costs less than a new license, and registration fees depend on your vehicle's weight and type. The office staff can tell you the exact fee when you check in, or you can find fee schedules on the North Carolina DMV website before you arrive.

If you fail a road test, you can schedule another attempt, though there may be a waiting period. The examiner will tell you what you need to work on before your next test. You do not have to retake the written or vision test unless your learner's permit expires.

Parking and accessibility

The Reidsville DMV office has a parking lot with spaces available for general use and designated accessible parking for people with disabilities. The building is accessible to people using wheelchairs or mobility devices, with an accessible entrance and restrooms.

If you need information during your visit, let the staff know when you check in. The office is designed to accommodate people with different mobility needs, and staff can direct you to the appropriate services or windows for your transaction.

If you cannot visit in person

Some transactions can be handled by mail or online through the North Carolina DMV website. License renewals for people under 65 can often be renewed online if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address. Vehicle registration renewals can be renewed online or by mail. You can also renew your registration at certain third-party vendors in Rockingham County, though the Reidsville office is the most direct option.

If you need to replace a lost or stolen license or registration, you must visit the office in person. The same applies if you are changing your address, name, or other information on your license or registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my road test at the Reidsville DMV?

Yes. Road tests are given at the Reidsville office, but you must schedule an appointment in advance by calling (336) 349-6100. Slots fill quickly, especially in spring and summer, so call as soon as you are ready to test.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

Proof of residency must be a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and North Carolina address — typically a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. If you do not have one, contact the Reidsville office to ask what alternatives they will accept. Some documents, like a mortgage statement or insurance bill, may work depending on the situation.

Do I need to bring my vehicle to renew my registration?

No. You can renew your registration by mail, online, or in person at the office without bringing your vehicle. You only need the vehicle present if you are registering it for the first time or if it needs a safety inspection.

How long does a road test take?

The actual driving portion takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Add time for waiting, checking in, and the examiner reviewing your paperwork. Plan for one to two hours total from arrival to completion.

What happens if I fail my road test?

You can schedule another test, usually within a few days or weeks depending on availability. The examiner will tell you what you need to improve. You do not retake the written or vision test unless your learner's permit has expired.