Tracy Barnes/Staff Correspondent Jamie Farley of Farley Insurance in Murphy helps new residents navigate obtaining a North Carolina driver’s license, which is needed first in order to get insured.
Andrews – If you’re a new Cherokee County resident needing a North Carolina driver’s license or REAL ID, you may want to schedule an appointment immediately, if not sooner.
The same goes for new drivers as well as those getting a commercial driver’s license. That’s because unless you snag a cancellation, the soonest you can secure an appointment at the N.C. Department of Motor Vehicles Driver License Office is February 2022, according to officials at the local office.
While services such as license renewals can be completed online, others require a visit. If you must smile for the camera or take an exam, plan on bringing lots of patience along with your required documents.
You may have to wait, even with an appointment time. There is an option to walk in, but only after 1 p.m., when the office reopens after lunch.
Those taking their chances – many driving from other counties – encounter a long line before reaching the signup sheet. And if your signature lands on page 3 of that day’s clipboard, you probably won’t get in before closing time.
With just two employees on hand, one of whom is still training and not yet a certified examiner, the local DMV office sees a high volume of traffic.
“It’s really important to remember that everybody is doing the best they can,” said Jamie Farley, co-owner of Farley Insurance.
She has heard some wild stories from frustrated clients. One, a 67-year-old transplant, was turned away because her Florida license expired while she awaited her appointment.
Farley’s advice to new residents is to keep everything current from your previous state – including your driver’s license, registration and liability insurance – until after you obtain a North Carolina license.
Next, get insurance. In most cases it will go into effect the same day, and you can cancel your old policy. Only then, with a North Carolina license and proof of insurance in hand, can you title a vehicle.
For individuals getting a commercial driver’s license, delays are not just annoying but can mean a loss of income. Cherokee County Transit coordinator Lisa Stroud has seen it firsthand when applicants for driver jobs didn’t yet have their CDL. And since Saturday hours at all state DMV locations are discontinued, those with Monday through Friday jobs might have to miss work, regardless of the credential they need.
Some locals are driving to DMV locations in Asheville or Hendersonville. Others with appointments in Andrews try walking in instead to get their license sooner.
Farley recommends making an appointment online, while continuing to visit the DMV website early each morning to check for cancellations. Business hours, required documents and appointment openings can be found at ncdot.gov/dmv.
If you’re in need of a brick-and-mortar DMV visit, Farley has a final piece of advice.
“Just hope and pray and bring enough money,” she said, before reminding, “And don’t forget your documentation.”