Governor Josh Stein attended a graduation ceremony in Rocky Mount for 149 new North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) Driver License Examiners, marking the largest class to complete the agency’s training program. The graduates finished the Driver License Examiner Basic School and will serve drivers across the state.
“Hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians visit the DMV each year, and they deserve a fast and easy experience so they can get on with their day,” Governor Stein said. “I’m proud of today’s graduates, grateful for their willingness to serve our people, and determined to keep pushing forward so that every North Carolinian can count on a faster, more efficient DMV.”
DMV Commissioner Paul Tine commented on the impact of these new examiners. “These graduates will bring significant value to DMV offices across the state of North Carolina,” he said. “Every new examiner means shorter lines, quicker service, and a better experience for customers. We still have work to do, but I’m proud of the progress we’re making to improve every part of the DMV.”
The NCDMV recently addressed a six-month backlog in training by conducting several seven-week classes at its basic school. In August, House Bill 125 was signed into law by Governor Stein. This legislation provided funding for additional examiner positions at the DMV, resulting in 64 new roles that have now been filled.
In September, Governor Stein also signed House Bill 245, which expanded online driver’s license renewal options for residents. Over a nine-week period following this change, nearly 80,000 licenses were renewed online—a development intended to help decrease wait times at physical DMV locations.
Statewide staffing levels have improved as well; currently fewer than five percent of 632 available positions remain vacant within the department.
For further information about ongoing modernization efforts at NCDMV, details are available in its five-year strategic plan and updated staffing plan.