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The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) announced on April 30 that Paul Tine will be the new commissioner of the Division of Motor Vehicles. His first day was May 6, 2025.

“As a long-time business owner and a former member of the General Assembly, Paul knows how to get things done and move at the speed of business,” said Governor Josh Stein, “He is the right person for this job, and I have charged him with urgently identifying ways to make the DMV work better for North Carolinians.”

“At some point, every North Carolinian relies on the DMV—whether it’s to get a driver’s license, renew a plate, or handle other essential services. The people of this state deserve a DMV they can count on, and I’m confident that under Paul’s leadership, we’ll continue to improve the experience for all. His unique perspective and commitment to service will be invaluable as we move forward,” said Department of Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins.

“I am very excited to begin work as the next Commissioner of North Carolina’s Division of Motor Vehicles,” said Tine. “There is no shortage of challenges facing our division, and it is critical that we get to work quickly to reduce wait times, make our website more user friendly, and empower our frontline staff to ensure the highest level of service to our citizens.”

Tine is the owner of Midgett Insurance Agency. He previously served two terms in the North Carolina House of Representatives, representing Dare, Hyde, Washington and half of Beaufort counties. During his time in the General Assembly, Tine served as co-chair of Transportation Appropriations and served on the Joint Transportation Oversight Committee. He also served on the Board of Trustees of Elizabeth City State University.

“Commissioner Tine will work to improve North Carolinians’ experience with the DMV by addressing wait times, staffing challenges, and customer satisfaction. Governor Stein’s budget includes funding for 61 new Driver License Examiners to ensure every workstation is filled and 24 new positions to staff new and expanded Driver License Offices,” stated the announcement from NCDOT.

With TSA beginning to check REAL IDs on May 7, 2025, Tine is encouraging North Carolinians to be informed about requirements for air travel:

• Unless you have upcoming air travel, there is no need to rush to the DMV.
• DMV will continue to issue REAL IDs after May 7, 2025.
• Passports, military IDs and global entry cards are all acceptable substitutes for a REAL ID.
• If you do not have any of the above forms of ID, plan to arrive at the airport early for additional screening. You will still be able to travel.

To learn more about REAL ID requirements and guidance, go to NCREALID.gov.

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