House Bill 218 requires the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles to add an optional request for emergency contact information on driver’s license, learner’s permit, and identification card applications. It also requires renewal applications to include an optional request for updated emergency contact information. The bill does not make providing this information mandatory; applicants may choose whether to supply it.
The measure amends G.S. 20-7, the statute governing issuance and renewal of driver’s licenses, by adding emergency contact information to the list of information the DMV may request on its application forms. The bill takes effect October 1, 2026, and applies only to applications submitted on or after that date. In practical terms, it would change DMV forms and procedures rather than impose new licensing eligibility requirements or fees.
Impact
The bill would modify North Carolina’s motor vehicle licensing law by directing the DMV to request, but not require, emergency contact information on initial and renewal applications. It affects the application process under G.S. 20-7 and would require administrative updates to DMV forms and systems beginning October 1, 2026. The bill does not alter who may obtain a license, permit, or identification card, and it does not create a new enforcement mechanism or penalty.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests broad support for the bill: it passed second reading in the House 113-0. No committee transcripts are available, but the unanimous vote indicates the proposal was viewed favorably and as noncontroversial. The optional nature of the information request likely contributed to the positive reception.
Contention
There is little visible contention in the available record. The main policy choice is whether the DMV should ask for emergency contact information at all, and the bill resolves that by making the request optional rather than mandatory. Any concerns would likely center on privacy, data collection, or administrative burden, but the text and vote history do not show organized opposition or significant debate.
Increases the role of the DMV in the voter registration and address verification process, by establishing very specific obligations and responsibilities that must be followed before offering an individual an application to register to vote.
Increases the role of the DMV in the voter registration and address verification process, by establishing very specific obligations and responsibilities that must be followed before offering an individual an application to register to vote.
Increases the role of the DMV in the voter registration and address verification process, by establishing very specific obligations and responsibilities that must be followed before offering an individual an application to register to vote.
Provides for licensure of emergency medical responders and emergency medical technicians and certification of mobility assistance vehicle operators; revises requirements for delivery of emergency medical and patient transportation services.
Provides for licensure of emergency medical responders and emergency medical technicians and certification of mobility assistance vehicle operators; revises requirements for delivery of emergency medical and patient transportation services.
Defines suitable person and establishes reasons for applying for carry permit, establishes what information is required on applications, establishes appeal process if application denied and provides that records are not public.