I'm relocating from NC to D.C. for 7-12 months, tops. Do I need to obtain a D.C. driver's license?

Question

I'd like to maintain my North Carolina license and registration, since I intend to come back to NC soon (and would like to avoid the high re-licensing and re-registration fees), but the D.C. DMV website seems to indicate that if you are there for more than 30 days, you have to obtain a D.C. license. I'm not a diplomat or student, and I will be there longer than 6 months. Are there any other "loopholes" I'm missing?

Answer 1

If you're working, you'll need to get a license and registration.  

If you're just visiting, then you are not becoming a resident and you may be able to get away with it, depending on their rules.

Answer 2

Nope. If you are going to be there more than 30 you have to do it. If you receive a ticket for not changing your drivers license & vehicle registration you will have that to pay plus the fees for your drivers license & vehicle registration. I don't believe you will have to take a driving test. I believe they will trade your NC drivers license for the DC license.