NORTH CAROLINA DMV TEST - FAQ

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

What is the age requirement to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license?

You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a NC driver’s license. You must be at least 15 years old to obtain a NC Limited Learner Permit or Provisional License.

Who needs a North Carolina driver’s license?

Everyone who operates a motor vehicle on streets and highways in North Carolina.

Do I need to pass any test to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license or permit?

Yes. You must pass the vision, knowledge, traffic signs and road tests.

Can I wear my contact lenses or corrective glasses during the vision test?

Yes. You will need to wear your corrective lenses every time you drive, and this restriction will be indicated on your driver license.

GRADUATE LICENSING

I am younger than 18 years of age, can I apply for a NC driver’s license?

If you are at least 15 years old but younger than 18 years of age, you can enter the Graduated Licensing Program and apply for a Limited Learner Permit or a Provisional License.

I am under 18 years old, can I sign my application?

No, a parent or legal guardian must give his/her consent.

Who can apply for a Limited Learner Permit?

Every resident who is at least 15 years old, has completed an approved driver education course and can provide a Driving Eligibility Certificate.

What do I have to do to apply for my Learner Permit?

  • Be at least 15 years old;
  • Successfully complete a 30 hours classroom instruction and 6 hours behind-the-wheel instruction;
  • Pass the written, signs and vision tests.

Do I have any restriction while driving with my North Carolina Limited Learner Permit?

  • During the first 6 months: you are allowed to drive only between 5 am and 9 pm if accompanied by your supervising driver;
  • After the first 6 months: you can drive anytime if accompanied by your supervising driver.

Who can be my supervising driver?

A parent, grandparent, guardian or a responsible person approved by the parent/guardian.

I have successfully held my Limited Learner Permit for 12 months. What’s next?

After 12 months, you can apply for a Limited Provisional License.

What do I have to do to apply for a Limited Provisional License?

You must be at least 16 years old. You must also complete at least 60 hours of supervised driving and have no convictions of motor vehicle moving violations.

Do I have any restriction while driving with my North Carolina Limited Provisional License?

  • You are allowed to drive alone only from 5 am to 9 pm;
  • The number of passengers (other than family members) under the age of 21 is limited to 1 if the supervising driver is not riding in the car;
  • You are not allowed to use a mobile phone.

How can I apply for a Full provisional License?

  • Hold your Limited Provisional License for at least 6 months;
  • Complete at least 12 hours of supervised operation (including at least 6 hours during nighttime);
  • Avoid any conviction of motor vehicle moving violation.

Do I have any restriction while driving with my North Carolina Full Provisional License?

If you are under 18 years of age, you are not allowed to use a mobile phone.

NORTH CAROLINA KNOWLEDGE TEST

How can I make an appointment for my NC knowledge test?

Contact your local driver license office. Find your nearest office at https://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/.

How many questions are on the North Carolina DMV permit test?

The knowledge test contains 25 questions.

What is the score required to pass the test?

You must correctly answer at least 20 questions (80%) to pass the test.

How can I prepare for the North Carolina knowledge test?

Study the North Carolina Driver’s Handbook. Then, practice with our DMV written tests. You must be able to correctly answer questions about NC traffic laws and safe driving practices.

I failed my knowledge test. What do I have to do?

You can retake the test when you feel you are ready. Study the North Carolina Driver’s Handbook before retaking the test.

DRIVING TEST

What is the driving test about?

You must demonstrate your ability to perform basic driving patterns and drive safely with traffic.

What will I be required to do during my driving test?

  • approach intersections, stop signs and traffic signals;
  • back;
  • perform quick stops;
  • stop, start and park;
  • use the clutch;
  • use turn signals and the horn;
  • turn;
  • use lanes;
  • follow other vehicles;
  • pass and be passed;
  • yield the right of way;
  • maintain a correct driving posture.

I failed my driving test. What’s next?

You must wait at least 5 business days before you are allowed to retake this test.