About the North Carolina DMV written test
The North Carolina knowledge test (often searched as the North Carolina permit test) checks that new drivers understand road signs, traffic laws and safe driving habits before getting a learner's permit. The questions come from the official North Carolina driver handbook published by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles.
North Carolina applicants study the official NCDMV Driver Handbook before testing. Applicants 18 and older may apply for a learner permit, while teens 15 to 17 go through graduated licensing beginning with a limited learner permit and driver education.
North Carolina permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- Teens can apply for a limited learner permit at 15 (with a driver education certificate); applicants 18 or older may apply for a regular learner permit.
- Vision screening
- A vision test is required; corrective lenses must be worn while driving if your license says so.
- Permit fee
- The learner permit fee listed in the handbook is $25.50.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08% impairment for most drivers; 0.04% for commercial drivers; a one-year revocation can follow underage alcohol violations.
- Seat belt law
- Seat belts are required for all occupants, and every passenger under 16 must be properly restrained.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles before you test.
What North Carolina drivers should know
- Cities and towns: 35 mph unless posted; 55 mph outside; 70 mph on interstates.
- Do not park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
- Teens must log at least 60 hours of supervised driving, 10 of them at night.
- Passing a stopped school bus carries 5 license points.
- Pass other vehicles with at least two feet of clearance.
Topics covered in our North Carolina practice tests
- Road signs and signals: shapes, colors, pavement markings and traffic lights.
- Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed, turns, passing, parking and school zones.
- Safe driving: following distance, night and weather driving, distractions and emergencies.
- Alcohol and drugs: impaired driving, BAC and penalties.
- Sharing the road: pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and large trucks.
How to pass the North Carolina permit test
- Read the official North Carolina driver handbook, paying close attention to numbers (distances, speeds, BAC limits).
- Take Practice Test 1 in study mode and read every explanation.
- Work through Tests 2 to 5, then the topic tests for your weakest areas.
- Use the Exam Simulator and aim for 80% or higher on several attempts in a row.
- Bring the documents your state requires and book your test with the DMV.