What’s on the North Carolina permit test?

Expect 25 multiple-choice questions on the North Carolina written test. You need 80% correct to pass - roughly 20 right. The question pool draws from the official North Carolina handbook: signs, signals, right of way, safe-driving practices, and a few rules unique to North Carolina. North Carolina’s DMV uses a 25-question road-signs section as a separate block - most failures happen there.

It’s mostly factual. You’ll see questions about sign meanings, posted speed limits, signaling distances, and right-of-way order. A smaller block tests practical judgment in everyday driving scenarios.

The North Carolina handbook isn’t interchangeable with another state’s. Practicing on the right material - North Carolina-specific questions, North Carolina rules - is the difference between passing first try and not.

Sample questions (free, no signup)

Here are 6 practice questions in the North Carolina format. Tap each to reveal the answer and the explanation. Want unlimited? Get the app.

Question 1: At what age can you apply for a Limited Learner Permit in North Carolina?

• At least 15 years old
• At least 14 years old
• At least 16 years old

Correct answer: At least 15 years old

Why: You must be at least 15 years old but less than 18 years old to apply for a Level One Limited Learner Permit.

💡 Memory tip: 15 to start. Limited Learner Permit; must be under 18.

Question 2: Can you use a cell phone to call your parent during an emergency while driving with a Level Two license?

• Only if the parent is also your legal guardian
• No, only 911 calls are permitted
• Yes, parents are specifically listed as emergency contacts

Correct answer: Yes, parents are specifically listed as emergency contacts

Why: Under North Carolina law (G.S. 20-137.3), Level Two (provisional) license holders are generally prohibited from using a mobile phone while driving. However, an exception exists for emergency situations, including calls to a parent, legal guardian, or spouse. Therefore, yes, a Level Two license holder may call a parent during a genuine emergency while driving. The call is not limited to 911 only, and the exception applies to parents regardless of whether they are also the legal guardian.

💡 Memory tip: Level Two: Emergencies? Parents count. OK to call, not just 911.

Question 3: What type of license does North Carolina DMV issue to applicants under the age of 21?

• Horizontal license
• Standard license
• Vertical license

Correct answer: Vertical license

Why: DMV issues a vertical license/ID card to applicants under the age of 21, which helps distinguish them from adult license holders.

💡 Memory tip: Vertical license = under 21; horizontal is for adults.

Question 4: What is the minimum allowable light transmittance for tinted windows in North Carolina?

• No less than 35%
• No less than 50%
• No less than 25%

Correct answer: No less than 35%

Why: North Carolina law requires that window tint must allow at least 35% of light to pass through the glass.

💡 Memory tip: NC tint: 35% light or brighter. Darker is illegal.

Question 5: What happens to driving restrictions when you obtain a Level Three Full Provisional License?

• Time, supervision, and passenger restrictions are removed
• All restrictions remain the same
• Only time restrictions are removed

Correct answer: Time, supervision, and passenger restrictions are removed

Why: Under North Carolina’s graduated licensing system, when a driver obtains a Level Three Full Provisional License (available at age 18), the restrictions that applied during Level One (Limited Learner Permit) and Level Two (Limited Provisional License) - including nighttime driving restrictions, supervision requirements, and passenger limitations - are removed.

💡 Memory tip: Level Three = Full Freedom; no time, supervision, or passenger limits.

Question 6: What type of vehicles do NOT require a CDL?

• Vehicles designed for 16 or more passengers
• Vehicles transporting hazardous materials
• Recreational vehicles and fire equipment

Correct answer: Recreational vehicles and fire equipment

Why: You do not need a CDL to drive recreational vehicles, military equipment, fire and/or emergency equipment, or certain farm vehicles. However, a regular license of the appropriate class is required at all times.

💡 Memory tip: Recreational vehicles and fire equipment don’t need a CDL.

North Carolina-specific rules to know

Eight items pulled from the North Carolina handbook that we keep seeing on the test. Quick read; high payoff.

• Emergency vehicles - Which requires drivers to understand proper procedures when encountering emergency vehicles.
• Lights - At no time should you have more than four lights (not including headlights) burning at once.
• Right of way - When vehicles from different directions arrive at the same time at an intersection with no signs or signals, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
• Parking - Failing to perceive another vehicle pulling out of a parking lot is an example of slowed perception due to distraction, as distractions can impair a driver’s ability to notice critical changes in…
• Driving rule - An antique vehicle is a motor vehicle that is over 25 years old and is owned solely as a collector’s item for participation in club activities, tours, parades, and similar use, but not to be used…
• Alcohol & DUI - The only time a 12 o’clock hand position is recommended is when backing a vehicle while turning, as the driver must turn in their seat to see the path of the vehicle.
• Pedestrians - When a PHB’s two red lights alternate flashing (while the walk signal counts down), this tells the driver that if the crosswalk is now clear, they may proceed with caution.
• Accidents - Many collisions involving passenger vehicles and large trucks occur at intersections when the passenger vehicle’s driver did not realize how close the truck was or how fast it was traveling, often…

How to schedule your North Carolina permit test

You can typically schedule your North Carolina permit test online through the official North Carolina DMV / motor-vehicle agency website. Bring proof of identity, residency, and (if under 18) the required parent/guardian documentation. Fees vary by jurisdiction - check your local DMV office for current pricing. Some states require completion of driver’s education before testing.

This page references rules from the North Carolina Driver’s Handbook. We are not affiliated with the North Carolina DMV.

Studying in a neighboring state?

Each state’s exam is different. If you’re studying for a different state, here are nearby ones: Virginia permit test practice, Tennessee permit test practice, Georgia permit test practice.

Before test day, read the full North Carolina permit test guide for 2026 - it covers what the knowledge test includes, the North Carolina rules that trip people up, and the license steps after you pass.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the North Carolina permit test?

The North Carolina DMV permit test has 25 questions. You need to answer at least 80% correctly to pass.

What is the passing score for the North Carolina permit test?

You need 80% to pass - that’s roughly 20 out of 25 questions correct.

How old do I have to be to take the North Carolina permit test?

The minimum age in North Carolina is 15. Check your local DMV office for any additional requirements like a parent’s signature or driver’s education enrollment.

Can I retake the North Carolina permit test if I fail?

Yes. Most North Carolina DMV offices let you retake the test, often after a short waiting period. Some locations charge a small re-test fee. Check your local DMV office for the exact rules.

Is the DMV Ready app good for North Carolina?

For North Carolina: 25-question practice exams, 80% pass mark, content from the North Carolina driver handbook. Same shape as the real test.

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