Free North Carolina Permit Practice Tests 2025

Free North Carolina Permit Practice Tests 2025

With over 300 miles of stunning coastline and the Appalachian Mountains, the Tar Heel State offers a huge variety of landscapes for drivers to explore. However, before you can get behind the wheel, you will need to pass the North Carolina DMV permit test.

Prepare for the North Carolina Permit Test

The permit test (sometimes referred to as the driver’s permit test) is required if you are trying to get your North Carolina learner’s permit, North Carolina driver’s license, North Carolina senior citizens’ refresher test, or renew your North Carolina driver’s license. Start preparing for success with our North Carolina permit practice tests. These tests have been carefully designed to simulate the real exam with questions based on the information found in the official North Carolina Driver’s Handbook.

  • Real Test Simulation: Our North Carolina permit practice tests replicate the format and content of the actual written exam.
  • Instant Feedback: Get immediate answers to each question, helping you learn quickly and correct mistakes as you go.
  • Track Your Progress: Monitor your performance and focus on areas where you need more practice.
  • Unlimited Practice: Take the tests as many times as needed to build confidence before the real exam.

Boost your confidence with questions covering the very same topics you are likely to encounter on test day. Practice tests are proven methods to help you retain more information and master the material. Maximize the effectiveness of your study sessions by taking multiple practice tests until you’ve achieved the score you’re looking for.

Start Your NC Permit Practice Test Now

It’s important to keep in mind that the NC DMV permit test may only have 25 questions, but you will need to answer a minimum of 80% correctly to pass. By putting in the study time now, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a licensed driver and enjoying the freedom of the open road. Select an NC permit practice test to get started today.

Permit Practice Tests (406 questions)

  • Questions 1-45
    Permit Test 1

    Start your journey by learning the fundamentals of driving in North Carolina.  Multiple choice questions designed to test your knowledge of the rules of the road.

  • Questions 46-90
    Permit Test 2

    Introduction to common road signs, lane markings, speed limits, traffic lights, sharing the road, child restraint systems, hand signals, and seatbelt usage.

  • Questions 91-135
    Permit Test 3

    Questions designed to test your knowledge of driving in poor weather conditions, phone usage, parking rules, lane changes, road signs, traffic signals, and blind spots.

  • Questions 136-183
    Permit Test 4

    Features safe driving questions with an emphasis on defensive driving, distracted driving, emergency situations, railroad crossings, accidents, and road signs.

  • Questions 184-233
    Road Signs Test

    This practice test will test your knowledge of various road signs and their meanings.  Learn how to identify road signs by shape and color.

  • 25 random questions
    DMV Test Simulator

    Simulate test day with this practice test.  Random questions generated from a huge database.  No explanations.  New questions with every attempt.

  • Questions 234-406
    Mega Test

    Boost your knowledge with this massive practice test.  Features hundreds of questions from every road rules category.  Perfect for the day before the exam.

North Carolina Permit Test FAQ

Basic Eligibility Requirements

How old do I have to be to get my permit in North Carolina?

In North Carolina you must be at least 15 years old to apply for a Limited Learner Permit. This is the first step in North Carolina’s graduated licensing program for teen drivers.

What documents do I need to bring when I apply for my permit?

To apply for a permit in North Carolina, you must bring:

  • Proof of age and identity (birth certificate or passport)
  • Proof of Social Security Number (Social Security card, W-2 form or 1099)
  • Two proofs of North Carolina residency (showing your current address)
  • Proof of liability insurance for the vehicle you’ll be driving
  • If you’re under 18, a Driving Eligibility Certificate from your school or proof of high school graduation/GED

If I'm under 18, do my parents need to be involved in the permit application process?

Yes. If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian must:

  • Sign your permit application
  • Accept financial responsibility for you
  • Be present with you at the DMV when you apply
  • If your parents share joint custody, both should sign (though typically only one signature is required if full custody applies)

How do I apply for a permit in North Carolina?

The application process in North Carolina is as follows:

  1. Complete a Driver License Application (Form DL-4)
  2. Bring all the required documents (identity, residency, etc.)
  3. If you’re under 18, have your parent or guardian sign the application
  4. Pass a vision test
  5. Pass the knowledge test
  6. Pay the application fee
  7. Have your photo taken for your permit

Can I apply online?

North Carolina allows you to start parts of the application process online through the NCDMV website. However, you must visit a DMV office in person to:

  • Complete the application
  • Bring your required documents
  • Take your vision test
  • Complete your knowledge test

How much does it cost to get a permit?

The North Carolina DMV charges a fee for a Limited Learner Permit. This fee covers processing your application, the knowledge test, and issuing your permit. Visit the North Carolina DMV website for current fee information.

What tests do I have to pass to get my permit?

To get your permit in North Carolina, you must pass:

  • A vision test to make sure you can see well enough to drive safely
  • A knowledge test with multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices

How many questions are on the North Carolina permit test?

The North Carolina permit knowledge test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. You need to answer at least 20 questions correctly (80%) to pass the test.

What's on the North Carolina permit test?

The North Carolina permit test covers:

  • Traffic laws and regulations
  • Road signs and signals
  • Right-of-way rules
  • Safe driving practices
  • Alcohol and drug effects on driving
  • Penalties for violating traffic laws

How can I prepare for the permit test?

The best ways to prepare for your North Carolina permit test:

  • Study the North Carolina Driver’s Handbook thoroughly, available on our website at North Carolina Driver’s Manual
  • Take our free practice tests that simulate the actual permit test
  • Review road signs and traffic laws multiple times
  • Consider enrolling in a driver education course

What if I fail the permit test?

If you fail the North Carolina permit test:

  • You can retake it after waiting at least one day
  • Each retest requires the same fee as the original test
  • There is no limit to how many times you can take the test

What can I do with a permit in North Carolina?

With a North Carolina Limited Learner Permit, you can:

  • Practice driving with a supervising driver who is at least 21 years old and has been licensed for at least five years
  • Drive on all public roadways

What restrictions come with a permit in North Carolina?

When driving with a Limited Learner Permit in North Carolina you:

  • Must be accompanied by a supervising driver who is at least 21 years old and has been licensed for at least five years
  • Can only drive between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. for the first six months (after that, you may drive at any time with a supervising driver)
  • Cannot use mobile phones or any electronic devices while driving
  • Must ensure all occupants wear seat belts
  • Cannot drive with any alcohol in your system

How long do I have to practice with my permit before I get a license?

In North Carolina, you must hold your Limited Learner Permit for at least 12 months before you can apply for a Limited Provisional License. During this time you must:

  • Complete at least 60 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night) with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has been licensed for at least five years
  • Keep a driving log signed by your supervising driver
  • Have no moving violations or seat belt/mobile phone violations during the last six months of the permit period

Do I need to take a driver education course to get my permit?

North Carolina requires different driver education based on your age:

  • If you are under 18: Yes, you must complete an approved driver education course before getting a Limited Learner Permit. This course typically includes 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of behind-the-wheel training.
  • If you are 18 or older: No, driver education is not required, although it is recommended to help you become a safer driver.

What driver education do I need to complete before I get my license?

In North Carolina, before you get your driver’s license, the requirements depend on your age:

  • If you are under 18, you must complete:
    • An approved driver education course (30 hours classroom, six hours behind-the-wheel)
    • At least 60 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night) with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has been licensed for at least five years
  • If you are 18 or older: No formal driver education is required, though it is still beneficial.

How do I find an approved driver education program?

You can find North Carolina-approved driver education programs by:

  • Checking your high school’s offerings (most public high schools offer driver education)
  • Visiting the North Carolina DMV website for a list of approved commercial driving schools
  • Contacting your local school district for information on available programs

What can I expect during the driving test?

The North Carolina driving test checks:

  • If you can safely operate the vehicle
  • If you follow traffic laws and signs
  • Basic maneuvers such as turns, lane changes, and parking
  • Awareness of other road users
  • Good decision-making in various traffic situations

Before you start, the DMV examiner will verify your knowledge of vehicle controls and safety features.

How do I schedule my driving test?

You can schedule your driving test in North Carolina by:

  • Visiting the North Carolina DMV website and using their online appointment system
  • Calling your local DMV office
  • Visiting a driver license office in person

What do I need to bring to my driving test?

On the day of your driving test in North Carolina, bring:

  • Your Limited Learner Permit
  • A properly registered and insured vehicle
  • Proof of liability insurance for the vehicle
  • Your driving log showing completed practice hours
  • A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old with at least five years of driving experience (to drive you to the test)

What are the most common reasons people fail the driving test?

Common reasons for failing the North Carolina driving test include:

  • Not checking blind spots before changing lanes
  • Rolling through stop signs instead of coming to a complete stop
  • Driving too fast or too slow for conditions
  • Improper lane positioning or lane changes
  • Not yielding to pedestrians or other vehicles
  • Lack of steering control
  • Poor awareness of surroundings
  • Inability to parallel park

How do I convert my learner's permit to a driver's license?

To convert your learner’s permit to a driver’s license in North Carolina:
If you are under 18:

  • Hold your Limited Learner Permit for at least 12 months
  • Complete at least 60 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night)
  • Have no moving violations in the last six months
  • Pass the driving test
  • Pay the required fee

If you are 18 or older:

  • Practice with your permit
  • Schedule and pass the driving test
  • Pay the required fee

What are the graduated licensing stages in North Carolina?

North Carolina’s graduated licensing program has these stages:

  • Limited Learner Permit: Must be at least 15 years old; requires driver education and supervised driving with a licensed adult (at least 21 years old with five years of experience).
  • Limited Provisional License: Must be at least 16 years old, have held your permit for at least 12 months, and complete the required supervised driving practice. You must pass the driving test to obtain this license.
  • Full Provisional License: Obtained after holding the Limited Provisional License for at least six months with no moving violations.
  • Regular Driver’s License: Granted when provisional restrictions end, typically when you turn 18.
  • Adults 18 and older can go directly from permit to full license after passing the driving test.

What am I restricted from doing as a new driver after getting my license?

As a new driver under 18 in North Carolina, your Limited Provisional License will have these restrictions:

  • No driving between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless driving to or from work or volunteer emergency services
  • Only one passenger under 21 is allowed (family members are exempt)
  • No use of mobile phones or electronic devices while driving

After holding your Limited Provisional License for at least six months with no moving violations, you can upgrade to a Full Provisional License, which removes time restrictions and allows more passengers. These restrictions end when you turn 18.

I have a permit from another state. Is it valid in North Carolina?

North Carolina may recognize out-of-state permits, but with limitations:

  • You can drive in North Carolina with an out-of-state permit following both that state’s restrictions and North Carolina laws
  • If you’re moving permanently, you should apply for a North Carolina permit
  • If you’re under 18, you may receive credit for time spent with an out-of-state permit, but you must still meet all North Carolina requirements

What accommodations are available for permit applicants with disabilities?

North Carolina offers the following accommodations for applicants with disabilities:

  • Audio versions of the driver handbook
  • Oral knowledge tests
  • Sign language interpreters (with advance notice)
  • Extended testing time
  • The ability to use special equipment in your vehicle for the driving test
  • Contact your local DMV office before your appointment to request accommodations

Can I get my permit if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, non-U.S. citizens can get a permit or license in North Carolina by providing:

  • Valid immigration documents
  • Proof of North Carolina residency
  • Proof of age and identity
  • Proof of Social Security Number or ITIN (or a declaration that you don’t have one)

Visit the North Carolina DMV website for more information on documentation requirements for non-citizens.

Where can I download the North Carolina Driver's Manual?

You can download a copy of the North Carolina Driver’s Manual from our website at this link. Physical copies are also available at any DMV office.

Are there free practice tests available?

Yes! We offer free North Carolina-specific practice tests that mimic the actual permit test. They are designed to help you study the material and get comfortable with the test format before your exam.

Who can I contact if I have more questions about the permit process?

For more information about the North Carolina permit process:

  • Visit the North Carolina DMV website at www.ncdot.gov/dmv
  • Call the DMV at 919-715-7000 during business hours
  • Visit your local DMV driver license office
  • Contact the NC DMV TTY service if you have hearing impairments

What if I lose my permit?

If you lose your North Carolina permit:

  • You can request a replacement at any DMV driver license office
  • You will need to provide proof of your identity
  • You will need to pay a replacement fee
  • If you’re under 18, a parent or guardian may need to be present

How do I cancel a minor's permit or license?

A parent or guardian who signed the application for a minor can cancel their teen’s permit or license by:

  • Submitting a written request to the DMV
  • Including the minor’s full name, date of birth, and permit/license number
  • Having the parent or guardian who originally signed the application sign the request
  • Submitting the request to any DMV driver license office