North Carolina Permit Test Practice
North Carolina's NCDMV gives teens three tests on permit day: a 25-question knowledge test (20 correct to pass), a separate road sign test where you identify signs by shape, color and meaning, and a vision test. A parent or guardian has to be there with you, and the Level 1 Limited Learner Permit arrives by mail.
NC teens can start at 15 after a state-approved driver education course of 30 classroom hours and 6 behind the wheel. Since 2024 the Level 1 permit must be held 9 months instead of 12, and you'll keep a printed log of 60 supervised hours. For the first 6 months, permit drivers can only drive 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Practice free on DMV Permit Prep to get both the knowledge and sign tests right the first time.
- Questions
- 25
- To pass
- 20 correct · 80%
- Permit age
- 15
- Practice
- 60 hours (logged)
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North Carolina permit test sample questions
Tap an answer to check yourself.
1. What is the youngest age at which you can get a Level 1 Limited Learner Permit in North Carolina?
2. With a North Carolina Level 2 license, when may you drive without a supervising driver?
3. During the first 6 months of a North Carolina Level 1 permit, when may you drive?
4. After the first 6 months of a North Carolina Level 1 permit, when may you drive?
5. When a fire truck is on its way to a fire, you should not:
How to get your learner's permit in North Carolina
- 1Complete NC driver education: 30 classroom hours and 6 behind-the-wheel hours.
- 2Get a Driving Eligibility Certificate from your school (if required) and gather ID, residency and Social Security proof.
- 3Visit an NCDMV driver license office with a parent or guardian.
- 4Pass the vision, road sign and 25-question knowledge tests.
- 5Pay the Level 1 permit fee; your permit arrives by mail.
- 6Hold it 9 months and log 60 supervised hours before applying for a Level 2 license.
Level 1 permit holders may drive only 5 a.m.–9 p.m. for the first 6 months, always with a supervising driver in the front seat and no phone use. Permit holding period: 9 months. Fee: $25.50.
The North Carolina knowledge test
A 25-question knowledge test plus a separate road sign test and vision test at an NCDMV driver license office.
Study tips for North Carolina
- Practice signs separately: NC's road sign test is scored on its own.
- Remember the 9-month permit rule changed in 2024; older guides still say 12.
- Know Level 1 and Level 2 hour and passenger limits; they appear on the knowledge test.
CDL in North Carolina
North Carolina CDL applicants pass NCDMV general knowledge and endorsement tests for a Commercial Learner Permit, hold it at least 14 days, and complete Entry-Level Driver Training before the skills test.
Motorcycle in North Carolina
North Carolina motorcycle learner permits require a full provisional, regular or commercial license plus a motorcycle knowledge test; the permit lasts 12 months (renewable once for 6), and completing an approved NC BikeSafe/MSF course can waive the skills test.
North Carolina permit test FAQ
How many questions are on the NC permit test?
The NC knowledge test has 25 questions and requires 20 correct (80%). You also take a separate road sign test and a vision test.
How long do you have to hold your permit in NC?
Since January 1, 2024, North Carolina teens must hold the Level 1 permit for at least 9 months (previously 12).
How old do you have to be to get a permit in NC?
You can get a Level 1 Limited Learner Permit at 15 after completing state-approved driver education.
How much is a learner's permit in NC?
The Level 1 Limited Learner Permit costs $25.50 at NCDMV.
Official information: North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) . DMV Permit Prep is an independent study tool, not affiliated with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV).
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