North Carolina Driver's License Overview

Importance and Responsibility

• Driving in North Carolina: 7.5 million licensed drivers.
• Responsibility to follow road rules to reduce accidents and fatalities.
• Key statistics: 276,000 accidents, 1,700+ fatalities annually.
• Resources: Driver's handbook available online at myncdmv.gov.

DMV Direct Access

• Available 24/7: Information on licenses, registrations, and insurance.
• Phone: 919-715-7000.
• Services include license info, medical forms, records, registration, taxes, and fees.

Online Services

• Renew vehicle registration, order duplicate cards, sign up for notifications.
• Online license renewal every other cycle.

Transportation Alternatives

• Options: Walking, biking, carpooling, and public transportation.
• Public transportation is accessible and can accommodate disabilities.

Chapter 1: Your License

General Information

• Legal privilege and responsibility.
• Open hours for DMV offices: Usually 8 AM to 5 PM.

Learner Permits

• Available from age 18 or older.
• Must pass vision, traffic signs, and knowledge tests.

Types of Licenses

• Regular licenses (Class A, B, C).
• Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL): Class A, B, C.
• Motorcycle endorsements and school bus requirements.

Graduated Licensing

• For ages 15 to 18: Level 1 (limited learner), Level 2 (limited provisional), Level 3 (full provisional).
• Requirements for moving violations and cell phone use.

Chapter 2: Alcohol and the Law

DWI Laws

• BAC limit: 0.08%.
• Mandatory license revocation for DWI.
• Consequences for underage drinking and driving.

Chapter 3: Driving Privilege

Points System

• Points for traffic violations, leading to possible suspension.
• License suspension for speeding and other violations.

Provisional License

• Specific rules for drivers under 18.

Chapter 4: Driving

Safe Driving Practices

• Importance of driver condition and avoiding distractions.
• Effects of alcohol and medications.

Protecting Yourself and Passengers

• Seat belt and child safety requirements.
• Motorcycle helmet laws.

General Driving

• Adjust speed for conditions, handle curves and turns properly.
• Passing and lane changing rules.

Emergency Situations

• Handling brake failure, skids, and crashes.

Chapter 5: Signals and Signs

Traffic Signals

• Understanding signals, including flashing and hybrid beacons.

Traffic Signs

• Regulatory, warning, and guide signs.

Chapter 6: Sharing the Road

Bicycles and Pedestrians

• Bicyclists must follow traffic laws.
• Pedestrians should be visible and cautious.

Large Vehicles

• No zones and difficulties in driving trucks.

Motorcycles

• Special considerations and rules for motorcyclists and moped riders.

Chapter 7: DMV Services

Mobile Services

• DMV mobile units offer licensing services.

Vehicle Registration

• Requirements for registration and insurance.
• How to renew and transfer registrations.

Inspections

• Annual vehicle and emissions inspections required.