North Carolina Driver Handbook Overview

Introduction

• North Carolina has 7.5 million licensed drivers.
• Emphasis on safe and responsible driving to reduce annual crashes and fatalities.
• Handbook aids in preparing for driver license exams and reinforces safe driving.

DMV and Online Services

DMV directAccess

• Provides information on driver licenses, permits, CDLs, vehicle registration, and insurance.
• Accessible 24/7 by calling 919-715-7000.

Online Services at MyNCDMV.gov

• Renew driver licenses and vehicle registrations.
• Pay vehicle property taxes and insurance lapse penalties.
• Order duplicate registration cards, driving records, personalized plates.
• Sign up for email notifications.

Driver License Information

Types of Licenses and Requirements

• Regular and Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL).
• Endorsements for motorcycles, school buses, etc.
• Graduated licensing for those aged 15-18.

Tests and Requirements for Obtaining a License

• Includes vision, knowledge, and driving skills tests.
• Health checks to ensure safe driving ability.
• Documentation needed for proof of identity, residency, and insurance.

License Renewal and Duplicates

• Online renewal available every other cycle.
• Requirements for renewal include identity verification and eye tests.
• Duplicate licenses available for lost or stolen cards, address/name changes.

Driving Laws

Alcohol and Driving

• BAC of 0.08% or higher is illegal.
• DWI laws include severe penalties and possible ignition interlock requirements.

Driving Privilege and Point System

• Points assigned for traffic violations.
• Accumulating points can lead to license suspension.
• License restoration requires fees and tests.

Defensive Driving and Safety

• Importance of awareness and adjusting speed to driving conditions.
• Seat belt and child safety laws enforced.

Roadway and Vehicle Regulations

Signals, Signs, and Markings

• Understanding traffic signals and signs.
• Importance of yielding and understanding right-of-way.
• Pavement markings guide lane usage and passing rules.

Sharing the Road

• Rules for safely navigating around bicycles, motorcycles, and large vehicles.
• Understanding blind spots and no-zones, especially for trucks.

Vehicle Requirements

• Regular maintenance, including lights, brakes, tires.
• Specific equipment like mirrors, horns, and emergency flashers required.

Emergency Situations

Handling Skids and Failures

• Techniques for managing brake failure, skids, and blowouts.
• Procedures for safely stopping on roadways.

Emergencies and Crashes

• Steps to take when involved in or witnessing a crash.
• Legal requirements for reporting crashes and exchanging information.

Modern Infrastructure

Understanding New Traffic Implementations

• Use of roundabouts and traffic circles to manage flow.
• Importance of properly using interchanges and exits.

Railroad and Work Zone Safety

• Importance of stopping for trains and obeying work zone signs.

DMV Services

Vehicle Registration and Inspection

• Requirements for registration, including proof of insurance.
• Annual safety and emissions inspections.

Tax and Title Processes

• Combined tag and tax payments.
• Title transfers and application for duplicate titles.

Community Initiatives

• Programs like Adopt-A-Highway encourage public involvement in roadway cleanliness.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of driving in North Carolina, focusing on safety, legal requirements, and DMV services.