North Carolina Driver Handbook

Introduction

• Earning a driver’s license involves responsibility to drive safely and follow road rules.
• North Carolina has 7.5 million licensed drivers.
• Goal: Reduce accidents and fatalities.

DMV directAccess

• Phone: 919-715-7000
• Info available: Driver licenses, learner permits, CDLs, driving records, vehicle registration, and more.

Online Services

• MyNCDMV.gov offers services like renewing licenses, vehicle registration, ordering personalized plates, etc.

License and Permits

Learner Permit

• Available for ages 18 and older.
• Requires supervision from a licensed driver.

Motorcycle Learner Permit

• For ages 16-18 with specific course requirements.

Test Requirements

• Vision, Traffic Signs, Knowledge, and Driving Skills tests.

Types of Licenses

• Regular Licenses (Class A, B, C)
• Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL) with specific classes and endorsements.

Graduated Licensing for 15-18

• Limited Learner Permit, Limited Provisional License, Full Provisional License.

Safety and Legal Requirements

Alcohol and the Law

• DWI laws and penalties.
• BAC restrictions for license restoration and limited driving privileges.
• Special laws for underage drivers.

Driving Privileges

• Point system: Accumulation of points can lead to suspension.
• License restoration requires fees and proof of insurance.

Driver Safety

General Safety

• Importance of physical and mental health while driving.
• Avoid drowsy or distracted driving.

Protecting Yourself and Passengers

• Mandatory seat belts and child safety seats.

Hazardous Driving Conditions

• Guidelines for driving in rain, snow, fog, etc.

Signals, Signs, and Road Markings

• Regulatory, Warning, and Guide signs.
• Traffic signals and pavement markings.

Sharing the Road

Bicycles, Motorcycles, and Mopeds

• Bicycles should follow traffic rules like any vehicle.
• Motorcycles and mopeds have specific road-sharing guidelines.

Truck and Large Vehicle Safety

• Awareness of No-Zones (blind spots).

DMV Services

Vehicle Registration

• Process and requirements for registering vehicles.
• Tag & Tax Together program for tag renewals and property tax payments.

Emissions & Safety Inspections

• Annual inspection requirement.

Additional Information

• Insurance requirements, address/name change procedures, and more.

This handbook serves as a detailed guide for new and current drivers in North Carolina, offering essential information for obtaining and maintaining a driver’s license, adhering to road safety protocols, and understanding DMV services.