Overview
This lecture provides a comprehensive summary of the North Carolina Driver Handbook 2025, covering licensing rules, driving laws, safety practices, traffic signals, sharing the road, DMV services, and defensive driving essentials.
Getting Your License
- DMV offices operate mainly 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; check local hours before visits.
- Learner permits for 18+ require vision, sign, and knowledge tests; must drive with a licensed adult.
- Motorcycle permits require completed rider courses for under 18; adults need a regular license.
- First-time license tests include vision, sign, law, and driving skills exams.
- Passing vision, sign, and law tests is mandatory for all licenses.
- Health issues may lead to license restrictions or denials.
- Regular licenses: Class A (combos), B (heavy), C (cars/small trucks); CDL for commercial drivers.
- Graduated licenses for ages 15–18 have phased supervision and restrictions.
License Maintenance & Renewal
- Regular licenses: 8 years (18–65), 5 years (66+); renew up to 6 months prior to expiry.
- Duplicates available for lost/stolen licenses and address or name changes.
- Address and name changes must be reported within 60 days.
- State ID cards available to all; special fee exemptions for certain groups.
- Proof of liability insurance required for licensing.
Alcohol and the Law
- DWI (Driving While Impaired) laws enforce strict penalties and BAC limits (0.08% or 0.04% for CDL).
- Breath/blood test refusal results in immediate and long-term license revocation.
- Under 21, any alcohol-related conviction leads to one-year revocation.
- Repeat DWI offenses can result in permanent loss of license and felony charges.
- Ignition interlock required for BAC ≥ 0.15% or repeat offenses.
Points & Suspensions
- Points are assigned for violations; 7 points = mandatory improvement clinic.
- 12 points in 3 years triggers suspension (60 days); 8 points post-reinstatement = 6 months.
- Out-of-state convictions and unpaid fines can suspend NC driving privileges.
- Speeding, racing, and refusing alcohol tests have specific revocation periods.
Safe Driving Practices
- Always scan ahead, use mirrors, maintain a 2-second gap, and signal 100 feet before turns/lane changes.
- Stay right except when passing, and adjust speed to conditions.
- Pass only in safe, marked zones; never on hills, curves, or near crossings.
- At intersections, yield to those on your right and to pedestrians.
- Use headlights from sunset to sunrise and in poor visibility; adjust following distance at night or in bad weather.
- Special caution for driving in rain, fog, snow, and around large vehicles.
Signals, Signs, and Pavement Markings
- Traffic signals override signs; red=stop, yellow=prepare, green=go if safe.
- Regulatory signs dictate actions; warning signs highlight hazards; guide signs provide directions.
- Lane markings: yellow separates traffic; white for same direction; solid lines restrict passing.
- Pavement arrows and words indicate turning and lane use; stop lines and crosswalks protect pedestrians.
Sharing the Road
- Pedestrians: cross at marked areas; wear visible clothing; make eye contact.
- Cyclists: ride with traffic; motorists must leave 4 feet or change lanes to pass.
- Motorcycles: need full lane; double-check before turning; allow extra space.
- Trucks: avoid "no zones"; give extra room; expect wide turns.
- Mopeds: riders must be 16+ and wear helmets; treat with patience.
- Littering is illegal; drivers are responsible for trash from vehicles.
DMV Services
- Order driving records online or by mail; fees vary.
- Register/title vehicles within 60 days of residency or purchase; insurance required.
- Vehicles need annual safety/emissions inspection before registration renewal.
- Transfer plates between owned vehicles after proper paperwork.
- Window tint has specific limits; medical waivers require documentation.
- Online DMV services include renewals, duplicates, and scheduling.
Key Terms & Definitions
- DWI — Driving While Impaired; operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Graduated License — Step-by-step licensing for drivers under 18 to gain experience.
- Point System — DMV method assigning points for traffic violations, leading to clinics or suspensions.
- Regulatory Sign — Signs that state law or rules drivers must obey (e.g., speed limits).
- No Zone — Large blind spots around trucks where cars should avoid lingering.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Study the full NC Driver Handbook for detailed laws and road signs.
- Schedule and prepare for required DMV tests if applying for a license.
- Keep personal information (address/name) current with DMV.
- Complete any assigned driver improvement clinic if notified.
- Ensure your vehicle has valid registration, inspection, and insurance before driving.