North Carolina Driver Handbook Summary

Welcome Message

• Governor Roy Cooper emphasizes the importance of safe driving for the 7.5 million licensed drivers in North Carolina.
• The handbook is designed to prepare for the driver license examination and reinforce safe driving techniques.

DMV directAccess

• Provides 24/7 information via telephone about driver licenses, permits, medical forms, vehicle registration, and more.
• Contact: 919-715-7000

Online Services (MyNCDMV.gov)

• Renew licenses and registrations, pay taxes, and access driving records.
• Order personalized plates and manage account settings.

Duplicate Licenses/ID Cards

• Request online if certain conditions are met, such as having a recent photo on file.
• Fee: $16.75

Online Renewal

• Available every other renewal cycle.
• Requires identity verification and a credit/debit card for payment.
• Not available for first-time licenses or REAL ID issuances.

Transportation Alternatives

• Options include walking, cycling, carpooling, and public transportation.
• Public transportation available throughout the state.

Chapter 1: Your License

Office Hours and Services

• Driver license offices offer services generally from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Appointments can be made online.

Learner Permits

• Available to individuals 18+ with testing requirements.

Test Requirements

• Include vision, traffic signs, knowledge of laws, and driving skills.

Types of Licenses

• Regular, commercial (CDL), and motorcycle licenses with specific classes and endorsements.

Graduated Licensing for 15-18 Year Olds

• Involves multiple levels (Limited Learner Permit, Limited Provisional License, Full Provisional License).
• Requires passing educational courses and adhering to driving logs.

Required Documents

• Proof of identity, residency, SSN, and insurance required for license applications.

Chapter 2: Alcohol and the Law

DWI Laws

• Driving While Impaired (DWI) laws in place with specific BAC limits.
• Penalties include license revocation and required substance assessments.

Alcohol Restrictions for Young Drivers

• Strict restrictions and penalties for underage alcohol consumption and driving.

Chapter 3: Your Driving Privilege

Driver License Points

• Points are assigned for traffic violations, with potential for license suspension.

Suspensions and Restoration

• License can be suspended for multiple offenses or failure to appear in court.
• Restoration involves fees and sometimes retesting.

Chapter 4: Your Driving

Driver Safety

• Importance of being alert, avoiding distractions, and managing drowsiness.

Vehicle Control

• Techniques for handling curves, changing lanes, and emergency situations like skids and blowouts.

Chapter 5: Signals, Signs, and Pavement Markings

Traffic Signals

• Importance of understanding signals and signs for safe driving.

Pavement Markings

• Different lines and markers indicate lane directions and safe passing zones.

Chapter 6: Sharing the Road

Bicycles and Pedestrians

• Cyclists must follow traffic laws.
• Drivers must yield to pedestrians and be cautious around bicycles.

Large Vehicles

• Awareness of blind spots and appropriate following distances for trucks.

Chapter 7: How DMV Serves You

Vehicle Registration and Insurance

• Requirements for registering vehicles and maintaining liability insurance.

Tag & Tax Together

• Combined payment system for vehicle registration and property taxes.

Vehicle Inspections

• Annual safety and emission inspections required for vehicle registration.

Additional Resources

• For detailed information, forms, and updates, visit MyNCDMV.gov.