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North Carolina Driver Handbook Overview

Apr 29, 2025

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.