Road Tests & Road Test Waivers
Regular road tests road tests have resumed for drivers ages 15-17 seeking a Level 3 Provisional
Road test waivers are still in place for
drivers 18 and over to get their regular Class C license.
Read More.
To get a North Carolina learner permit, an individual must be at least 18 years old and apply in person at an N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles
driver license office. (
Individuals at least 18 years old may also apply for a
driver license.)
Note: Teens 15 to 17 years old must apply for a limited learner permit as part of a
graduated licensing process.
Qualified applicants must successfully complete
required knowledge, road sign recognition, vision and driving tests (Please note: Please see the information in the Contactless Road Tests & Road Test Waivers section above) and take the following required documents to an NCDMV driver license office.
Note: NCDMV also offers an N.C. REAL ID driver license, which requires
additional information and requirements.
North Carolina
issues learner permits from a central location and mails them to applicants within 20 days. Driver license applicants receive a Temporary Driving Certificate to use until their permit arrives.
Note: Applying for a North Carolina driver license or learner’s permit will cancel any licenses or permits from other states through the State-to-State Verification program.
Permit Fees
Applicants must pay a fee to be issued a North Carolina learner permit.
View a list of licenses and fees.
Appointments Required
Restrictions
A learner permit authorizes unlicensed drivers to drive a specified type or class of motor vehicles while in possession of the permit.
While operating a motor vehicle, a permit holder must be accompanied in the front passenger seat by a licensed adult.
NCDMV might not license an individual who suffers from a mental or physical condition that might keep them from driving safely. A person with a disability might be issued a restricted license, provided the condition does not keep them from driving safely.