Official NCDMV: Getting a License or Learner Permit

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 tests and take the following required documents to an NCDMV driver license office.

One document verifying age and identity
A Social Security card or one document proving they have a Social Security number
For U.S. citizens, one document proving residency
For non-U.S. citizens, one document issued by the U.S. government indicating legal presence
One document proving liability insurance coverage from a provider licensed to do business in North Carolina (not required for a learner's permit)

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.

Make an Appointment

Skip the line at driver license offices by making an appointment online. If you do not find an available appointment, please continue to check back as new available appointments are added each day.

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.

3/10/2023 2:09 PM