North Carolina Driver's Handbook and Study Guide
Here is everything you need to study the North Carolina Driver's Handbook in North Carolina. This guide links to the official handbook and breaks down the chapters and most-tested topics so you can prepare for your permit test.
Most-Tested Topics for Your Permit Test
Focus your study time on these topics. They appear most often on the North Carolina permit knowledge test.
- Traffic signs and signals
- Right-of-way rules
- Speed limits
- Parking rules
- DUI/DWI laws
What Is in the North Carolina Driver's Handbook
Traffic Signs and Signals
Covers the meaning of regulatory, warning, and guide signs, plus traffic signal rules and flashing light procedures.
Right-of-Way Rules
Explains who goes first at intersections, crosswalks, roundabouts, and when merging onto highways.
Safe Driving Practices
Covers following distance, lane changes, passing, scanning for hazards, and driving in bad weather.
Parking Rules
Describes legal and illegal parking situations, parallel parking steps, and curb color meanings.
Alcohol and Drug Laws
Explains North Carolina DWI laws, BAC limits, implied consent, and penalties for impaired driving.
Sharing the Road
Addresses safe driving around pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcycles, large trucks, and school buses.
North Carolina-Specific Information
North Carolina's knowledge test has 25 questions and requires a 20-correct (80%) passing score. North Carolina uses the term DWI (Driving While Impaired) instead of DUI. The state requires a yearly vehicle safety inspection, and the handbook covers the inspection process. Teen drivers under 18 must hold a limited learner permit for at least 12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can read the North Carolina Driver's Handbook online. A PDF version is also available for download.
- Traffic signs and signals
- Right-of-way rules
- Speed limits
- Parking rules
- DUI/DWI laws
The North Carolina Driver's Handbook covers 6 chapters, from traffic signs and right-of-way rules to safe driving practices and state-specific laws.
Ready to Apply for Your Learner's Permit?
Once you have studied the handbook, the next step is applying for your permit at the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV).
View North Carolina learner's permit requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) guidelines. Handbook content can change. Visit the official North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) website for the most current driver's handbook.