North Carolina permit test facts
The format of the NCDMV knowledge test and where each fact comes from.
| Fact | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Official test | Written knowledge test | ncdot.gov Commonly reported · Agency page confirms the test exists; count from third-party reporting · checked November 1, 2026 |
| Number of questions | 25 questions (commonly reported; not published by the state) | Same source as above |
| Passing score | 80% correct (20 of 25 on a 25-question test) | Same source as above |
| Minimum age for a permit | Teens can apply for a Level 1 Limited Learner Permit from age 15 through 17, once they have a Driver's Education Certificate. | ncdot.gov Agency website · NCDMV, Get a Level 1 Limited Learner Permit (page dated 10/1/2026), 'Am I eligible for a Limited Learner Permit?' · checked November 1, 2026 |
| Permit fee | A Level 1 Limited Learner Permit, for drivers aged 15 to 17, costs $25.50. | ncdot.gov Agency website · NCDMV, Get a Level 1 Limited Learner Permit (page dated 10/1/2026), 'What are the fees?' · checked November 1, 2026 |
| What to bring | Teens need proof of identity and date of birth, a Social Security number, proof of North Carolina residency and a Driver's Education Certificate. A parent or guardian must be present for the tests. | ncdot.gov Agency website · NCDMV, Get a Level 1 Limited Learner Permit (page dated 10/1/2026), '1. Find a convenient driver license office' and introduction · checked November 1, 2026 |
| Test languages | NCDMV says the written knowledge test is offered in different languages and oral tests are available on request. It does not list which languages. | ncdot.gov Agency website · NCDMV, Driver License Tests (page dated 9/11/2026), tests table, 'Written knowledge' row · checked November 1, 2026 |
| If you fail | If you fail the North Carolina knowledge test for a regular Class C license, you can retake it in seven calendar days. | ncdot.gov Agency website · NCDMV, Driver License Tests (page dated 9/11/2026), introduction · checked November 1, 2026 |
| Signs test | Separate traffic-signs test: identify signs by colour and shape and explain what each means. NCDMV does not publish its length. | ncdot.gov Agency website · Driver License Tests table · checked November 1, 2026 |
| Handbook to study | North Carolina Driver Handbook, downloaded November 1, 2026 | ncdot.gov Official handbook · checked November 1, 2026 |
NCDMV does not publish how many questions its test has. Our practice tests use the length most often reported, marked "Commonly reported" above.
Questions people ask
How many questions are on the North Carolina permit test?
NCDMV does not publish the number of questions. 25 is the length most often reported, with 20 correct needed to pass.
What score do you need to pass the North Carolina permit test?
80% correct (20 of 25 on a 25-question test).
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in North Carolina?
Teens can apply for a Level 1 Limited Learner Permit from age 15 through 17, once they have a Driver's Education Certificate.
How much does a North Carolina learner's permit cost?
A Level 1 Limited Learner Permit, for drivers aged 15 to 17, costs $25.50.
What do you need to bring for the North Carolina permit test?
Teens need proof of identity and date of birth, a Social Security number, proof of North Carolina residency and a Driver's Education Certificate. A parent or guardian must be present for the tests.
What languages can you take the North Carolina permit test in?
NCDMV says the written knowledge test is offered in different languages and oral tests are available on request. It does not list which languages.
How soon can you retake the North Carolina permit test if you fail?
If you fail the North Carolina knowledge test for a regular Class C license, you can retake it in seven calendar days.
Which handbook should you study for the North Carolina permit test?
The North Carolina Driver Handbook (downloaded November 1, 2026), published by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles.
Fees and document rules change more often than the test itself. Check the NCDMV website before you go.
Back to the North Carolina practice tests
Facts checked November 1, 2026. See how we check.