North Carolina NCDMV exam simulator
The NCDMV doesn't publish how many questions its test has, but you need 80% to pass, so the simulator gives you 25 random questions from all 325 of ours with 20 correct to pass. You only see your answers at the end. Pass three in a row and you're ready for the real thing.
25 questions · 20 to pass
How the simulator works
- Every attempt draws a new random set of 25 questions from across the handbook.
- No feedback until you finish, as in the real test. Then you see your score and every question you missed, with the explanation and handbook reference.
- Your results stay in this browser. After three passes in a row you'll see "You're ready".
- The NCDMV doesn't publish a time limit for this test, so the clock just shows how long you've taken.
Separate road sign recognition test on regulatory and warning signs: applicant identifies signs by color and shape and explains each. Regular Class C applicants must correctly identify 9 of 12 signs; Class A or B applicants must identify all signs.
About the real North Carolina NCDMV test
Automated computer test on rules of the road, taken at an NCDMV driver license office.
- Languages: Tests are offered in different languages. Language and ASL interpreters can be requested in advance. Ask NCDMV whether your language is offered.
- If you fail: Applicants who do not pass the knowledge test or driving test for a regular Class C license may retake the test in seven calendar days.
- Fee: NCDMV lists no separate test fee. Learner permit / Level 1 limited learner permit $25.50; Class C license $6.50 per year of validity.
- Audio or oral test: Oral or audio tests are available on request: an audio option lets applicants with reading difficulties listen to the questions with earphones.
On test day
- Bring the documents on the North Carolina what-to-bring list, and check you meet the minimum age (15 (Level 1 Limited Learner Permit, ages 15-17); 18+ for the adult learner permit).
- You'll take a vision test first: 20/40 or better in at least one eye for an unrestricted license; a corrective-lens restriction is required if acuity is less than 20/40 in either eye or both eyes together. Corrective lenses must then be worn at all times while driving; driving without them is treated the same as driving without a license. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them.
- Read each question and every answer to the end before choosing; watch for words like "not" and "except".
- Review the hardest questions the night before: exact numbers are where most points are lost.
Questions
How many questions are on the North Carolina permit test?
The North Carolina NCDMV doesn't publish the number of questions. You need 80% correct to pass.
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in North Carolina?
15 (Level 1 Limited Learner Permit, ages 15-17); 18+ for the adult learner permit. You then hold the permit for at least Level 1 permit must be held 9 months before applying for the Level 2 Limited Provisional License (minimum age 16) before the road test and 60 hours of supervised driving, including 10 at night.
What happens if I fail the North Carolina permit test?
You can retake it: Applicants who do not pass the knowledge test or driving test for a regular Class C license may retake the test in seven calendar days.
Can I take the North Carolina permit test in Spanish or another language?
Tests are offered in different languages. Language and ASL interpreters can be requested in advance. Ask NCDMV whether your language is offered.
What do I need to bring for the North Carolina permit test?
One document proving identity and date of birth (full name); Social Security card or one document proving your SSN; Proof of NC residency (one document; two if you are getting a REAL ID). Check with NCDMV before you go; If not born in the U.S., one document proving legal presence; Under 18: Driver Education Certificate (30 hours classroom plus 6 hours behind the wheel) and a parent or guardian present for testing (or written consent); and more (see the full list).
What is the vision requirement in North Carolina?
20/40 or better in at least one eye for an unrestricted license; a corrective-lens restriction is required if acuity is less than 20/40 in either eye or both eyes together. Corrective lenses must then be worn at all times while driving; driving without them is treated the same as driving without a license.
Test format from the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (N.C. Department of Transportation): official test information.