Hardest North Carolina permit test questions
138 questions that need exact knowledge rather than common sense: the numbers (distances, speeds, fines, limits), the exceptions and the rules that are easy to mix up. We chose them from our North Carolina question bank for that reason; they're not statistics from the NCDMV.
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Question 1What is the minimum age to apply for a Level One Limited Learner Permit in North Carolina?
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C: 15. A Level One Limited Learner Permit is available to North Carolina residents who are at least 15 but under 18 and have completed approved driver education. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Graduated Licensing—Licensing for Drivers 15–18: Limited Learner Permit, page 14.
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Question 2How much driver education must a North Carolina applicant under 18 complete before testing for a learner permit?
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D: 30 hours of classroom and 6 hours behind the wheel. The approved driver education course must include at least 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Graduated Licensing—Licensing for Drivers 15–18: Limited Learner Permit, page 14.
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Question 3During the first six months with a Level One Limited Learner Permit, during which hours may you drive?
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A: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., with your supervising driver. For the first six months a Level One permit allows driving only between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., and always with the supervising driver. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Graduated Licensing—Licensing for Drivers 15–18: Limited Learner Permit, page 14.
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Question 4How long must you hold a Level One Limited Learner Permit before applying for a Limited Provisional License?
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B: 9 months. The Level One permit must be held for nine months before you can apply for the Level Two Limited Provisional License. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Graduated Licensing—Licensing for Drivers 15–18: Limited Learner Permit, page 14.
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Question 5How many hours of supervised driving must a Level One permit holder record in the driving log?
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A: At least 60 hours, with at least 10 at night. The driving log must show a minimum of 60 hours of driving, at least 10 of them at night, signed by the supervising driver. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Graduated Licensing—Licensing for Drivers 15–18: Limited Learner Permit, page 14.
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Question 6Which person may serve as a supervising driver for a North Carolina teen permit holder?
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C: A grandparent who has held a valid license for at least five years. A supervising driver must be a parent, grandparent, guardian or adult approved by the parent or guardian, must hold a valid license, and must have been licensed for at least five years. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Graduated Licensing—Licensing for Drivers 15–18: Supervising Driver, page 14.
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Question 7Before moving from Level One to Level Two, you must have had no convictions for moving violations, seat belt or cell phone infractions within the preceding:
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D: 6 months. To graduate to the next level you must have no moving violation, seat belt or cell phone convictions within the preceding six months. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Graduated Licensing—Licensing for Drivers 15–18: Limited Learner Permit, page 14.
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Question 8With a Level Two Limited Provisional License, when may you drive without supervision?
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D: From 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., and any time driving directly to or from work. Level Two drivers may drive unsupervised from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m. and at any time when driving directly to or from work or volunteer fire, rescue or EMS service. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Level Two Limited Provisional License, page 15.
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Question 9When driving unsupervised with a Level Two license, how many passengers under 21 who are not household members are normally allowed?
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C: One. Unsupervised Level Two drivers may carry one passenger under 21 who is not a household member (one more is allowed only when that student is being driven directly to or from school). North Carolina Driver Handbook: Level Two Limited Provisional License, page 15.
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Question 10A Level Two driver is driving unsupervised and every passenger lives in the driver's household. How many passengers under 21 may ride?
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A: There is no under-21 limit. There is no under-21 passenger limit when all passengers are members of the driver's household. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Level Two Limited Provisional License, page 15.
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Question 11Under North Carolina's 'Lose Control/Lose Your License' rule, how long does the license loss last when a student is suspended from school for more than 10 consecutive days?
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A: 12 months. A school suspension (or disciplinary alternative placement) of more than 10 consecutive days results in loss of license for 12 months. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Lose Control/Lose Your License, page 17.
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Question 12Within a 12-month period, a provisional licensee convicted of a second moving violation faces a suspension of:
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B: 30 days. Provisional licensees are suspended 30 days for a second moving violation within 12 months. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Provisional Licensee (under age 18), page 41.
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Question 13A provisional licensee convicted of a third moving violation within 12 months may be suspended for:
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C: 90 days. A third moving violation within a 12-month period brings a 90-day suspension for a provisional licensee. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Provisional Licensee (under age 18), page 41.
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Question 14A provisional licensee's fourth moving violation within 12 months can result in a suspension of:
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A: Six months. A fourth moving violation within 12 months brings a six-month suspension for a provisional licensee. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Provisional Licensee (under age 18), page 41.
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Question 15If you accumulate 7 driver license points in North Carolina, what may happen?
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C: You may be assigned to a driver improvement clinic. At seven points you may be assigned to a driver improvement clinic. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 16How many points are removed from your North Carolina driving record after you satisfactorily complete a driver improvement clinic?
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D: 3. Satisfactory completion of the driver improvement clinic deducts three points from your record. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 17Your North Carolina license may be suspended if you accumulate how many points within three years?
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C: 12. Accumulating 12 points within a three-year period can lead to suspension. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 18After your license is reinstated following a point suspension, how many points within three years can lead to a second suspension?
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D: 8. Eight points within three years after reinstatement can result in a second suspension. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 19How long is a first North Carolina license suspension under the point system?
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D: 60 days. Under the point system, the first suspension may be for 60 days, the second for 6 months and the third for 12 months. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 20A third suspension under the North Carolina point system can last:
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B: 12 months. The point system provides for 60 days on the first suspension, 6 months on the second, and 12 months on the third. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 21How many driver license points are assessed in a regular vehicle for passing a stopped school bus?
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C: 5. Passing a stopped school bus carries 5 points, the same as aggressive driving. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 22How many points does a reckless driving conviction add to a North Carolina driver license (non-commercial)?
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A: 4. Reckless driving is a 4-point offense, along with following too closely, illegal passing and driving on the wrong side of the road. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 23Running a red light in a passenger car results in how many driver license points?
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D: 3. Running through a red light, like running a stop sign, is a 3-point offense. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 36.
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Question 24How many points are assessed for failing to properly restrain a child in a restraint or seat belt?
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B: 2. Failure to properly restrain a child is a 2-point offense. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Points: Driver License Points, page 37.
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Question 25Your license will be revoked for at least 30 days if you are convicted of driving more than how many mph over the limit at a speed above 55 mph?
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B: 15 mph. Driving more than 15 mph over the speed limit at a speed higher than 55 mph brings at least a 30-day revocation. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Suspensions, page 38.
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Question 26The DMV may suspend your license for two convictions of speeding over 55 mph within what period?
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C: 12 months. Two convictions of speeding over 55 mph within 12 months can lead to suspension. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Suspensions, page 38.
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Question 27What is the license revocation for prearranged racing with another motor vehicle on the highway?
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D: 3 years. Prearranged racing carries a 3-year revocation, and the vehicle may be seized. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Suspensions, page 39.
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Question 28What is the standard North Carolina restoration fee for a suspension or revocation that is not alcohol related?
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B: $83.50. A restoration fee of $83.50 must be paid before a non-alcohol suspension or revocation can be cleared. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driver License Restoration, page 41.
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Question 29What restoration fee is required when a revocation results from a DWI conviction?
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A: $167.25. When the revocation results from a DWI conviction, the restoration fee is $167.25. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driver License Restoration, page 41.
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Question 30What are North Carolina's minimum liability insurance limits for a private passenger vehicle?
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C: $30,000 per person injured, $60,000 per crash for injuries, $25,000 property damage. North Carolina requires at least $30,000 for injury to one person, $60,000 for all injuries in a crash, and $25,000 for property damage. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Insurance and Financial Responsibility, page 101.
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Question 31A crash must be reported immediately to law enforcement when someone is injured or killed, or when the property damage appears to be at least:
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B: $1,000. You must immediately report any crash involving injury or death, or total apparent property damage of $1,000 or more. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Crashes, page 80.
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Question 32A new resident of North Carolina must get a North Carolina driver license within how many days of establishing residence?
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D: 60 days. A new resident has 60 days after establishing residence to obtain a North Carolina license or learner permit. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Moving to North Carolina, page 27.
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Question 33If your address changes, how soon must you notify NCDMV and obtain a duplicate license?
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C: Within 60 days. You must notify the Division within 60 days of an address change and obtain a duplicate license. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Renewal and Duplicate Licenses: Address Changes, page 30.
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Question 34A North Carolina driver license issued to someone age 18 to 65 is valid for how many years?
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D: 8 years. Licenses issued at ages 18 through 65 are valid for 8 years; those issued at 66 and older are valid for 5 years. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Duration and Renewal of License, page 30.
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Question 35How long is a North Carolina driver license valid if you are 66 or older when it is issued?
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D: 5 years. Licenses issued to drivers 66 and older are valid for 5 years. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Duration and Renewal of License, page 30.
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Question 36What BAC is the DWI limit for a person driving a commercial motor vehicle in North Carolina?
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B: 0.04 percent. For commercial motor vehicle drivers, a BAC of 0.04 or more establishes DWI. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driving While Impaired, page 33.
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Question 37Besides a BAC test result, how else can driving while impaired be proven in North Carolina?
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D: By showing the driver's physical or mental faculties were appreciably impaired. DWI can also be proven by showing the driver's physical or mental fitness was appreciably impaired by alcohol, drugs or both, regardless of BAC. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driving While Impaired, page 33.
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Question 38If you refuse a required chemical test after being charged with DWI, what happens to your license?
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A: Immediate revocation for at least 30 days plus a minimum 12-month DMV revocation. Refusal brings an immediate revocation of at least 30 days and an additional minimum 12-month revocation by DMV, and the refusal can be used as evidence in court. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driving While Impaired, page 33.
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Question 39If your chemical test shows a BAC of 0.08 or more, your license is revoked immediately for a minimum of:
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C: 30 days. A BAC of 0.08 or more (0.04 in a CMV) results in an immediate revocation of at least 30 days. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driving While Impaired, page 33.
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Question 40What is the license revocation for a first DWI conviction in North Carolina?
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A: One year. A first DWI conviction brings a mandatory one-year license revocation. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driving While Impaired: If you are convicted of DWI, page 34.
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Question 41A second DWI conviction, where the prior offense occurred within three years, results in a revocation of:
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D: Four years. A second conviction with a prior offense within three years brings a mandatory four-year revocation. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driving While Impaired: If you are convicted of DWI, page 34.
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Question 42When is a fourth DWI conviction treated as a felony in North Carolina?
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D: When the three prior convictions occurred within the past seven years. A fourth conviction brings permanent revocation and is a felony if the three prior DWI convictions occurred within the past seven years. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driving While Impaired: If you are convicted of DWI, page 34.
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Question 43A DWI conviction with a BAC of 0.15 or more requires which of the following?
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B: An ignition interlock device on the vehicle. A DWI conviction with a BAC of 0.15 or more, or another conviction within seven years, requires an ignition interlock device. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Blood Alcohol Concentration Restrictions, page 34.
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Question 44After a first DWI license restoration, what alcohol concentration restriction applies to the driver?
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A: 0.04. On the first restoration the alcohol concentration restriction is 0.04; on later restorations it is 0.00. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Blood Alcohol Concentration Restrictions, page 34.
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Question 45Research cited in the handbook shows the risk of a crash begins to increase at what BAC?
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C: 0.05 percent. The handbook notes crash risk increases when the alcohol level is 0.05 percent, and the risk of a fatal crash is even greater at 0.08. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Chapter 2 — Alcohol and the Law, page 33.
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Question 46What daily driving limit does the handbook suggest to help prevent drowsy driving?
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B: 300 to 400 miles per day. The handbook suggests trying to set a limit of 300-400 miles of driving per day. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Drowsy Driving, page 43.
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Question 47At 55 mph, how long does it take a vehicle to travel the length of a football field?
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A: About 3.7 seconds. The handbook notes that at 55 mph a vehicle covers the length of a football field in 3.7 seconds, so even a brief 'mini' sleep is dangerous. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Drowsy Driving, page 42.
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Question 48In North Carolina, a child under age 8 who weighs less than how many pounds must ride in a weight-appropriate child restraint?
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D: 80 pounds. A child under 8 and weighing less than 80 pounds must be secured in a weight-appropriate child passenger restraint system. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Child Seats, page 46.
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Question 49If a vehicle has an active passenger-side air bag and a rear seat, a child under age 5 and under 40 pounds must ride:
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C: In the rear seat, unless the restraint is designed for use with a front air bag. A child under 5 and under 40 pounds must be secured in the rear seat in that situation, unless the child restraint is designed for use with a front air bag. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Child Seats, page 46.
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Question 50Every driver transporting passengers younger than what age must make sure each one is properly secured in a child restraint or seat belt?
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B: 16. Drivers must ensure every passenger under 16 is properly secured in a child restraint system or seat belt. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Child Seats, page 46.
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Question 51How fast can an air bag come out of the dashboard in a crash?
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B: Up to 200 miles per hour. An air bag deploys at up to 200 mph, which is why children and people seated too close to it can be hurt. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Children and Air Bags, page 46.
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Question 52According to the handbook's child safety points, children of what age and under should ride buckled up in a rear seat?
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B: 12 and under. Children age 12 and under should ride buckled up in a rear seat. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Children and Air Bags: Child Safety Points, page 47.
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Question 53North Carolina law prohibits children under what age from riding in the open bed of a pickup truck (with some exceptions)?
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C: 16. Children under 16 may not ride in the open bed or cargo area of a pickup truck unless an exemption applies, such as an adult supervising them there. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Law on Transporting Children in the Back of a Pick-up Truck, page 47.
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Question 54What is the fine for violating North Carolina's law on children riding in the open bed of a pickup truck?
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C: $25. Violators receive a $25 fine; the violation is an infraction with no court costs, license points or insurance surcharge. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Law on Transporting Children in the Back of a Pick-up Truck, page 48.
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Question 55On a sunny day, the temperature inside a parked car can rise about how much higher than the outside temperature?
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D: About 40 to 50 degrees. The temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise approximately 40-50 degrees above the outside temperature, even with a window slightly open. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Weather Risk, page 48.
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Question 56When you use high-beam headlights at night, you should be able to see a person how far away?
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C: 200 feet. High beams should let you see a person 200 feet away; low beams should let you see someone 75 feet away. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Vehicle Equipment: Lights, page 67.
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Question 57With low-beam headlights, you should be able to see a person how far ahead?
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A: 75 feet. Low-beam headlights should let you see someone 75 feet away. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Vehicle Equipment: Lights, page 67.
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Question 58North Carolina law requires taillights to be what color and visible from at least what distance?
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D: Red, visible for at least 500 feet. Taillights must be red and visible for at least 500 feet. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Vehicle Equipment: Lights, page 67.
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Question 59The light on your rear license plate must make the numbers visible from at least:
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B: 50 feet. The law requires a white light on the license plate making the numbers visible for at least 50 feet. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Vehicle Equipment: Lights, page 67.
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Question 60A vehicle's horn must be loud enough to be heard from at least:
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D: 200 feet. Every licensed motor vehicle must have a working horn that can be heard for at least 200 feet. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Vehicle Equipment: Horns and Sirens, page 69.
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Question 61When fully pressed, how far from the floor should the brake pedal be at a minimum?
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A: At least one-third of its original distance from the floor. The brake pedal should stay at least one-third of its original distance from the floor when fully pressed; otherwise the brakes need checking. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Vehicle Equipment: Brakes, page 68.
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Question 62In North Carolina, a tire is considered unsafe when its tread depth is less than:
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D: 1/16 inch. Tires are unsafe if cut, cracked or worn to the cord, or with tread separation, chunking or less than 1/16-inch tread depth. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Vehicle Equipment: Tires, page 68.
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Question 63What window tint light transmittance is the minimum allowed on a North Carolina vehicle?
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A: 35 percent. The allowable light transmittance for tinted windows is no less than 35%. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Vehicle Emissions & Safety Inspection: Window Tinting, page 104.
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Question 64What is the penalty for failing to yield to a pedestrian while turning right on red in North Carolina?
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B: Not less than $100 and not more than $500. Failure to yield to a pedestrian when turning right on red carries a penalty of $100 to $500. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Traffic Signals, page 82.
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Question 65When both a U-turning driver and an opposing right-turning driver have green arrows at the same time, who must yield?
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A: The U-turning driver. U-turning traffic should yield to opposing right-turning traffic when both have their green arrows. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Traffic Signals, page 82.
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Question 66What does a flashing yellow arrow mean?
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A: Turns are allowed, but you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. With a flashing yellow arrow, the turn is permitted but you must first yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Flashing Yellow Arrow Traffic Signal Heads, page 83.
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Question 67A ramp meter signal at a freeway entrance is dark. What should you do?
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D: Proceed without stopping and merge or yield as normal. When the ramp meter is dark you may proceed without stopping and merge onto the freeway as conditions allow. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Ramp Meter Traffic Signals, page 84.
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Question 68A pedestrian hybrid beacon is flashing red after pedestrians have begun crossing. What may drivers do?
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C: After a complete stop, proceed once the pedestrians have cleared the crossing. During the flashing red phase, drivers stay stopped until pedestrians have cleared, then may move after first coming to a complete stop. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Hybrid Beacons, page 84.
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Question 69On a divided highway, a single solid yellow line normally marks the left edge of the road. If you see a solid yellow line on your right edge, what does it mean?
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B: You are traveling in the wrong direction. Solid white lines mark the right edge and solid yellow lines mark the left edge on divided highways; seeing the reverse means you are going the wrong way. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Pavement Markings, page 90.
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Question 70For what purpose may a two-way center left-turn lane be used?
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B: Only for left turns by traffic in either direction. The two-way left-turn lane is reserved for left turns in both directions and must not be used for passing or merging. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Pavement Markings, page 90.
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Question 71What do red reflective pavement markers indicate to a driver?
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B: You are moving the wrong way. Red pavement markers indicate wrong-way movement for motorists. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Pavement Markings, page 90.
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Question 72In some areas, what do blue reflective pavement markers indicate?
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A: The location of nearby fire hydrants or water supplies. Blue reflective markers can show the location of nearby fire hydrants or water supplies for firefighters. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Pavement Markings, page 90.
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Question 73How far from the intersection is a stop sign usually posted?
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D: Six to 50 feet. The stop sign is usually posted six to 50 feet from the intersection. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Traffic Signs: Regulatory Signs, page 85.
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Question 74What shape are North Carolina state route markers?
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C: Diamond. North Carolina route markers are diamond shaped; U.S. route markers are shields. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Traffic Signs: Guide/Informational Signs, page 87.
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Question 75What shape are North Carolina secondary road signs?
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A: Rectangular. N.C. secondary road signs are rectangular. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Traffic Signs: Guide/Informational Signs, page 87.
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Question 76When are you not required to yield to an approaching emergency vehicle in North Carolina?
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B: When traveling in the opposite direction on a four-lane limited-access highway with a center median. All vehicles must yield to an emergency vehicle, except vehicles traveling the opposite direction on a four-lane limited-access highway with a center median. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Emergency and Law Enforcement Vehicles, page 50.
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Question 77How close may you park to an emergency vehicle stopped to investigate a crash or give assistance?
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B: No closer than 100 feet. Do not park within 100 feet of an emergency vehicle stopped to investigate an accident or give assistance. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Emergency and Law Enforcement Vehicles, page 50.
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Question 78When following fire trucks responding to a fire alarm, how close may you drive or park?
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C: No closer than one block. Do not drive or park closer than one block from fire trucks responding to a fire alarm, and never drive over a fire hose. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Emergency and Law Enforcement Vehicles, page 50.
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Question 79On a highway with two or more lanes in your direction, what must you do when passing an emergency or service vehicle stopped within 12 feet of the road with warning lights on?
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D: Move into a lane not next to the stopped vehicle, if possible. North Carolina's move-over law requires moving into a lane not nearest the stopped emergency or service vehicle and staying there until safely past. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Emergency and Law Enforcement Vehicles: Move Over, page 51.
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Question 80When may a driver traveling the same direction as a funeral procession pass it?
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D: When the highway is marked for two or more lanes in the procession's direction. You may not pass a funeral procession going your direction unless the highway has two or more marked lanes in that direction. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Funeral Processions, page 54.
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Question 81A funeral procession is going through a red light and your light is green. What should you do?
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A: Do not enter the intersection unless you can do so safely without crossing the procession's path. Even facing a green light, you may not enter the intersection unless it can be done safely without crossing the procession's path, and you may not drive between procession vehicles. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Funeral Processions, page 54.
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Question 82If you choose to yield to a funeral procession coming toward you, how must you do it?
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A: Reduce speed, or stop completely off the roadway. Drivers going the opposite direction may yield by reducing speed or stopping completely off the roadway so others can keep traveling in their lane. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Funeral Processions, page 54.
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Question 83The law requires you to sound your horn when a pedestrian may be affected by your:
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B: Turn, stop, or start from a parked position. Drivers must use the horn whenever a pedestrian may be affected by a turn, stop or start from a parked position; if the pedestrian does not stop, the driver must. North Carolina Driver Handbook: The Driver and Pedestrian, page 49.
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Question 84On a divided highway of four or more lanes with a median, a school bus stops to load children. Who must stop?
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A: Only traffic following the bus. On a divided highway of four or more lanes with a median separation, only traffic following the bus must stop. North Carolina Driver Handbook: School Buses, page 50.
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Question 85On a four-lane roadway without a median, a school bus stops for passengers. Who must stop?
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B: All traffic from both directions. On a four-lane roadway without a median separation, all traffic from both directions must stop. North Carolina Driver Handbook: School Buses, page 50.
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Question 86On a roadway of four lanes or more with a center turning lane, a school bus stops for passengers. Who must stop?
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C: Only traffic following the bus. On a roadway of four lanes or more with a center turning lane, only traffic following the bus must stop. North Carolina Driver Handbook: School Buses, page 50.
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Question 87On a two-lane roadway with a center turning lane, a school bus stops for passengers. Who must stop?
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A: All traffic from both directions. On a two-lane road with a center turning lane, all traffic in both directions must stop. North Carolina Driver Handbook: School Buses, page 50.
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Question 88What is the maximum speed limit for a school bus in North Carolina?
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D: 45 mph. The maximum speed limit for a school bus is 45 mph (school activity buses: 55 mph). North Carolina Driver Handbook: School Buses, page 49.
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Question 89At night, North Carolina law requires a bicycle to have a front light visible for at least:
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A: 300 feet. A bicycle at night must have a front light visible for at least 300 feet and a red rear light or reflector visible for at least 200 feet. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Bicycles: Be Visible, page 92.
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Question 90Bicycle riders and passengers under what age must wear an approved bicycle helmet in North Carolina?
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C: 16. All bicycle riders and passengers under 16 must wear an approved protective bicycle helmet. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Bicycles: Be Visible, page 92.
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Question 91When passing a moped, how far to the left must you stay?
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A: At least two feet. A moped travels on the right side of the lane; to pass one you must stay at least two feet to the left. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Motorcycles and Mopeds, page 94.
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Question 92Under North Carolina law, a moped's top speed may not exceed:
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D: 30 mph. A moped has a motor of no more than 50 cc, no external shifting device, and a top speed that cannot exceed 30 mph. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Motorcycles and Mopeds: Mopeds, page 95.
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Question 93What is the minimum age to operate a moped on a public road in North Carolina?
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B: 16. You must be at least 16 years old to operate a moped on a public roadway or public vehicular area. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Motorcycles and Mopeds: Mopeds, page 95.
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Question 94How far behind a tractor-trailer can a truck driver's rear blind spot (No-Zone) extend?
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D: Up to 200 feet. Truck No-Zones extend up to 20 feet in front of the cab, along both sides, and up to 200 feet behind the trailer. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Trucks and Other Vehicles: No-Zones, page 94.
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Question 95Farm equipment must have a rear red light visible for up to how many feet (or two red reflectors instead)?
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B: 500 feet. Farm equipment must have a front white light and a rear red light visible up to 500 feet; two red reflectors at least four inches across can replace the rear light. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Safe Driving Around Farm Equipment, page 53.
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Question 96On which roads is farm equipment NOT legally entitled to travel in North Carolina?
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B: Interstates. Farm equipment may legally travel on most North Carolina roads, except interstates. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Safe Driving Around Farm Equipment, page 54.
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Question 97Unless otherwise posted, what is the speed limit in North Carolina cities and towns?
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B: 35 mph. Unless another limit is posted, the speed limit in cities and towns is 35 mph. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Adjusting Your Speed to Driving Conditions: Maximum Speed Limits, page 55.
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Question 98What is the maximum speed limit outside cities and towns in North Carolina, unless otherwise posted?
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C: 55 mph. The handbook's maximum speed limit table lists 55 mph outside cities and towns. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Adjusting Your Speed to Driving Conditions: Maximum Speed Limits, page 55.
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Question 99What is the maximum speed limit listed in the handbook for North Carolina interstates?
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D: 70 mph. The maximum speed limit table lists 70 mph for interstates. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Adjusting Your Speed to Driving Conditions: Maximum Speed Limits, page 55.
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Question 100What is the maximum speed limit for a school activity bus in North Carolina?
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B: 55 mph. School activity buses may go up to 55 mph, while school buses are limited to 45 mph. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Adjusting Your Speed to Driving Conditions: Maximum Speed Limits, page 55.
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Question 101Under ideal conditions, about how many feet does a vehicle traveling 55 mph need to stop completely?
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C: About 211 feet. Even in ideal conditions, a vehicle at 55 mph needs approximately 211 feet to stop completely. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Adjusting Your Speed to Driving Conditions, page 55.
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Question 102Studies cited in the handbook show that a vehicle moving well below the posted speed limit is:
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A: More likely to cause or be involved in a crash. A vehicle moving considerably below the posted limit is much more likely to cause or be involved in a crash than one moving at normal speed. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Adjusting Your Speed to Driving Conditions, page 55.
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Question 103Driving in a highway work zone faster than the posted work-zone limit:
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D: Is unlawful, and an extra penalty applies when the penalty is posted on a sign at the start of the zone. It is unlawful to exceed the posted work-zone limit, and an additional penalty applies if a sign at the beginning of the work zone lists it. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Work Zones, page 72.
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Question 104When backing your vehicle, how fast should you go?
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C: Very slowly, not more than 10 mph. Back very slowly, not more than 10 mph, because a vehicle is harder to control and stop when backing. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Backing, page 58.
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Question 105Before passing on a two-lane road, what does the handbook say you should do after signaling?
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C: Blow the horn to signal the driver ahead. The passing steps are: look ahead and behind, signal, and blow the horn to signal the driver ahead. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Passing, page 57.
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Question 106How far to the left of the vehicle being passed must a passing driver be, by law?
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D: At least two feet. The law requires the passing driver to pass at least two feet to the left of the vehicle being passed. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Passing, page 57.
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Question 107Passing is unsafe and usually illegal on a hill or curve where you cannot see at least how far ahead?
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C: 500 feet. Do not pass on any curve or hill where you cannot see at least 500 feet ahead. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Passing, page 57.
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Question 108On a three-lane highway, where may you pass?
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D: Only in the center lane, where it is marked for passing in your direction. On three-lane highways, pass only in the center lane where it is marked for passing in your direction (except when the vehicle in the center lane is turning left). North Carolina Driver Handbook: Passing: Passing on the right, page 57.
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Question 109If you speed up while being passed and a crash with injury or property damage results, you may be charged with:
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B: A misdemeanor. Increasing speed and failing to give way to a passing vehicle is a misdemeanor if a crash with injury or property damage results. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Passing: When your vehicle is being passed, page 57.
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Question 110In North Carolina, you must signal at least how far before turning or stopping in normal conditions?
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B: The last 100 feet. Signal at least the last 100 feet before turning or stopping. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Hand Signals: Flashing Turn Signals, page 71.
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Question 111If the speed limit is 45 mph or more, you must signal at least how far before turning?
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B: The last 200 feet. Where the speed limit is 45 mph or more, signal at least the last 200 feet before turning. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Hand Signals: Flashing Turn Signals, page 71.
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Question 112On a four-lane highway separated by a median wider than how many feet is each crossing a separate intersection?
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A: 30 feet. On four-lane highways separated by a median of more than 30 feet, each crossing is a separate intersection. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Special Driving Situations: Intersections, page 59.
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Question 113In a single-lane roundabout, how far around do you go to make what would be a left turn?
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D: Three-quarters of the way around. You go a quarter of the way around to turn right, halfway to go straight, three-quarters for a left, and full circle for a U-turn. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Roundabouts: Single-Lane Roundabout, page 61.
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Question 114What speeds do modern roundabouts require of vehicles?
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B: 15 to 20 mph. Modern roundabouts are smaller than older traffic circles and require lower speeds of 15-20 mph. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Roundabouts: Why A Roundabout?, page 60.
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Question 115How close to a fire hydrant may you park in North Carolina?
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A: No closer than 15 feet. Do not park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or the entrance to a fire station. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Parking, page 58.
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Question 116You may not park within how many feet of the curb line of an intersecting street?
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C: 25 feet. Do not park within 25 feet of the curb line of an intersecting street (or 15 feet of the right-of-way lines if there is no curb). North Carolina Driver Handbook: Parking, page 58.
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Question 117Parking on the shoulder of a highway is illegal unless approaching drivers can see the vehicle from both directions for at least:
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D: 200 feet. Shoulder parking is against the law unless the vehicle can be seen from both directions for at least 200 feet. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Parking, page 58.
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Question 118Outside city limits, how close to a fire or fire truck may you park?
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B: No closer than 400 feet. Do not park within one block of a fire or fire truck in city limits, or within 400 feet outside the city. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Parking, page 58.
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Question 119North Carolina law requires headlights from sunset to sunrise and whenever visibility is:
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D: 400 feet or less. Headlights are required from sunset to sunrise and when visibility is 400 feet or less. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Night Driving, page 73.
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Question 120When must North Carolina drivers turn on their headlights in bad weather?
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C: Whenever they are using windshield wipers due to inclement weather. All North Carolina motorists must use headlights whenever they use windshield wipers because of bad weather. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Windshield Wipers/Headlights, page 75.
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Question 121How much farther can stopping distances be on slippery pavement than on dry pavement?
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A: Two to 10 times farther. Stopping distances on slippery pavement increase from two to 10 times compared with dry pavement. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Rain, page 74.
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Question 122When are roads most slippery after rain begins?
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B: During the first 10 to 15 minutes. For the first 10 to 15 minutes of rain, water mixes with oil, dirt and rubber to create a slick surface. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Rain, page 74.
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Question 123How much slower than on dry pavement does the handbook recommend driving on wet pavement?
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C: At least 5 to 10 mph slower. Drive at least five to 10 mph slower on wet pavement than on dry pavement. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Rain, page 74.
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Question 124Hydroplaning can begin at speeds as low as:
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C: 30 mph. Hydroplaning can start at speeds as low as 30 mph in water little more than 1/8 inch deep. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Hydroplaning, page 74.
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Question 125According to the handbook, how much fast-moving water can float a car or turn it over?
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A: 12 inches. Reports show 6 inches of fast-moving water can sweep a car off the road and 12 inches can float a car or turn it over. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Driving in Flood Conditions, page 75.
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Question 126On packed snow, the handbook recommends reducing your speed by:
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A: More than half. Reduce speed by more than half on packed snow and slow to a crawl on ice. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Snow and Ice, page 75.
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Question 127On snowy or icy roads, allow at least how much stopping distance?
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A: Three times the normal distance. Allow at least three times the normal stopping distance when slowing on snow or ice. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Snow and Ice, page 75.
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Question 128When approaching a railroad crossing with signals, how close to the nearest rail must you stop?
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A: Within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet. When a train is signaled, approaching or visible, stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Railroad Crossing Safety: § 20-142.1, page 62.
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Question 129You are on the tracks when crossing lights begin flashing and the gates start to come down. What should you do?
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A: Keep moving across; the gate is flexible and will not trap you. Do not stop or back up: keep moving. The gates cannot trap you; drive through if the far gate comes down. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Railroad Crossing Safety, page 63.
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Question 130If your car starts to skid, which way should you turn the steering wheel?
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A: In the direction the rear of the vehicle is skidding. Ease off the accelerator and turn the steering wheel in the direction the rear of the vehicle is skidding, then straighten as it recovers. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Emergencies: Skids, page 79.
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Question 131Under North Carolina law, a person who stops to give aid at a crash scene is:
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C: Protected from civil liability except for intentional wrongdoing. The law protects people who stop and render aid from civil liability, except for intentional wrongdoing or unruly conduct. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Crashes, page 79.
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Question 132When leaving an interstate, when should you slow down?
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B: After entering the deceleration lane. Signal well in advance and enter the deceleration lane without slowing, then slow to the posted exit speed. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Interstate Highways, page 66.
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Question 133On a long interstate trip, how often does the handbook suggest stopping at rest areas?
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C: At least once every 100 miles. Stop at rest areas frequently, preferably at least once every 100 miles. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Interstate Highways, page 66.
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Question 134You realize you have entered an interstate going the wrong direction. What should you do?
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A: Pull onto the right shoulder and stop, then turn around when it is clear. Pull over to the right shoulder and stop; when clear, turn around and head the proper way. Watch for DO NOT ENTER signs. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Entering and Exiting the Interstate, page 67.
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Question 135How much clear roadway may you need to safely pass a vehicle towing a trailer?
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C: Up to a half mile. Use extreme caution when passing a trailer and towing vehicle; it may take a half mile of clear roadway. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Recreational Vehicles and Trailers, page 94.
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Question 136When is it advisable to pass slow-moving farm equipment?
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D: When the operator moves off the road to let traffic pass. Be patient; the only advisable time to pass is when the operator moves off the road to let traffic by. A left-hand signal may mean the farmer is turning left. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Safe Driving Around Farm Equipment, page 53.
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Question 137How far ahead on the road do good drivers try to look?
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A: 10 to 15 seconds ahead (about one city block). Good drivers try to see 10 to 15 seconds ahead, about one city block, to avoid last-minute moves. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Defensive Driving: Scanning, page 70.
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Question 138About how often should you check your mirrors while driving?
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C: About every 10 seconds. Check your mirrors about every 10 seconds to see if any vehicle is following too closely. North Carolina Driver Handbook: Defensive Driving: Scanning, page 70.
Answer every question to see your score.
Remembering the numbers
Most mistakes on the North Carolina NCDMV test are about specifics: how many feet before a turn to signal, how far to park from a hydrant, the alcohol limit for drivers under 21. Write the numbers from these questions on a card and review them before the test, then take the exam simulator.