North Carolina DMV Permit Practice Tests (2025)

Our North Carolina DMV practice tests help you focus on the most important topics to pass your permit test with confidence. By gradually exposing you to more challenging concepts, you’ll learn quickly and retain the information better. Start practicing today!

Not your state?

easy

Practice test #1

This practice test is a great place to start. It will test your understanding of fundamental driving rules. Based on the North Carolina Driver Handbook, the questions are designed to closely resemble those on the actual exam.

Questions: 20

medium

Practice test #2

Ready to test your road signs knowledge? This road signs practice test challenges you to accurately identify a wide variety of signs in a test-like format.

Questions: 25

hard

Practice test #3

Challenge your knowledge and ensure you’re fully prepared. This test includes complex and in-depth questions to test how well you’ve mastered North Carolina traffic laws and road rules. Use this test to push your understanding to the next level.

Questions: 30

exam simulator

This is as close to the real North Carolina DMV permit test as it gets. With 25 questions covering the same topics you’ll encounter on the actual exam, this test mimics the real deal. You’ll need 20 correct answers to pass, just as on the real exam.

Questions: 25

Pass rate: 20/25

North Carolina Permit Test & Driver’s License FAQ

  • How many questions are on the NC permit test?

    The North Carolina permit test consists of 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 questions correctly to get a passing score (80%).
  • What is tested on the permit test?

    The North Carolina permit test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices.
  • What is the best way to prepare for the NC permit test?

    The best way to prepare is to study the handbook and then use practice tests to solidify your knowledge. Zutobi is a comprehensive study tool with an easy-to-understand NC handbook, video lessons, and unlimited tests to help you prepare confidently and effectively.
  • What happens after I pass the permit test?

    Once you pass the permit test, you’ll receive your learner’s permit and can begin driving under the supervision of a licensed driver.
  • How do I know if I’m ready for the test?

    Zutobi tracks your progress and gives you personalized feedback. If you’re consistently scoring well on our practice tests, you’re likely ready for the real exam!
  • What is a North Carolina learner's permit?

    A permit allows new drivers to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed adult. You must be at least 15 years old to apply. To apply, a state-approved driver’s education course is required (30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training).
  • Are there any driving restrictions with a permit?

    You must always have a licensed driver in the front passenger seat. Cell phones are strictly forbidden while driving unless an emergency.

    • During the first six months, you cannot drive between 9 PM and 5 AM unless accompanied by a supervising driver.
    • During the second six months, you can drive at any time with your supervising driver.
  • How can you obtain a driver's license in North Carolina?

    After holding your learner's permit for at least 12 months (if under 18), you can apply for a limited provisional license by passing the road skills test and signs test. You must have completed 60 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night. Your provisional license will automatically convert to a full license once you turn 18.
  • Are there any restrictions with a provisional license?

    Provisional license holders under 18 cannot drive between 9 PM and 5 AM unless with a supervising driver. Also, more than one passenger under 21 is not allowed (unless immediate family members).