Photo: NCDOTcommunications, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The North Carolina road test checks that you can drive safely in real traffic and handle a set list of maneuvers, scored by an NCDMV driver license examiner. Teens take it to move from a Level 1 permit to a Level 2 license; adults take it as part of the full first-time examination. Here is what is on it and how to prepare.
Key facts (North Carolina rule 19A NCAC 03B .0201)
- Required maneuvers: quick stop, turnabout, backing, approach to a corner, right turns, left turns, traffic lights, use of vehicle equipment, starts, use of lanes, use of brakes, following and paying attention.
- Pass or fail depends on how well you carry out those maneuvers.
- Parallel parking is not on the list of required maneuvers.
What is on the NC road test?
The 13 items in the state rule fall into two groups.
Set maneuvers
| Maneuver | What to show |
|---|---|
| Quick stop | Stop smoothly and quickly in a straight line when told, without skidding or swerving. |
| Turnabout | Turn the car to face the other way in a limited space (often a three-point turn). Check all around before each movement. |
| Backing | Reverse in a straight line at a slow, controlled speed, looking over your shoulder through the rear window. |
| Approach corner | Slow down, check for traffic and pedestrians, signal and position correctly before the intersection. |
On-road driving
- Right and left turns: signal early, turn from and into the correct lane.
- Traffic lights: stop fully at red, behind the line; handle yellow sensibly.
- Use of vehicle equipment: signals, lights, wipers, mirrors, parking brake. Expect to be asked to show these.
- Starts: check mirrors and blind spot, signal, pull away smoothly.
- Use of lanes: stay centered in your lane and change lanes only after checking.
- Use of brakes: smooth, early braking with no sudden stops.
- Following: keep a safe gap behind the vehicle ahead.
- Paying attention: scan for hazards, signs and pedestrians the whole time.
Is there parallel parking on the NC road test?
Parallel parking is not one of the required maneuvers in North Carolina’s road test rule. You should still learn to park, because you will need it as a driver. See US parking rules for new drivers.
Before you book: teen checklist
- You are at least 16 and have held your Level 1 permit for 9 months.
- No moving violation, seat belt or mobile phone convictions in the last 6 months.
- Your 60-hour Level 1 driving log is complete, with at least 10 hours at night. See NC driving log guide.
Ask NCDMV which documents to bring for the test car, such as proof of insurance and registration, and whether your driver education provider can give the Level 2 road test. More in NC graduated license Levels 1, 2 and 3.
How to pass: what the examiner looks for
- Full stops. Stop completely, behind the line, at every stop sign and red light.
- Head checks. Make mirror and shoulder checks visible before every start, lane change and backing.
- Speed control. Stay at or below the limit and slow for conditions. See the basic speed law.
- Practice the four set maneuvers in a quiet parking lot until they feel routine.
- Know your car. Find the hazard lights, defroster and headlights before test day.
More: common reasons people fail the US driving test.
Common questions
What is a turnabout on the NC road test?
Turning the car around to face the opposite direction in a tight space, usually with a three-point turn.
Do adults take the same road test?
Yes. First-time applicants of any age take the full examination, including the road test.
Do I need a road test if I am moving from another state?
If your out-of-state license is valid or expired less than two years, the rule requires only the sign and vision tests. If it expired more than two years ago, you take the full examination. See moving to North Carolina.
Who scores the NC road test?
An NCDMV driver license examiner, based on how you perform the required maneuvers.
What if I fail?
Ask the examiner what went wrong and when you can retest, then practice those exact items.
Back to: learning to drive in North Carolina. Other states: US road test by state.
Sources
- North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings, “19A NCAC 03B .0201 Driver’s License Examination and Online Renewal” (reports.oah.state.nc.us)
- North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-11 (Issuance of limited learner permit and provisional license)