Graduated Driver License
Graduated driver licensing systems (GDLS) are designed to provide new drivers with driving experience and skills gradually over time in low-risk environments. There are three steps through which new drivers pass.
- Limited Learner Permit
- Limited Provisional License
- Full Provisional License
Graduated drivers’ licensing restricts nighttime and unsupervised driving during initial stages, but lifts restrictions with time and further testing of the individual, eventually concluding with the individual attaining a full driver’s license.
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Requirements & Restrictions
Driver Education Course
All Teen Driver Courses meet or exceed North Carolina's requirements for obtaining a Learner Permit. Â
Enrollment Requirements:
- 14.5 yrs or older (Born before September 2010)
- Pursuing a High School Diploma or GED
- Birth Certificate or Passport
Driver Education Courses are comprised of two phases:
Phase 1: Classroom – Minimum of 30 Hours of Instruction. During Phase 1 you must receive an eye exam.Â
Phase 2: Behind-The-Wheel Training - Minimum of 6 HoursÂ
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ÂLimited Learner Permit
(Ages 15-17)
Upon completion of your driver course, you will need to schedule an appointment at your local DMV, and meet the following requirements:
- 15 yrs - 17yrs of Age
- Pass written, sign, and vision tests
- Driver Education Certificate (Received from Driving School)
- Driver Eligibility Certificate (Received From High School)
- 1 Document verifying identity and date of birth
- Social Security Card or Document Proving you have a Social Security number
- One Document proving North Carolina Residency
Privileges
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Supervised driving restricted to 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. for the first six months (9 Months Effective January 1 2024); thereafter, a supervising driver is still required.​
Restrictions
- Use of mobile devices prohibited
Limited Provisional License
(Ages 16-17)
RequirementsÂ
- Be 16 to 17 years old
- Have a limited learner permit for 9 months (Effective Jan. 1 2024)
- Completed and logged at least 60 hours of driving
- No convictions of moving violations or seat belt/mobile phone infractions within the last six months
- Provide proof of liability insurance coverage from a provider licensed to do business in North Carolina
- Pass a road test
Privileges
Unsupervised driving from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. and to/from work or any volunteer fire, rescue or emergency medical service. After 9 p.m. until 5 a.m., a supervising driver is required.​
Restrictions
- When driving unsupervised, there may be one passenger that is under 21 that is not a member of the same household as the driver if they are being driven directly to or from school. Additionally, there may be one passenger under 21 in the vehicle that is a member of the same household as the driver.
- Use of mobile devices prohibited
Full Provisional License
(Ages 16-17)
Requirements:
- Be 16 to 17 years old
- Maintained a limited provisional license for at least 6 months
- Have no convictions of motor vehicle moving violations or seat belt/mobile telephone infractions within the last 6 months
- Completed and logged at least 12 hours of driving
- Must pass a road test
PrivilegesÂ
- Unsupervised driving at any time.
Restrictions
- Use of mobile devices prohibited