North Carolina uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system for teen drivers. This means teens progress through three levels, each with specific requirements and restrictions, before earning a full license.
Limited Learner Permit
Level 1 • Ages 15-17
Requirements:
- Be at least 15 years old
- Complete state-approved driver education course
- Pass vision and written knowledge tests
- Parent/guardian must be present and sign
Documents Required:
- • Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport)
- • Social Security verification
- • Two proofs of NC residency
- • Driver education certificate (DL-8A)
Restrictions:
- • Must be supervised by licensed adult (21+) in front seat
- • No driving between 9 PM and 5 AM
- • All occupants must wear seat belts
Limited Provisional License
Level 2 • Requires Road Test
Requirements:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Hold Level 1 permit for at least 12 consecutive months
- No moving violations or seat belt infractions in past 6 months
- Complete 60 hours supervised driving (10+ at night) — logged on Form DL-4A
- Pass the road test
- Parent/guardian must be present
Road Test Appointments Are Hard to Get!
Teen road test slots are among the most competitive appointments at the NC DMV. They're often booked 60-90 days out. Our alert service can help you catch cancellations.
Restrictions:
- • No driving between 9 PM and 5 AM (exceptions for work, school, emergencies)
- • No more than 1 passenger under 21 (exceptions for family members)
- • No cell phone use (even hands-free)
Full Provisional License
Level 3 • No Road Test Required
Requirements:
- Hold Level 2 license for at least 6 consecutive months
- No violations in past 6 months
- Complete additional 12 hours driving (6+ at night) — logged on Form DL-4B
What's Different:
- • No road test required for this upgrade
- • Fewer passenger restrictions
- • Nighttime restrictions still apply until age 18
Get Teen DMV Appointment Alerts
Teen permit and road test appointments are the hardest to find. Our Fast Lane service monitors 24/7 and sends instant SMS alerts when slots open up.
- Teen Level 1 Permit appointments
- Teen Level 2 Road Test appointments
- Teen Level 3 upgrade appointments
- Instant SMS alerts (not just email)
Cancel anytime. Availability isn't guaranteed — cancellations are first-come, first-served.
Teen Driver FAQs
How do I get alerts for teen permit or road tests?
Our Fast Lane service includes all teen appointment types. Sign up and we'll send instant SMS alerts when any teen-related slots open up at offices near your ZIP code.
Does a parent need to be present?
Yes. A parent or legal guardian must accompany teens under 18 to all DMV appointments and sign the application.
What if my teen fails the road test?
They can retake it, but must wait at least a week and schedule a new appointment. This is another reason why alerts are helpful — rebooking can take weeks otherwise.
Help Your Teen Get on the Road Faster
Don't let DMV appointment backlogs delay your teen's license. Get instant alerts when slots open up.
Get Fast Lane Alerts - $19.99/moThis is a privately owned service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.