North Carolina practice permit test: question count and passing score

Updated October 2026

This page describes the Road Ready NC practice test — 25 questions, 20 correct to pass (80%). It is built to match the DMV written test format, but the DMV can change the real exam at any time. Confirm the current format on the DMV site before your test day.

Test format at a glance

25questions on the practice test

20 / 25correct answers to pass (80%)

0questions on road signs

What topics are covered?

The questions cover eight topic groups — road signs, right-of-way, speed limits, parking, seat belts, alcohol and drug rules, safe driving (following distance, weather, skids), and sharing the road with motorcycles and bicycles. State-specific questions test the local numbers: highway speed limit, BAC for under-21 drivers, minimum liability insurance, school-zone speed limits.

Retake rules

Retake rules are set by DMV and change over time — check the current rule on the DMV website before scheduling your next attempt.

Documents to bring

Document requirements are set by the DMV and vary by applicant. Use the DMV checklist as the source of truth — typically identity, Social Security number, residency proof and (when applicable) parental consent. The exact list and how many of each category you need is published on the DMV site.

How to prepare

Read the official North Carolina driver handbook on the DMV site.
Work through the practice questions on Road Ready NC one topic at a time.
Use the exam simulator to time yourself and build stamina.
Re-read the explanation for any question you miss.

Start the free North Carolina practice test →