DMV Driver Handbook in North Carolina

SUMMARY: North Carolina Driver Handbook

The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides access to the driver handbook, commercial driver handbook, and motorcycle manual all online. If you're interested in traffic laws, see the North Carolina vehicle code.

Scroll down to find links to various NC DMV handbooks and driving manuals and publications.

North Carolina Driver's Handbook

Before applying for your NC driver's license, you'll need to prepare for the written test by studying the traffic rules and regulations in North Carolina.

All of this information is found in the North Carolina Driver's Handbook (REV 2022)—a comprehensive guide to driving in the state. Topics covered in the DMV handbook include:

  • Defensive driving techniques.
  • NC driver's license exams.
  • Basic driving skills.
  • Driving under hazardous conditions.
  • Traffic signals, signs, and pavement markings.
  • Vehicle registration and titling.
  • Required vehicle inspections in North Carolina.
  • Registering as an organ donor.

The NC driver manual is also offered in Spanish—see the Carolina del Norte Manual de Conductores (REV 2022). Visit your local North Carolina DMV office for a hard copy of the driver manual.

Don't Forget an Online Practice Test!

An ideal complement to studying the NC DMV handbook is preparing for the written test with the help of a comprehensive online practice test. These study guides have been created to help you pass the test on your first attempt. Our certified partner offers multiple practice tests based on the various driving manuals for most types of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles.

NC Motorcycle Manual

If you're applying for a NC motorcycle license, read through the Motorcyclist's Handbook (REV 2007) for all the information you need to pass the written exam and operate your motorcycle safely.

The driving manual also contains information about the following topics:

  • How to safely carry passengers and/or cargo.
  • How to avoid crashes.
  • Penalties for riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The Motorcyclist's DMV manual also includes some sample questions to help you pass the written exam.

Besides studying the motorcycle drivers handbook, you can also visit our Motorcycle License page for important information about getting your license.

Commercial Driver License Manual

When you apply for a commercial driver's license (CDL) in North Carolina, you'll need to get familiar with the NC Commercial Driver License Manual (REV 2017). You'll learn about the following topics and more in The CDL DMV handbook:

If you're going to operate a school bus, you can download the Handbook for School Bus Drivers (SBTS-341) from the NC DMV website.

North Carolina Vehicle Code

The North Carolina driver handbook is a great resource for drivers. However, there are other helpful resources available besides the drivers manuals.

Browse through the North Carolina Vehicle Code for detailed information on topics such as NC traffic laws, driver's licensing, and vehicle titling and registration.

If you've received a traffic citation, our Traffic Tickets page will give you instructions on how to respond. If you want to contest the charge, you may consider hiring a traffic ticket attorney to represent you in court.

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