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The basics: How to get a driver license in Raleigh, NC

Would you like to know how to get a driver license in Raleigh NC? Read on to learn what you need to know on the subject.

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How to get a driver license in Raleigh, NC

As of mid-2021, North Carolina boasted an estimated population of 10.7 million. Of that number, around 7.6 million have their driver's license.

With the summer months fast approaching, there are many different things to do in the beautiful state of North Carolina. From the Great Smoky Mountains in the west of the state to the Atlantic Ocean in the east, and everything in between, there is no shortage of adventure out there waiting for you. But, without your driver's license, getting to these places might be difficult.

If you're wondering how to get a driver's license in Raleigh, NC, you're in the right spot. Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of getting your driver's license in Raleigh, NC, and what you should be expecting when you head to the DMV.

What are some perks of having your license?

There are many reasons why you should consider getting your driver's license. Even if you don't own a car and live in an area with a strong public transportation system, you might still want to rent a car one day to take a vacation or visit someone in another area.

Perhaps you're in college and don't see the need for your license right now because everything you need is located on campus or close to campus. That might be the case, but having your license gives you the freedom to leave in case you need to. If there's an emergency of some kind with friends or family, being able to get there quickly is important.

If you've been putting off your license because you're worried about rising gas prices and affordability, using our Fuel Tracker can help you find the cheapest gas in the area to help you save money at the pump.

Steps for teen drivers

Getting your driver's license can be stressful, and there are a number of steps to getting one. For teenagers, getting your license comes with a few extra steps.

If you are between the ages of 15 and 18, you will need to start with a limited learner's permit. In order to receive this, you must pass both a course as well as a written test given out by the DMV. Once you do this, you are able to drive with adult supervision between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. for the first six months. After six months you are able to drive at any time.

Once you are at least 16, but under 18, and have held the limited permit for 12 months, you are able to get your limited provisional license with a road test from the DMV. This allows you more freedom, only requiring supervision outside of 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., unless you meet certain guidelines.

After you have held the limited provisional license for at least six months, haven't had a vehicle violation, and are under 18, you can receive your full provisional license, which gives you full driving ability.

The first steps on how to get a driver’s license in Raleigh, NC

If you do not fit under the category of a teenager, getting your driver's license can actually be easier to do. Only those between the ages of 15 and 17 are required to receive a learner's permit first. For any adult, age 18 or older, this is not a required step.

To start the process, go to your local DMV office. If you don't want to stand in line, you can also schedule an appointment through their website. Most offices are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and some are even open in the mornings on Saturday.

At the appointment, there will be a test on a number of items.

First, your vision will be tested. If you wear corrective lenses, make sure to bring them to your appointment. If you are unable to meet the vision standards set by the DMV without the help of the corrective lenses, you will be required to wear them when you drive, and your license will reflect that. If you are found driving without the lenses, you could face serious penalties.

Next, there will be a test on your knowledge of road safety and traffic signs. You will be required to identify different signs by their shape and color and express what they mean. The knowledge test will go over traffic laws and how to practice safe driving.

The driving test

After you complete the vision and written tests, you will begin the driving test. There are a number of items that the tester will grade you on, including:

  • Use of turn signals
  • Backing up
  • Yielding to the right of way
  • Parking
  • Approaching intersections

There are more items that will be taken into account with the driving test which can be found in the driver handbook provided by the NC DMV. The point of the driving test is to make sure you know what you're doing, follow traffic laws, and won't cause a safety hazard once you are on the road.

What to know after the tests

After you complete all of the tests you will be asked to provide a number of documents:

  • An item that will prove your identity as well as your birthdate
  • A document verifying your residency in NC
  • A Social Security card
  • A document that shows insurance coverage

For those who were born outside of the United States, you will also need to provide documentation that shows you are lawfully residing in the country.

Once you receive your license, it will be good for eight years, as long as you are under the age of 65. Afterward, your license will need to be renewed every five years.

A great idea to consider

Getting your driver's license is exciting. There is a world of possibilities out there that can open up for you with your license. In North Carolina alone, where tourism is picking back up to its pre-pandemic levels, there are so many different places for you to explore this summer as well as all year long.

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