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North Carolina full practice questions

North Carolina full practice questions

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Question 1 of 120
  1. 1. During a long trip, you keep yawning and cannot recall the last few miles. What should you do?
  2. 2. You need to enter a complicated destination into your navigation system. What is the safest plan?
  3. 3. An over-the-counter medicine warns that it may cause drowsiness. What should guide your decision about driving?
  4. 4. After drinking alcohol, a driver says feeling more confident proves that driving ability has improved. Why is that reasoning unsafe?
  5. 5. A person has been drinking and proposes coffee and a cold shower before driving. What is wrong with this plan?
  6. 6. Where should the lap portion of a properly worn lap-and-shoulder belt rest?
  7. 7. Your car has front airbags. How does that affect the need to use its seat belts?
  8. 8. You are installing a child restraint that is suitable for the child's size. What should you use to check the installation?
  9. 9. You are choosing a place for a rear-facing infant restraint. Which proposed location is unsafe?
  10. 10. A passenger suggests leaving a child alone in a parked car because its windows will be cracked open. What is the safe response?
  11. 11. You are approaching children waiting near a school-bus stop, but no bus is visible yet. What should you anticipate?
  12. 12. A tractor driver ahead extends the left arm straight out. What should you consider before attempting to pass?
  13. 13. A farm machine ahead looks far away on an open road. Why should you assess the gap early?
  14. 14. If your reaction time stays the same but you drive faster, what happens before you even begin braking?
  15. 15. You can see a sharp curve ahead on an otherwise dry road. When should you make the main reduction to a safe speed?
  16. 16. In a car whose transmission allows a suitable lower gear for descents, when should you select that gear for a long, steep hill?
  17. 17. On a road with several lanes in your direction, your intended lane appears open. Why should you also check the lane beyond it?
  18. 18. Your mirrors show no vehicle beside you. What additional check is needed before a lane change?
  19. 19. You are considering a pass on a two-way road, but a hill hides part of the oncoming lane. What should you do?
  20. 20. You have nearly overtaken another car on a two-way road. What must your planned return gap allow?
  21. 21. Before getting into a car that you will back out of a driveway, what should you check?
  22. 22. A row of parked vans blocks your view of the sidewalk and several driveways. What should you expect?
  23. 23. An interstate entrance has an acceleration lane, with no stop signal and a safe gap available. How should you use that lane?
  24. 24. You are approaching your exit in free-flowing traffic and the exit has a separate deceleration lane. Where should you normally reduce to the ramp's safe speed?
  25. 25. You pass your intended interstate exit before you can safely leave. What should you do?
  26. 26. At a multilane roundabout, when should you choose the lane that the signs and markings indicate for your destination?
  27. 27. A large truck enters the roundabout ahead of you and needs more than one lane's width. How should you respond?
  28. 28. You are already inside a roundabout when an emergency vehicle approaches using lights and siren. What does NCDOT advise?
  29. 29. Traffic beyond a railroad crossing has backed up, although the gates are raised. When should you enter?
  30. 30. The last car of a train has just cleared one track at a crossing with several tracks. What danger remains?
  31. 31. Your car stalls on railroad tracks and will not move. What is the immediate priority?
  32. 32. You are preparing to turn right across a bicycle lane. Which conflict must you check for?
  33. 33. You leave a broad highway for a paved secondary road. Why might the same speed be unsuitable?
  34. 34. After heavy luggage is placed at the rear of a car, the front sits noticeably higher. What additional hazard can this create?
  35. 35. While the car is stationary, its brake pedal gradually sinks under steady foot pressure. How should you treat that finding?
  36. 36. Your car has functioning four-wheel ABS and you must make an emergency stop. How should you apply the brake pedal?
  37. 37. Which approach gives the proper target for a routine tire-pressure check?
  38. 38. Why does an exhaust-system leak need attention even if the car still runs normally?
  39. 39. Your car continues bouncing after ordinary bumps and leans unusually far in turns. What should you do?
  40. 40. In busy traffic, you realize you have been watching only the bumper directly ahead. What should change?
  41. 41. Another car follows very closely, and a lane change would safely let it pass. What is the best response?
  42. 42. Parked vehicles narrow your side of the road, and an oncoming car leaves too little room to pass them safely at the same time. What should you do?
  43. 43. A work zone appears to leave all travel lanes open. Why should you still be especially alert?
  44. 44. On a dark road, what should limit your speed even when no other traffic is visible?
  45. 45. An approaching driver keeps bright headlights on. How should you protect your view?
  46. 46. Rain starts after a long dry spell. Why should you be cautious before deep puddles have even formed?
  47. 47. What is happening when a car hydroplanes?
  48. 48. Rain has ended, but your route still has wet pavement and puddles. What is the prudent choice about cruise control?
  49. 49. Floodwater covers the road ahead, and you cannot see its surface. What is the safest choice?
  50. 50. If fog is light enough to continue driving safely at a reduced speed, which lights should you use?
  51. 51. On a cold evening, most pavement still looks clear. Which areas deserve special attention for early ice?
  52. 52. A car is equipped with suitable snow tires. What should the driver remember on ice or packed snow?
  53. 53. A deer crosses ahead and disappears into the trees. Why should you remain alert and avoid immediately accelerating?
  54. 54. After safely stopping off the road, you see an injured wild animal nearby. What should you do?
  55. 55. Your disabled car is stopped where passing traffic leaves no safe working space. What should you do about repairs?
  56. 56. While following a tractor-trailer, you cannot see the driver in its side mirror. What should you assume?
  57. 57. Why does a long truck need more room than a car to turn a corner?
  58. 58. A large motor home ahead blocks your view of the road. Why is following more closely a poor response?
  59. 59. A motorcycle ahead approaches loose gravel and wet leaves. How should you adapt?
  60. 60. You are judging a gap before crossing the path of an approaching tractor-trailer. What visual trap should you avoid?
  61. 61. Your circular signal turns green, but a pedestrian is still lawfully crossing your path. What does the green permit you to do?
  62. 62. A circular green changes to yellow while you are still far enough from the intersection to stop safely. What should you do?
  63. 63. You are waiting to turn left, and the signal controlling that turn remains a steady red arrow. An oncoming-traffic gap appears. What should you do?
  64. 64. A signal shows a green left arrow beside a red circular light. You are in the lane for that left turn, and the path is clear. Which movement does that display permit?
  65. 65. A flashing red light faces your car at an intersection. Traffic is light. What is required before you enter?
  66. 66. An operating circular signal at an intersection is flashing yellow toward you. What does that displayed indication mean?
  67. 67. A flashing yellow left arrow is displayed while oncoming vehicles continue through the intersection. How should you decide when to turn?
  68. 68. All signal heads at an intersection are dark after a power failure. No officer, authorized person or other traffic-control device is directing traffic. How should you treat it?
  69. 69. At a freeway entrance ramp, the ramp-meter signal is dark rather than red or green. There is no other control requiring a stop. What does the dark meter allow?
  70. 70. You have stopped at a pedestrian hybrid beacon. Its red lights begin alternating flashes, but a pedestrian is still crossing directly in your path. What should you do?
  71. 71. A stop sign requires you to stop at an intersection with a clearly marked stop line before the crosswalk. Where should you make the required stop?
  72. 72. The road appears empty as you approach this sign. How does that affect its stop requirement?
    Red eight-sided sign with a white border and white lettering.
  73. 73. At the pictured sign, entering now would force traffic on the intersecting street to brake. What should you do?
    Downward-pointing triangle with red and white areas.
  74. 74. A destination is just beyond an opening, but this sign faces you at that opening. Which choice respects its meaning?
    Red circular field containing a horizontal white bar and white lettering.
  75. 75. You want to return along the road you just traveled. This sign is posted at the intersection. Which plan does it rule out?
    White square with a curved black arrow beneath a red circle and diagonal slash.
  76. 76. The pictured sign stands at a traffic island. Where does it direct you to pass the island?
    White upright rectangle with a black arrow bending around a black shape.
  77. 77. This sign controls the lane you are in. What movement should you plan to make from that lane at the intersection?
    White upright rectangle with a black arrow curving left above the word ONLY.
  78. 78. You see this yellow sign before a bend that hides the next intersection. What should you prepare for?
    Yellow diamond with a black upward arrow above a small red eight-sided shape.
  79. 79. What should you expect beyond this yellow warning sign as you approach the next junction?
    Yellow diamond containing a vertical black housing with red, yellow, and green circles.
  80. 80. You are following the main roadway when this sign appears. Which change ahead is it warning you to anticipate?
    Yellow diamond with an upright black arrow and a diagonal black branch joining it.
  81. 81. You are in the right lane when this warning appears. What does the diagram tell you about the roadway ahead?
    Yellow diamond with a straight black line on the left and another line bending inward from the right.
  82. 82. This sign appears near the end of a divided road. What change does it warn about?
    Yellow diamond showing opposite black arrows with a black shape between them near the bottom.
  83. 83. Seeing this five-sided sign, which nearby road users should you be especially prepared to notice?
    Fluorescent yellow-green five-sided sign showing two black human figures.
  84. 84. This circular yellow sign appears before you reach any tracks. What is it telling you?
    Round yellow sign with a black diagonal cross and a black letter on each side.
  85. 85. While looking for medical assistance, you see this blue service sign. Which facility does it identify?
    Blue square with a white border and a large white letter H.
  86. 86. An orange diamond-shaped sign warns of road work ahead. What type of condition should you associate with its color and shape?
  87. 87. Two adjacent travel lanes are separated by a yellow center line rather than a white lane line. What does that color difference tell you?
  88. 88. A broken yellow line is on your side of the center line. Which conclusion can you safely draw from the marking alone?
  89. 89. A center lane is marked for left turns from both directions, with opposing curved arrows. What is that lane intended for?
  90. 90. At night, the pavement markers facing your car appear red. What warning should that color give you?
  91. 91. On an ordinary North Carolina street inside municipal limits, no different speed limit has been set or posted. What is the default maximum?
  92. 92. You are driving a passenger car outside North Carolina municipal limits where no different speed limit has been established. What is the default maximum?
  93. 93. A same-direction bicyclist is neither turning nor signaling left, and all other passing requirements are satisfied. Under North Carolina's exception to a marked no-passing restriction, what minimum gap is required if your car does not completely enter the left lane?
  94. 94. No signs or markings prescribe a different turn path. Under North Carolina's general rule, how should you approach and make an ordinary right turn?
  95. 95. For a left turn at an intersection with no special directions modifying the turn, which approach lane does North Carolina's general rule require?
  96. 96. A hazard makes driving below a posted minimum speed necessary for safe operation. Does North Carolina's minimum-speed rule require you to maintain that minimum anyway?
  97. 97. On a street with a 35 mph speed limit, your planned turn may affect another vehicle. For at least how much of the approach must you signal continuously?
  98. 98. You are traveling at 30 mph on a road whose speed limit is 45 mph. Another vehicle may be affected by your turn. How far before turning must your continuous turn signal begin?
  99. 99. Two cars going straight reach an uncontrolled intersection from different roads at about the same time. You are the driver on the left. What must you do?
  100. 100. You plan to turn left into a driveway. An oncoming car is close enough to be an immediate hazard, and no traffic control gives you priority. What is required?
  101. 101. You are about to enter a highway from a private driveway. Who has the right-of-way under North Carolina's entry rule?
  102. 102. At the end of a block in a residential district, a pedestrian is using the regular crossing formed by the sidewalk boundaries. There are no painted crosswalk lines, officers or traffic controls. What must a driver do?
  103. 103. A properly marked school bus is stopped to load passengers on an undivided two-lane road. Its red lights are flashing, but its stop arm has not extended. What must an approaching driver do?
  104. 104. You stopped behind a properly marked school bus loading children. Its stop arm is now withdrawn and its red stoplights are off, but the bus has not started moving. May you pass under the school-bus rule?
  105. 105. A properly marked school bus is stopped for passengers with red lights flashing on the opposite roadway of a highway separated by a physical barrier. What does North Carolina's school-bus law require of you?
  106. 106. A road has one through lane in each direction plus a shared center left-turn lane. A properly marked school bus opposite you is stopped for passengers with red lights flashing. Must you stop?
  107. 107. A road has two through lanes in each direction plus a center left-turn lane. A properly marked school bus on the opposite side stops for passengers with red lights flashing. Which statement is correct?
  108. 108. A 17-year-old driver is moving on a public road and wants to make a hands-free call to a friend about a movie. Is hands-free use an exception to North Carolina's under-18 phone ban?
  109. 109. Which voice call is expressly excepted from North Carolina's age-specific moving-vehicle phone ban for a driver under 18?
  110. 110. An adult is driving a moving passenger car on a public road. Does North Carolina's text-and-email rule permit reading a normal text message just because it was saved on the phone before the trip?
  111. 111. An adult rides in the rear seat of a passenger car manufactured with seat belts. The car is moving forward on a public street, and no statutory exception applies. Must the adult wear the belt?
  112. 112. A 7-year-old child weighing 60 pounds rides in an ordinary car with an available lap-and-shoulder-belt seating position. No statutory exception applies. What does North Carolina require?
  113. 113. A driver transports a 14-year-old in an ordinary seat-belt-equipped car, with no exception applying. Whose duty under North Carolina's child-restraint statute is it to ensure that the passenger is properly secured?
  114. 114. When North Carolina law requires you to stop at a railroad grade crossing, how far from the nearest rail must the stop be?
  115. 115. Rail maintenance equipment is plainly approaching a crossing close enough to be a hazard. Does North Carolina's railroad-stop statute apply even though no conventional train is present?
  116. 116. During daytime rain, your windshield wipers are running continuously as you drive on a highway. What lighting does North Carolina require?
  117. 117. Separate from the weather-and-wiper provision, North Carolina requires lights when insufficient light prevents clearly seeing a person on the highway at what distance ahead?
  118. 118. An ambulance approaches with lights and siren on a two-way undivided street. No officer directs you otherwise. What must you do?
  119. 119. A police vehicle is stopped within 12 feet of the roadway with warning lights on. You are in the nearer of two lanes in your direction and can change lanes safely without interfering with traffic. No official directs otherwise. What is required?
  120. 120. You approach a stopped ambulance within 12 feet of the road with warning lights on. Traffic prevents a safe move to the farther lane, and no official directs otherwise. What must you do?
Review all 120 questions with answers

  1. During a long trip, you keep yawning and cannot recall the last few miles. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Leave traffic at a safe stopping place and rest.

    These are warning signs of drowsiness. Stop in a safe place and rest instead of trying to force yourself to continue driving.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 40: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Driver Safety - Drowsy Driving ↗

  2. You need to enter a complicated destination into your navigation system. What is the safest plan?

    Correct answer: Enter it while safely parked before driving.

    Programming or reading navigation can take attention away from traffic. Finish the task while safely parked, rather than combining it with driving.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 41: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Distracted Driving - Distractions ↗

  3. An over-the-counter medicine warns that it may cause drowsiness. What should guide your decision about driving?

    Correct answer: Check and follow its driving warnings before taking the wheel.

    Prescription and over-the-counter medicines can affect driving. Read and follow the warnings before driving; a short test drive is not a safe way to find out whether you are impaired.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 42: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Medications; corroborated by NHTSA Drug-Impaired Driving - Many Substances Can Impair Driving ↗

  4. After drinking alcohol, a driver says feeling more confident proves that driving ability has improved. Why is that reasoning unsafe?

    Correct answer: Alcohol can increase confidence while weakening judgment and reactions.

    Alcohol can create a misleading sense of confidence while impairing judgment, attention and reactions. Feeling confident is not evidence that a person can drive safely.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 42: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Alcohol ↗

  5. A person has been drinking and proposes coffee and a cold shower before driving. What is wrong with this plan?

    Correct answer: Neither method removes alcohol from the body faster.

    Coffee, food and cold showers do not speed the body's removal of alcohol. Use a sober driver or another safe way home; this is not a formula for deciding when someone is fit to drive.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 42: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Alcohol ↗

  6. Where should the lap portion of a properly worn lap-and-shoulder belt rest?

    Correct answer: Low and snug across the hips.

    The lap portion belongs low across the hips, not over the abdomen. Wear the shoulder portion correctly as well; hiding it behind the back defeats part of the restraint.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 45: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Adult Safety Points ↗

  7. Your car has front airbags. How does that affect the need to use its seat belts?

    Correct answer: The airbags supplement properly worn seat belts.

    Airbags are supplemental protection, not substitutes for seat belts. Use the belt correctly even when the airbag system is working.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 43: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Protecting Yourself and Your Passengers - Seat Belts ↗

  8. You are installing a child restraint that is suitable for the child's size. What should you use to check the installation?

    Correct answer: The restraint instructions and the vehicle owner's manual.

    A suitable child restraint must also be installed correctly. Follow both the restraint manufacturer's instructions and the vehicle owner's manual, rather than assuming one installation method fits every vehicle.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 44: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Child Safety (continued); NHTSA Car Seats and Booster Seats - Car Seat Overview ↗

  9. You are choosing a place for a rear-facing infant restraint. Which proposed location is unsafe?

    Correct answer: A front passenger seat with an active frontal airbag.

    Do not put a rear-facing infant restraint in front of an active frontal airbag. Use an appropriate rear location and follow the vehicle and restraint instructions.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 45: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Child Safety Points ↗

  10. A passenger suggests leaving a child alone in a parked car because its windows will be cracked open. What is the safe response?

    Correct answer: Take the child with you; cracked windows do not prevent dangerous heating.

    A parked vehicle can become dangerously hot even with windows slightly open. Do not leave a child unattended in the vehicle.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 46: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Weather Risk ↗

  11. You are approaching children waiting near a school-bus stop, but no bus is visible yet. What should you anticipate?

    Correct answer: A child may move unexpectedly into the roadway.

    Children waiting for a school bus may run or dart into the street. Stay alert and be ready to avoid a collision even before the bus arrives; this question does not state the separate school-bus stopping law.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 47: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, School Buses ↗

  12. A tractor driver ahead extends the left arm straight out. What should you consider before attempting to pass?

    Correct answer: The driver may be signaling a left turn.

    A tractor driver's left-turn signal can be mistaken for an invitation to pass. Do not make that assumption; anticipate the tractor's intended turn and wait until passing can be done safely.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 51: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Safe Driving Around Farm Equipment ↗

  13. A farm machine ahead looks far away on an open road. Why should you assess the gap early?

    Correct answer: You may close the distance quickly because it is moving much more slowly.

    The difference between road speed and slow farm-equipment speed can make the gap disappear quickly. Notice the situation early and adjust before you reach the machine.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 52: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Safe Driving Around Farm Equipment (continued) ↗

  14. If your reaction time stays the same but you drive faster, what happens before you even begin braking?

    Correct answer: The car travels farther during that reaction time.

    At a higher speed, the car covers more road during the same time spent recognizing and responding to a hazard. Braking distance also matters, but it does not replace reaction distance.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 52: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Basic Driving Skills and Rules - Adjusting Your Speed to Driving Conditions ↗

  15. You can see a sharp curve ahead on an otherwise dry road. When should you make the main reduction to a safe speed?

    Correct answer: Before entering the curve.

    Reduce speed before entering a curve so you are not relying on a sudden correction while turning. The safe entry speed depends on the road and conditions.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 53: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Rounding a Curve ↗

  16. In a car whose transmission allows a suitable lower gear for descents, when should you select that gear for a long, steep hill?

    Correct answer: Before beginning the descent, following the vehicle's instructions.

    Plan the descent before starting down. Using an appropriate lower gear as instructed for the vehicle helps control speed and reduces reliance on the brakes; this is not a universal shift procedure for every car.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 75: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Emergencies - Wet Brakes (long grades paragraph) ↗

  17. On a road with several lanes in your direction, your intended lane appears open. Why should you also check the lane beyond it?

    Correct answer: Another driver may be moving into the same gap.

    A vehicle beyond the intended lane may be changing into the same space. Check the whole situation, including mirrors and blind spots, before moving.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 54: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Changing Lanes ↗

  18. Your mirrors show no vehicle beside you. What additional check is needed before a lane change?

    Correct answer: A brief shoulder check of the area the mirrors do not show.

    Mirrors do not reveal every area near the rear corners of the car. Briefly check the blind spot before changing lanes while continuing to monitor the roadway ahead.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 68: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Defensive Driving - Scanning ↗

  19. You are considering a pass on a two-way road, but a hill hides part of the oncoming lane. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Wait until you can confirm enough clear road for the complete pass.

    Do not start a pass unless you can see enough clear roadway to complete it and return safely. Hidden oncoming traffic cannot be ruled out just because you cannot see it.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 55: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Passing ↗

  20. You have nearly overtaken another car on a two-way road. What must your planned return gap allow?

    Correct answer: A return without forcing the passed driver to brake to avoid you.

    Plan the whole pass, including a safe return to your lane. Do not cut in so closely that the vehicle you passed must brake to avoid a collision.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 55: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Passing ↗

  21. Before getting into a car that you will back out of a driveway, what should you check?

    Correct answer: The area behind it for children and small obstacles.

    Check behind the car before entering. Small children and low objects can be difficult to see from the driver's seat, so mirrors alone are not enough.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 56: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Backing ↗

  22. A row of parked vans blocks your view of the sidewalk and several driveways. What should you expect?

    Correct answer: People or vehicles may emerge from places you cannot see.

    Parked vehicles can hide pedestrians, driveways and crossing traffic. Scan for developing hazards and leave enough time and space to respond to something emerging from behind them.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 63: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, City Driving ↗

  23. An interstate entrance has an acceleration lane, with no stop signal and a safe gap available. How should you use that lane?

    Correct answer: Build to a suitable traffic speed, then merge into the safe gap.

    Use the acceleration lane to approach the traffic speed as conditions and the speed limit permit. Check the gap and merge safely instead of creating an unnecessary large speed difference.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 64: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Interstate Highways ↗

  24. You are approaching your exit in free-flowing traffic and the exit has a separate deceleration lane. Where should you normally reduce to the ramp's safe speed?

    Correct answer: In the deceleration lane after leaving the through lane.

    Signal in advance and move into the exit lane safely, then slow for the ramp. Under the stated free-flowing conditions, avoid an unnecessary slowdown in the through lane; congestion or other hazards may require earlier slowing.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 64: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Interstate Highways ↗

  25. You pass your intended interstate exit before you can safely leave. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Continue to the next exit and reroute.

    Continue to the next exit. A missed turn is not a reason to back up, cross the separation area or turn around on the interstate.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 65: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Entering and Exiting the Interstate ↗

  26. At a multilane roundabout, when should you choose the lane that the signs and markings indicate for your destination?

    Correct answer: Before entering, then follow that lane through the roundabout.

    Choose the appropriate lane before entering and follow the signs and markings. Current NCDOT guidance says not to change lanes within the roundabout; a generic outside-lane rule does not replace the actual lane layout.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 59: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Roundabouts - Multi-Lane Roundabout; current NCDOT Roundabouts - Multilane Roundabout ↗

  27. A large truck enters the roundabout ahead of you and needs more than one lane's width. How should you respond?

    Correct answer: Give it extra room rather than trying to squeeze alongside.

    Large trucks and buses may need to straddle a lane while negotiating a roundabout. Leave room for that movement; do not squeeze into the truck's turning space.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 59: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Roundabouts - Tips & Reminders; current NCDOT Roundabouts - Roundabout Tips & Reminders ↗

  28. You are already inside a roundabout when an emergency vehicle approaches using lights and siren. What does NCDOT advise?

    Correct answer: Exit the roundabout, then pull over safely to let it pass.

    When already in the roundabout, exit first and then pull over safely. Do not obstruct the circulating roadway by stopping in it or improvising a route onto the island.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 59: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Roundabouts - Tips & Reminders; current NCDOT Roundabouts - Roundabout Tips & Reminders ↗

  29. Traffic beyond a railroad crossing has backed up, although the gates are raised. When should you enter?

    Correct answer: Only when there is enough room beyond the tracks for your entire car.

    Raised gates do not guarantee space beyond the crossing. Keep the whole car clear of the tracks by waiting until the exit space is available.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 62: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Railroad Crossing Safety - traffic ahead of the tracks ↗

  30. The last car of a train has just cleared one track at a crossing with several tracks. What danger remains?

    Correct answer: Another train may approach on a different track or follow the first.

    Do not assume the crossing is clear as soon as one train passes. Another train may be approaching; continue to obey the warning devices and check that crossing is safe.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 61: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Railroad Crossing Safety - after a train passes ↗

  31. Your car stalls on railroad tracks and will not move. What is the immediate priority?

    Correct answer: Get everyone out and well away from the tracks, then report the emergency from safety.

    Evacuate immediately and move everyone away from the vehicle and tracks. From a safe location, report the emergency using the crossing's emergency contact information; do not assume a train can stop for you.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 62: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Railroad Crossing Safety - Railroad related emergencies ↗

  32. You are preparing to turn right across a bicycle lane. Which conflict must you check for?

    Correct answer: A bicyclist continuing straight beside you.

    A bicyclist may be continuing straight on your right as you turn across that path. Check carefully and do not cut across the rider's movement.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 63: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Bicycle Lanes (continued); printed p.90 collision diagrams ↗

  33. You leave a broad highway for a paved secondary road. Why might the same speed be unsuitable?

    Correct answer: The secondary road may have sharper curves, steeper hills and shorter sight distances.

    Paving does not make every road suitable for main-highway speeds. Secondary roads may have limited sight distance and more demanding hills or curves, so choose speed for the actual conditions.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 63: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Open Roads - Secondary Roads ↗

  34. After heavy luggage is placed at the rear of a car, the front sits noticeably higher. What additional hazard can this create?

    Correct answer: The headlights may aim higher and glare into other road users' eyes.

    A heavy rear load can tilt the front upward and change the headlight aim. Correct the loading and follow the vehicle's loading guidance rather than ignoring glare and control concerns.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 65: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Vehicle Equipment - Lights ↗

  35. While the car is stationary, its brake pedal gradually sinks under steady foot pressure. How should you treat that finding?

    Correct answer: As a possible hydraulic problem requiring inspection before driving.

    A pedal that gradually lowers under steady pressure can indicate a hydraulic brake problem. Have it checked; do not use road driving as a test of a possible braking defect.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 66: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Vehicle Equipment - Brakes ↗

  36. Your car has functioning four-wheel ABS and you must make an emergency stop. How should you apply the brake pedal?

    Correct answer: Use firm, continuous pressure rather than pumping it.

    For a car with functioning four-wheel ABS, maintain firm, steady brake pressure. Pumping or repeatedly releasing the pedal interferes with the system; know the instructions for your particular vehicle.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 66: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Vehicle Equipment - Anti-lock Braking System; NHTSA Winter Weather Driving Tips - Safety Technologies ↗

  37. Which approach gives the proper target for a routine tire-pressure check?

    Correct answer: Use the vehicle manufacturer's recommended cold pressure when the tires are cool.

    Check cool tires against the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation, such as the vehicle label or owner's manual. A tire-sidewall maximum or another car's setting is not the recommended pressure for your car.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 67: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Vehicle Equipment - Tires; NHTSA Winter Weather Driving Tips - Tires ↗

  38. Why does an exhaust-system leak need attention even if the car still runs normally?

    Correct answer: It can allow poisonous exhaust gas into the passenger compartment.

    An exhaust leak can allow carbon monoxide into the vehicle. The car continuing to run, or occupants noticing no strong odor, does not prove that the passenger compartment is safe; have the fault corrected.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 67: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Vehicle Equipment - Muffler and Exhaust System ↗

  39. Your car continues bouncing after ordinary bumps and leans unusually far in turns. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Have the suspension inspected and any defects corrected.

    Continuous bouncing or excessive leaning can indicate a suspension problem that affects control. Have it inspected instead of trying to compensate with abrupt steering or delaying the check.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 67: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Vehicle Equipment - Suspension System ↗

  40. In busy traffic, you realize you have been watching only the bumper directly ahead. What should change?

    Correct answer: Scan farther ahead and around while making brief mirror checks.

    Look beyond the nearest vehicle so you can notice developing trouble early, and keep aware of surrounding traffic. Mirror checks should be brief so attention returns promptly to the road ahead.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 68: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Defensive Driving - Scanning ↗

  41. Another car follows very closely, and a lane change would safely let it pass. What is the best response?

    Correct answer: Keep control and signal a safe lane change to let it go ahead.

    Avoid a contest with the following driver. Maintain control and use a safe, signaled opportunity to let the vehicle pass; do not brake-check, race or change lanes without checking.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 69: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Keeping a Margin of Safety ↗

  42. Parked vehicles narrow your side of the road, and an oncoming car leaves too little room to pass them safely at the same time. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Wait in a safe position until the oncoming car has passed.

    When there is not enough room to negotiate both hazards safely, separate them in time. Wait safely for the oncoming vehicle, then proceed with adequate clearance.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 69: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Defensive Driving - Adjusting ↗

  43. A work zone appears to leave all travel lanes open. Why should you still be especially alert?

    Correct answer: Nearby work and unexpected activity can create hazards or distract drivers.

    A work zone can affect safety even without a closed lane. Watch traffic and the work area for unexpected movement while keeping your attention on driving, rather than watching the work as a spectator.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 70: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Hazardous Driving - Work Zones ↗

  44. On a dark road, what should limit your speed even when no other traffic is visible?

    Correct answer: The distance in which you can see and stop for a hazard.

    Choose a speed that lets you stop within the roadway you can actually see. Darkness can conceal wildlife, debris or stopped vehicles even on a familiar, apparently empty road.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 71: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Night Driving ↗

  45. An approaching driver keeps bright headlights on. How should you protect your view?

    Correct answer: Keep your own lights low and look slightly right toward the road edge.

    Do not stare into the glare or retaliate with high beams. Keep your own lights low, reduce speed as needed and use the right road edge as a guide while continuing to watch ahead.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 71: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Night Driving - Tips for nighttime driving ↗

  46. Rain starts after a long dry spell. Why should you be cautious before deep puddles have even formed?

    Correct answer: The first rain can mix with surface oil and dirt to make the road slick.

    Early rain can mix with accumulated oil, dirt and other material to create a slippery surface. Do not wait for deep water before adjusting your driving.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 72: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Rain ↗

  47. What is happening when a car hydroplanes?

    Correct answer: Water separates the tires from the road and reduces grip.

    Hydroplaning occurs when water comes between the tires and road surface. Reduced contact means reduced ability to steer, slow or stop; this is not the same mechanism as a brake-induced locked-wheel skid.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 72: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Hydroplaning ↗

  48. Rain has ended, but your route still has wet pavement and puddles. What is the prudent choice about cruise control?

    Correct answer: Leave it off while the wet-road conditions continue.

    The handbook advises against cruise control in rain or on the wet road afterward. Puddles and reduced traction can remain after the shower stops, so do not treat the end of rainfall as the end of the hazard.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 72: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Hydroplaning ↗

  49. Floodwater covers the road ahead, and you cannot see its surface. What is the safest choice?

    Correct answer: Do not enter; find a safe alternative route.

    Do not drive into a flooded road. Water depth and current can be misleading, and the road beneath may be washed away; familiarity or another vehicle's passage does not make it safe.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 73: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Driving in Flood Conditions ↗

  50. If fog is light enough to continue driving safely at a reduced speed, which lights should you use?

    Correct answer: Low-beam headlights.

    Use low-beam headlights in fog and reduce speed for the limited view. If you cannot see well enough to continue safely, stop at a safe location off the roadway rather than relying on a different lamp setting.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 73: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Fog ↗

  51. On a cold evening, most pavement still looks clear. Which areas deserve special attention for early ice?

    Correct answer: Bridges, overpasses and shaded stretches.

    Bridges, overpasses and shaded areas are often the first places to freeze. Do not assume that a clear-looking approach means the next surface has the same traction.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 73: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Snow and Ice ↗

  52. A car is equipped with suitable snow tires. What should the driver remember on ice or packed snow?

    Correct answer: The tires can still slide, so abrupt maneuvers remain dangerous.

    Snow tires and even chains cannot prevent every slide on ice or packed snow. Continue to use reduced speed, extra space and gentle control inputs.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 74: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Snow and Ice (continued) ↗

  53. A deer crosses ahead and disappears into the trees. Why should you remain alert and avoid immediately accelerating?

    Correct answer: Other animals may follow close behind.

    Deer and other wildlife may travel in groups. Continue scanning the road and its edges because another animal may follow the one you just saw.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 74: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Wildlife - Expect More Than One Animal ↗

  54. After safely stopping off the road, you see an injured wild animal nearby. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Keep your distance and report it rather than approaching.

    An injured wild animal may be dangerous. Remain safely away and report the situation to appropriate assistance; do not approach or attempt to handle it.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 75: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Wildlife - If you hit an animal or come across an injured one ↗

  55. Your disabled car is stopped where passing traffic leaves no safe working space. What should you do about repairs?

    Correct answer: Call for assistance instead of attempting repairs in the exposed area.

    Do not attempt vehicle repairs where you are exposed to passing traffic. Warning lights do not create protected working space; get appropriate roadside assistance.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 76: Chapter 4 - Your Driving, Emergencies - Breakdowns ↗

  56. While following a tractor-trailer, you cannot see the driver in its side mirror. What should you assume?

    Correct answer: You may be in an area the truck driver cannot see.

    A truck has substantial blind areas despite its driver's height. If you cannot see the driver in the side mirror, do not assume you have been seen; avoid lingering in that blind area.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 92: Chapter 6 - Sharing the Road, Trucks and Other Vehicles - No-Zones (continued) ↗

  57. Why does a long truck need more room than a car to turn a corner?

    Correct answer: Its rear wheels do not follow the same path as its front wheels.

    A truck's rear wheels follow a different path from its front wheels, so its turning space can be larger than it first appears. Watch its signals and leave room instead of entering that space.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 91: Chapter 6 - Sharing the Road, Trucks and Other Vehicles ↗

  58. A large motor home ahead blocks your view of the road. Why is following more closely a poor response?

    Correct answer: It blocks even more of your view and leaves less room to react.

    The closer you follow a large recreational vehicle, the more it obstructs your view. Keep enough space to observe developing conditions and respond without relying on the other driver to protect you.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 92: Chapter 6 - Sharing the Road, Recreational Vehicles and Trailers ↗

  59. A motorcycle ahead approaches loose gravel and wet leaves. How should you adapt?

    Correct answer: Leave extra room for the rider to slow down or adjust position.

    Loose or slippery material can make a motorcycle unstable. Give the rider room to slow, change position or recover; do not crowd the motorcycle.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 93: Chapter 6 - Sharing the Road, Motorcycles - Things to remember when you encounter a cyclist ↗

  60. You are judging a gap before crossing the path of an approaching tractor-trailer. What visual trap should you avoid?

    Correct answer: Its large size can make it appear slower than it is.

    A large truck can appear to be traveling more slowly than it actually is. Assess a genuinely safe gap instead of relying on that impression or expecting the truck to compensate for your move.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, Revised May 2025 (printing 09/25), printed p. 91: Chapter 6 - Sharing the Road, Trucks and Other Vehicles ↗

  61. Your circular signal turns green, but a pedestrian is still lawfully crossing your path. What does the green permit you to do?

    Correct answer: Proceed only after yielding to the pedestrian

    Green permits movement with due care; it does not cancel the rights of pedestrians or vehicles already entitled to proceed. Do not treat a green light as a guarantee that the path is clear.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 80 / physical PDF 82; Traffic Signals - circular green. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(b)(2a), green-light paragraph; full section and exceptions read. ↗

  62. A circular green changes to yellow while you are still far enough from the intersection to stop safely. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Stop safely rather than accelerate into the intersection

    The handbook directs a safe stop when possible. If too close to stop safely, proceed cautiously instead; never speed up to beat the red. The stated scenario supplies enough stopping room.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 80 / physical PDF 82; Traffic Signals - circular yellow. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(b)(2a): yellow warns of terminating green or immediately forthcoming red; handbook supplies safe-stop guidance. ↗

  63. You are waiting to turn left, and the signal controlling that turn remains a steady red arrow. An oncoming-traffic gap appears. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Remain stopped for the red arrow

    The North Carolina handbook's steady red arrow display means stop with no turn allowed. A traffic gap does not change the red arrow into a permissive indication. This concerns the controlled left turn, not a circular-red right-turn rule.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 81 / physical PDF 83; Flashing Yellow Arrow Traffic Signal Heads - Solid Red Arrow. ↗

  64. A signal shows a green left arrow beside a red circular light. You are in the lane for that left turn, and the path is clear. Which movement does that display permit?

    Correct answer: A cautious left turn in the arrow's direction

    The arrow controls the indicated turning movement while the circular light controls through movement. A green arrow permits the indicated turn with caution; it does not make the red circular signal green.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 81 / physical PDF 83; Combination signal displays - green left arrow with red circular signal. ↗

  65. A flashing red light faces your car at an intersection. Traffic is light. What is required before you enter?

    Correct answer: A full stop, then yielding before proceeding safely

    Flashing red is treated as a stop sign: stop fully and yield to traffic in or approaching the intersection. A light traffic volume does not remove the stop.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 81 / physical PDF 83; Flashing Signals - red. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(b)(3), with complete section read. ↗

  66. An operating circular signal at an intersection is flashing yellow toward you. What does that displayed indication mean?

    Correct answer: Proceed cautiously and yield to conflicting traffic

    Flashing yellow permits cautious movement while yielding as required. This question concerns an actual flashing-yellow display, not a dark malfunctioning signal or a flashing-red display.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 81 / physical PDF 83; Flashing Signals - yellow. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(b)(4); NCDOT May 10, 2024 malfunction-flash program read for context, not used to erase the actual statutory yellow meaning. ↗

  67. A flashing yellow left arrow is displayed while oncoming vehicles continue through the intersection. How should you decide when to turn?

    Correct answer: Yield and turn only when the conflicting path is clear

    The flashing yellow arrow permits the indicated turn, but it is not protected from oncoming traffic. Yield to conflicting vehicles and pedestrians before turning.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 81 / physical PDF 83; Flashing Yellow Arrow Traffic Signal Heads. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: NCDOT Signal Design FAQ physical2, FYA answer; NCDOT November25,2024 Wilson signal release, safe-gap paragraph. Neither is a new legal timing rule. ↗

  68. All signal heads at an intersection are dark after a power failure. No officer, authorized person or other traffic-control device is directing traffic. How should you treat it?

    Correct answer: As an intersection controlled by stop signs on every approach

    North Carolina requires the all-approach stop-sign treatment for an unilluminated malfunctioning intersection signal unless an authorized person or other device controls traffic. Those exceptions are expressly absent here.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 81 / physical PDF 83; Malfunctioned traffic signal. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(b)(6), full exception sentence read. ↗

  69. At a freeway entrance ramp, the ramp-meter signal is dark rather than red or green. There is no other control requiring a stop. What does the dark meter allow?

    Correct answer: Proceed past the meter and merge as normal conditions allow

    A dark ramp meter allows passage without a meter-required stop. This differs from a failed intersection signal and does not remove ordinary merging or yielding duties.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 82 / physical PDF 84; Ramp Meter Traffic Signals. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(c)(6), with adjoining nonintersection-control context read. ↗

  70. You have stopped at a pedestrian hybrid beacon. Its red lights begin alternating flashes, but a pedestrian is still crossing directly in your path. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Remain stopped until the pedestrian has cleared your path

    The flashing-red phase does not authorize driving through a pedestrian. After a complete stop, movement can resume only when the crossing is clear and it is safe. No fixed waiting time is substituted for checking.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 82 / physical PDF 84; Hybrid Beacons - alternating flashing red sequence. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(c)(3); NCDOT Signal Design FAQ physical2 hybrid-beacon answer, full paragraph; handbook full sequence visually inspected. ↗

  71. A stop sign requires you to stop at an intersection with a clearly marked stop line before the crosswalk. Where should you make the required stop?

    Correct answer: At the marked stop line

    The marked stop line controls the stopping location. Without one, the statutory hierarchy is before the marked crosswalk, then the nearest view point before entering the intersection; the prompt already supplies a line.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 83 / physical PDF 85; Regulatory Signs - stop-location paragraph. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(b)(5), all three location alternatives read. ↗

  72. The road appears empty as you approach this sign. How does that affect its stop requirement?

    Correct answer: It still requires a complete stop

    A STOP sign requires a full stop even on an apparently empty road. Check and yield as required before continuing; no arbitrary minimum waiting time is added.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 83 / physical PDF 85; Regulatory Signs - STOP. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-158(b)(1). ↗

  73. At the pictured sign, entering now would force traffic on the intersecting street to brake. What should you do?

    Correct answer: Stop and wait rather than interfere with that traffic

    Yield requires slowing and giving way. When entry would interfere with traffic having the right-of-way, stop and wait; a horn is not the trigger.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 83 / physical PDF 85; Regulatory Signs - YIELD. ↗

  74. A destination is just beyond an opening, but this sign faces you at that opening. Which choice respects its meaning?

    Correct answer: Find another lawful approach instead of entering there

    The sign prohibits entry from the direction facing it. Distance to a destination, a gap or low speed does not remove that restriction.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 86 / physical PDF 88; Regulatory Signs panel - DO NOT ENTER. ↗

  75. You want to return along the road you just traveled. This sign is posted at the intersection. Which plan does it rule out?

    Correct answer: Making a U-turn at that intersection

    The red slash over the U-shaped arrow prohibits a U-turn there. It does not by itself prohibit continuing ahead or using another lawful route.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 86 / physical PDF 88; Regulatory Signs panel - No U Turns. ↗

  76. The pictured sign stands at a traffic island. Where does it direct you to pass the island?

    Correct answer: On its right-hand side

    The curved arrow directs traffic to the right of the obstruction. It is not a stop sign or permission to choose either side.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 86 / physical PDF 88; Regulatory Signs panel - Keep Right. ↗

  77. This sign controls the lane you are in. What movement should you plan to make from that lane at the intersection?

    Correct answer: A left turn

    The curved left arrow with ONLY assigns the lane to left turns. If that is not your intended route, plan a lawful lane choice early rather than continue straight from this lane.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 86 / physical PDF 88; Regulatory Signs panel - Left Turn Only. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-146(d)(3), obedience to official designated-lane directions. ↗

  78. You see this yellow sign before a bend that hides the next intersection. What should you prepare for?

    Correct answer: A stop sign ahead that will require a stop

    This is an advance warning of a stop sign. It lets you prepare before the actual control becomes visible; it is not the stop line or a road-closure instruction.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 84 / physical PDF 86; Warning Signs - STOP AHEAD. ↗

  79. What should you expect beyond this yellow warning sign as you approach the next junction?

    Correct answer: A traffic signal whose actual indication you must check

    The symbol warns that a traffic signal is ahead. The colored circles on a printed sign do not tell you the signal's present display.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 87 / physical PDF 89; Warning Signs panel - Signal Ahead. ↗

  80. You are following the main roadway when this sign appears. Which change ahead is it warning you to anticipate?

    Correct answer: Traffic joining the roadway from the side

    The joining branch warns of merging traffic. It does not grant an entering driver automatic priority or require main-road traffic to turn.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 87 / physical PDF 89; Warning Signs panel - Merging Traffic. ↗

  81. You are in the right lane when this warning appears. What does the diagram tell you about the roadway ahead?

    Correct answer: The right lane narrows into the lane beside it

    The tapering line shows the right lane ending. Recognize the change early and plan a safe merge; the sign does not authorize an abrupt lane change.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 87 / physical PDF 89; Warning Signs panel - Lane Drop. ↗

  82. This sign appears near the end of a divided road. What change does it warn about?

    Correct answer: The physical separation between opposing traffic is ending

    The divider symbol is at the bottom of the sign: the divided highway ends ahead. Prepare for an undivided section, not a new median or a mandatory exit.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 87 / physical PDF 89; Warning Signs panel - Divided Highway Ends. ↗

  83. Seeing this five-sided sign, which nearby road users should you be especially prepared to notice?

    Correct answer: Children around a school area or crossing

    The pentagon with schoolchildren warns of a school area or school crossing. It is not itself a numerical speed-limit sign; obey any separately posted restriction and watch carefully for children.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 85 / physical PDF 87; School-zone or school-crossing pentagon. ↗

  84. This circular yellow sign appears before you reach any tracks. What is it telling you?

    Correct answer: A railroad crossing is ahead

    The round RR warning is placed in advance of a railroad crossing. It is different from the crossbuck at the crossing and does not by itself state that a train is present.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 84 / physical PDF 86; Warning Signs - round railroad advance warning. ↗

  85. While looking for medical assistance, you see this blue service sign. Which facility does it identify?

    Correct answer: A hospital

    The white H on a blue background identifies hospital service. It does not identify lodging or promise that every type of treatment is available at every facility.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 85 / physical PDF 87; Guide/Informational Signs - hospital. ↗

  86. An orange diamond-shaped sign warns of road work ahead. What type of condition should you associate with its color and shape?

    Correct answer: Construction or maintenance conditions

    Black-on-orange diamond warnings concern construction or maintenance areas. Read the specific message; the orange color does not establish a particular speed limit or say that every lane is closed.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 84 / physical PDF 86; Warning Signs - black-on-orange. ↗

  87. Two adjacent travel lanes are separated by a yellow center line rather than a white lane line. What does that color difference tell you?

    Correct answer: The adjacent lanes carry opposing directions of traffic

    Yellow separates opposing traffic; white separates lanes traveling in the same direction. Color alone does not establish permission or safe conditions for a pass.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 88 / physical PDF 90; Pavement Markings - lane-line colors. ↗

  88. A broken yellow line is on your side of the center line. Which conclusion can you safely draw from the marking alone?

    Correct answer: Passing may be permitted, but conditions and other rules still must allow it

    The broken line can permit passing with care, but it does not guarantee a safe gap, adequate sight distance or the absence of other restrictions. It is not an instruction to begin a pass.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 88 / physical PDF 90; Pavement Markings - broken yellow center line. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-150(a)–(f) read, including bicycle/moped exception; no numeric passing-clearance or blanket solid-line rule is tested. ↗

  89. A center lane is marked for left turns from both directions, with opposing curved arrows. What is that lane intended for?

    Correct answer: Left turns by traffic approaching from either direction

    This specially marked lane is for two-way left-turn movements, not through travel or passing. Do not confuse it with every possible three-lane road arrangement.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 88 / physical PDF 90; Pavement Markings - two-way left-turn lane and diagram. Current corroboration read September 13, 2026: G.S. 20-146(d)(2)–(3) read; the prompt supplies the exclusive turn-lane marking rather than generalizing every center lane. ↗

  90. At night, the pavement markers facing your car appear red. What warning should that color give you?

    Correct answer: You may be traveling in the wrong direction

    The handbook identifies red pavement markers as a wrong-way indication. Treat that warning seriously and assess a safe correction; it is not an instruction to make an abrupt turn across traffic.

    Source: NCDMV Driver Handbook, revised May 2025, printing 09/25, current-linked 108-page PDF metadata modified September 10, 2026; Chapter 5 Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings; printed 88 / physical PDF 90; Pavement Markings - reflective marker colors. ↗

  91. On an ordinary North Carolina street inside municipal limits, no different speed limit has been set or posted. What is the default maximum?

    Correct answer: 35 mph.

    The statutory default inside municipal limits is 35 mph unless another lawful limit applies. Conditions can require a lower safe speed; the default is not permission to ignore hazards.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-141(a), (b)(1), (d)-(f): Speed restrictions; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  92. You are driving a passenger car outside North Carolina municipal limits where no different speed limit has been established. What is the default maximum?

    Correct answer: 55 mph.

    The default outside municipal limits is 55 mph for an ordinary passenger car. Different posted limits and conditions still govern; special school-bus limits are outside this scenario.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-141(a), (b)(2), (d)-(f): Speed restrictions; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  93. A same-direction bicyclist is neither turning nor signaling left, and all other passing requirements are satisfied. Under North Carolina's exception to a marked no-passing restriction, what minimum gap is required if your car does not completely enter the left lane?

    Correct answer: At least 4 feet between the vehicles.

    This limited exception requires at least four feet of separation OR complete entry into the left lane, together with every other condition in G.S. 20-150(e). It is not permission to pass with obstructed sight distance, an oncoming conflict or another applicable prohibition.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-150(a)-(f), especially (e)(1)-(5): Limitations on privilege of overtaking and passing; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  94. No signs or markings prescribe a different turn path. Under North Carolina's general rule, how should you approach and make an ordinary right turn?

    Correct answer: As close as practicable to the right curb or roadway edge.

    The general rule places the right-turn approach and turn as close as practicable to the right curb or edge. Follow any official directions that modify the path, and check that the turn is safe.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-153(a), (c): Turning at intersections; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  95. For a left turn at an intersection with no special directions modifying the turn, which approach lane does North Carolina's general rule require?

    Correct answer: The leftmost lane lawfully available to traffic moving in your direction.

    Approach in the extreme left-hand lane lawfully available for your direction. This does not mean entering an oncoming lane, and official turn-path directions can modify the general method.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-153(b), (c): Turning at intersections; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  96. A hazard makes driving below a posted minimum speed necessary for safe operation. Does North Carolina's minimum-speed rule require you to maintain that minimum anyway?

    Correct answer: No; necessary slowing for safe operation or compliance with law is excepted.

    The statute preserves an exception when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or compliance with law. Do not keep an unsafe speed merely to match a posted minimum.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-141(g), (h): Speed restrictions; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  97. On a street with a 35 mph speed limit, your planned turn may affect another vehicle. For at least how much of the approach must you signal continuously?

    Correct answer: The last 100 feet before the turn.

    For this situation, maintain the signal continuously for the last 100 feet before turning. You must also make sure the movement can be completed safely; signaling does not give priority.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-154(a), (b): Signals on starting, stopping or turning; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  98. You are traveling at 30 mph on a road whose speed limit is 45 mph. Another vehicle may be affected by your turn. How far before turning must your continuous turn signal begin?

    Correct answer: At least 200 feet before the turn.

    The 200-foot rule depends on the area's speed limit being 45 mph or higher, not on your current speed. Continue to check that the turn itself is safe.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-154(a), (b): Signals on starting, stopping or turning; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  99. Two cars going straight reach an uncontrolled intersection from different roads at about the same time. You are the driver on the left. What must you do?

    Correct answer: Yield to the car on your right.

    When vehicles approach or enter from different roads at approximately the same time, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right. This scenario has no officer or traffic control establishing a different priority.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-155(a): Right-of-way; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  100. You plan to turn left into a driveway. An oncoming car is close enough to be an immediate hazard, and no traffic control gives you priority. What is required?

    Correct answer: Yield to the oncoming car before turning across its path.

    A left-turning driver must yield to an opposing vehicle that is within the intersection or close enough to be an immediate hazard. The rule also applies to left turns into driveways, private roads and alleys.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-155(b): Right-of-way; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  101. You are about to enter a highway from a private driveway. Who has the right-of-way under North Carolina's entry rule?

    Correct answer: Vehicles approaching on the highway you will enter.

    A driver entering or crossing a highway from a driveway, private road, alley or building entrance must yield to all approaching vehicles on that highway. Do not treat the driveway as an equal-priority intersection.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-156(a): Exceptions to the right-of-way rule; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  102. At the end of a block in a residential district, a pedestrian is using the regular crossing formed by the sidewalk boundaries. There are no painted crosswalk lines, officers or traffic controls. What must a driver do?

    Correct answer: Yield to the pedestrian in that crossing.

    In the stated setting, the statutory crossing can be formed by the continuation of sidewalk boundaries even without paint. Yield to the pedestrian; the question excludes intersections controlled by officers or traffic-direction devices.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-155(c): Right-of-way; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  103. A properly marked school bus is stopped to load passengers on an undivided two-lane road. Its red lights are flashing, but its stop arm has not extended. What must an approaching driver do?

    Correct answer: Stop fully; the flashing red lights are enough to trigger the duty.

    For a properly marked bus stopped to receive or discharge passengers, the law applies when the mechanical stop signal OR flashing red lights are displayed. Do not wait for both devices or for a child to enter the road.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-217(a), (b), (c): Motor vehicles to stop for properly marked and designated school buses; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  104. You stopped behind a properly marked school bus loading children. Its stop arm is now withdrawn and its red stoplights are off, but the bus has not started moving. May you pass under the school-bus rule?

    Correct answer: No; remain stopped until the bus also starts to move.

    G.S. 20-217(a) requires the stop signal to be withdrawn, red stoplights turned off, AND the bus to have started moving before you proceed. Continue to watch for children and other hazards even when those conditions are met.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-217(a), (b): Motor vehicles to stop for properly marked and designated school buses; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  105. A properly marked school bus is stopped for passengers with red lights flashing on the opposite roadway of a highway separated by a physical barrier. What does North Carolina's school-bus law require of you?

    Correct answer: It does not require your opposite-direction vehicle to stop for that bus.

    The law excepts opposite-direction traffic on a separate roadway across an intervening space or physical barrier. This does not excuse traffic approaching the bus on its own roadway, and other hazards may still require slowing or stopping.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-217(a)-(c): Motor vehicles to stop for properly marked and designated school buses; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  106. A road has one through lane in each direction plus a shared center left-turn lane. A properly marked school bus opposite you is stopped for passengers with red lights flashing. Must you stop?

    Correct answer: Yes; this three-lane layout does not qualify for the center-lane exception.

    A center left-turn lane counts for this exception only when there are at least four additional lanes. One through lane each way plus the center lane is not enough, so opposite-direction traffic must stop in this scenario.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-217(a)-(c): Motor vehicles to stop for properly marked and designated school buses; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  107. A road has two through lanes in each direction plus a center left-turn lane. A properly marked school bus on the opposite side stops for passengers with red lights flashing. Which statement is correct?

    Correct answer: Opposite-direction traffic is excepted from stopping for that bus.

    The center left-turn lane qualifies because this road has at least four additional lanes. The exception is for opposite-direction traffic across the separation, not for drivers following the bus.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-217(a)-(c): Motor vehicles to stop for properly marked and designated school buses; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  108. A 17-year-old driver is moving on a public road and wants to make a hands-free call to a friend about a movie. Is hands-free use an exception to North Carolina's under-18 phone ban?

    Correct answer: No; the age-specific rule also covers hands-free calls.

    The statutory phone definition includes hands-free calling. A routine call to a friend is not one of the listed exceptions; the moving-vehicle ban applies to drivers under 18, regardless of the time they have held a license.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-137.3(a)(2), (b), (d): Unlawful use of a mobile phone by persons under 18 years of age; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  109. Which voice call is expressly excepted from North Carolina's age-specific moving-vehicle phone ban for a driver under 18?

    Correct answer: A call solely to communicate with the driver's parent.

    The age-specific statute expressly excepts communication solely with a parent, legal guardian or spouse, along with specified emergency communications. This legal exception is not a recommendation to drive distracted; separate texting rules still apply.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-137.3(b), (d): Unlawful use of a mobile phone by persons under 18 years of age; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  110. An adult is driving a moving passenger car on a public road. Does North Carolina's text-and-email rule permit reading a normal text message just because it was saved on the phone before the trip?

    Correct answer: No; the rule covers stored as well as newly transmitted messages.

    The rule prohibits reading ordinary email or text messages stored in or transmitted to the phone while operating in this moving-vehicle scenario. The law has specific exceptions, but an old saved message is not one of them.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-137.4A(a)(2), (b): Unlawful use of mobile telephone for text messaging or email; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  111. An adult rides in the rear seat of a passenger car manufactured with seat belts. The car is moving forward on a public street, and no statutory exception applies. Must the adult wear the belt?

    Correct answer: Yes; the requirement includes rear-seat occupants.

    The ordinary seat-belt requirement covers each occupant, not just front-seat occupants, while the vehicle moves forward on a street or highway. The scenario expressly excludes the statute's specific exceptions.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-135.2A(a), (c): Seat belt use mandatory; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  112. A 7-year-old child weighing 60 pounds rides in an ordinary car with an available lap-and-shoulder-belt seating position. No statutory exception applies. What does North Carolina require?

    Correct answer: A properly used, weight-appropriate child passenger restraint system.

    A child under 8 AND under 80 pounds must use a weight-appropriate child restraint, such as a suitable booster when appropriate for the child and restraint instructions. The narrow lap-belt-only provision does not apply to the available seating stated here.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-137.1(a), (a1), (b): Child restraint systems required; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  113. A driver transports a 14-year-old in an ordinary seat-belt-equipped car, with no exception applying. Whose duty under North Carolina's child-restraint statute is it to ensure that the passenger is properly secured?

    Correct answer: The driver transporting the child.

    The statute places the duty on every driver transporting passengers younger than 16 to have them properly secured in an appropriate restraint or seat belt. It is not shifted away merely because a child is a teenager or a parent is absent.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-137.1(a), (b): Child restraint systems required; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  114. When North Carolina law requires you to stop at a railroad grade crossing, how far from the nearest rail must the stop be?

    Correct answer: At least 15 feet but no more than 50 feet.

    A required railroad stop must be within 50 feet of the nearest rail but not closer than 15 feet. Stay stopped until crossing is safe and continue to obey the applicable warnings.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-142.1(a): Obedience to railroad signal; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  115. Rail maintenance equipment is plainly approaching a crossing close enough to be a hazard. Does North Carolina's railroad-stop statute apply even though no conventional train is present?

    Correct answer: Yes; it expressly includes on-track equipment.

    Current G.S. 20-142.1 covers railroad trains AND on-track equipment. Plainly visible equipment in hazardous proximity is an independent stop condition; the older handbook's quoted statute omits that wording.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-142.1(a)(1)-(4): Obedience to railroad signal; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  116. During daytime rain, your windshield wipers are running continuously as you drive on a highway. What lighting does North Carolina require?

    Correct answer: Lighted headlamps and rear lamps.

    The wiper provision requires headlamps and rear lamps when wipers are used for the specified conditions. This scenario uses continuous rain wiping; the statute separately excepts intermittent wiping in misting rain, sleet or snow, without cancelling other lighting duties.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-129(a)(4): Required lighting equipment of vehicles; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  117. Separate from the weather-and-wiper provision, North Carolina requires lights when insufficient light prevents clearly seeing a person on the highway at what distance ahead?

    Correct answer: 400 feet.

    The insufficient-light provision uses 400 feet. The statute has separate sunset-to-sunrise and weather/wiper requirements; do not confuse this particular threshold with the separate 500-foot severe-visibility language.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-129(a)(2), distinguished from (a)(4): Required lighting equipment of vehicles; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  118. An ambulance approaches with lights and siren on a two-way undivided street. No officer directs you otherwise. What must you do?

    Correct answer: Pull as far right as possible, clear of intersections, and stop until it passes.

    Move to a position as near as possible and parallel to the right edge or curb, clear of intersections, then remain stopped until the ambulance passes unless lawfully directed otherwise. The separate opposite-direction divided limited-access-highway exception is not this scenario.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-157(a): Approach of emergency vehicles; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  119. A police vehicle is stopped within 12 feet of the roadway with warning lights on. You are in the nearer of two lanes in your direction and can change lanes safely without interfering with traffic. No official directs otherwise. What is required?

    Correct answer: Move into the lane farther from it and stay there until safely clear.

    When the stated lane-change conditions are met, move out of the lane nearest the stopped authorized vehicle and remain in the farther lane until safely clear. Slowing is the specified alternative when there is only one lane or a safe lane change cannot be made.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-157(f)(1), with (f)(2) distinction: Approach of emergency vehicles - move over; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

  120. You approach a stopped ambulance within 12 feet of the road with warning lights on. Traffic prevents a safe move to the farther lane, and no official directs otherwise. What must you do?

    Correct answer: Reduce to a safe speed and be prepared to stop until completely past it.

    If a lane change cannot be made safely without interfering with traffic, slow to a safe reduced speed and be ready to stop until completely past the authorized vehicle. Do not force an unsafe lane change.

    Source: North Carolina General Statutes, G.S. 20-157(f)(2), with (f)(1) distinction: Approach of emergency vehicles - move over; current enacted text reviewed September 13, 2026 ↗

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