NC DMV Permit Test key terms

A red, eight-sided sign that requires a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or edge of the intersection before you go on when the way is clear.

A red-and-white triangular sign meaning you must slow down and let traffic on the intersecting road go first, stopping only if needed to avoid a crash.

A signal that works like a stop sign: come to a full stop, then go only when it is safe. At intersections, treat it like a four-way stop.

A signal telling you to slow down and use caution. It does not require a stop unless traffic, a pedestrian, or another hazard makes stopping necessary.

A line marking the center of a two-way road. It separates traffic moving in opposite directions, and passing is not allowed when the line is on your side.

A dashed white line that separates lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. You may cross it to change lanes when it is safe to do so.

Two yellow lines side by side meaning neither direction of traffic may pass. You may cross them only to turn left into a driveway or side road.

A stretch of road marked by signs or pavement lines where overtaking another vehicle is prohibited, usually because of limited sight distance or heavy traffic.

A place where a road crosses train tracks, marked by signs and often gates or flashing lights. Stop when lights flash or a train approaches, and never drive around lowered gates.

The legal priority to go first at an intersection or when vehicles meet. It is given by law or yielded by others; it is never taken by force or simply assumed.

An intersection where all approaching traffic faces a stop sign. The first vehicle to stop goes first; if two stop at once, the one on the right goes first.

In North Carolina you may turn left onto a one-way street from a one-way street after stopping for a red light, if no sign forbids it and the way is clear.

A circular intersection with no traffic signal. Traffic already in the circle has the right of way; enter to the right, yield, then exit when you reach your road.

Overtaking a slower vehicle by moving into the left lane after checking mirrors and blind spots, signaling, and returning right only when you can see the passed car.

The rule that you must never drive faster than is reasonable and prudent for current conditions, even when you are under the posted speed limit.

A way to judge following distance: watch the car ahead pass a fixed object, then count three seconds before you reach it. Increase the gap in rain, darkness, or heavy traffic.

Any activity that takes your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving, such as texting, eating, or tuning a radio. North Carolina bans texting while driving.

Driving while sleepy or fatigued, which slows reaction time and can cause you to nod off. The safe response is to stop and rest, not to roll down a window.

An area around your vehicle that you cannot see in the mirrors. Check over your shoulder before changing lanes, because a car, bicycle, or motorcycle may be hidden there.

The percentage of alcohol in your blood, used to measure impairment. In North Carolina it is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08 or higher at age 21 and over.

A North Carolina charge for operating a vehicle while affected by alcohol, drugs, or a combination that impairs your ability to drive safely. It can apply even below a 0.08 BAC.

By driving on North Carolina roads you agree to submit to a chemical test of breath or blood when lawfully requested by an officer investigating impaired driving. Refusal can cost your license.

The rule that drivers under 21 must not drive with any alcohol in their system; a measurable BAC results in license suspension and other penalties.

An open bottle or can of alcohol inside the passenger area of a vehicle. North Carolina law prohibits open containers of alcohol in the passenger area while the vehicle is on a highway.

North Carolina requires the driver and all front-seat passengers to wear seat belts, and every passenger under 16 must be buckled in any seating position.

A federally approved restraint that must be used for children young or small enough to need it. North Carolina requires a rear-facing seat for children under 2 unless they exceed the seat's limits.

Lights on the front of a vehicle that let you see and be seen. North Carolina requires them from sunset to sunrise and whenever visibility is poor, including in rain or fog.

Lights that show other drivers your plan to turn or change lanes. Signal at least 100 feet before a turn in town and 200 feet on the open highway.

Arm signals used when turn signals or brake lights fail: left arm straight out for a left turn, upward for a right turn, and downward for slowing or stopping.

A North Carolina law requiring drivers to change lanes away from a stopped emergency, tow, or utility vehicle with flashing lights, or to slow down if a lane change is not possible.

The hinged stop sign that swings out from a school bus picking up or dropping off children. Traffic in both directions must stop unless separated by a median or physical barrier.

A marked or unmarked path where pedestrians cross a road. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk and must not pass a vehicle stopped there for a pedestrian.

When tires ride on a layer of water instead of the road, causing loss of steering and braking. Ease off the gas, keep the wheel straight, and avoid hard braking until grip returns.

A thin, nearly invisible layer of ice on the road, often on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas. Slow down and make no sudden moves when temperatures are near freezing.

An area where road construction or maintenance is underway. Speed limits are reduced, fines are doubled, and lanes may shift, so slow down and watch signs and flaggers closely.

A cloud near the ground that cuts visibility. Use low-beam headlights, slow down, and increase following distance; never use high beams because the light reflects back and worsens glare.