How many practice hours do you need in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, a learner driver must log 60 hours of supervised driving practice—including 10 at night—before applying for a license.
North Carolina learner permit requirements
- Minimum permit age: 15
- Supervised practice required: 60 hours total, 10 at night
- Permit hold period: 12 months
- License eligibility age: 16
- How hours are certified: Driving log of 60 hours (10 at night) certified by the supervising driver.
During Level 1 (Limited Learner Permit), drivers must complete 60 hours of supervised driving (10 at night) over at least 12 months before moving to Level 2.
Requirements change and have exceptions. Always confirm the current rules with the NC DMV before applying.
North Carolina's graduated licensing stages
Drive only with a supervising adult; log 60 hours (10 at night) over 12 months.
Drive unsupervised 5 a.m.–9 p.m.; one young passenger limit applies.
Issued after 6 months at Level 2 with a clean record; restrictions removed.
Driving restrictions for new North Carolina drivers
At Level 2 (Limited Provisional) you may drive unsupervised only between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m.; outside those hours a supervising driver must be present (exceptions for work and emergencies).
At Level 2 you may have only one passenger under 21 unless they're members of your household.
Drivers under 18 may not use a mobile phone while driving.
Log every North Carolina practice hour automatically
DriveMint tracks each supervised drive with GPS, separates day and night hours, and generates a DMV-ready report—so you can prove all 60 hours without a paper logbook.
North Carolina driving practice FAQs
How many driving hours do you need in North Carolina?+
North Carolina requires 60 hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 at night, before applying for a license.
What are North Carolina's GDL levels?+
Level 1 (Limited Learner Permit) at 15, Level 2 (Limited Provisional) at 16, and Level 3 (Full Provisional) at 16½ after a clean six months at Level 2.
Can I drive after 9 p.m. with a Level 2 license?+
Only with a supervising driver, or for documented work or emergencies — otherwise unsupervised driving is limited to 5 a.m.–9 p.m.