Traffic Signs and Road Rules in North Carolina

1. What is the minimum speed limit on highways in North Carolina?


The minimum speed limit on highways in North Carolina is 55 miles per hour.

2. What is the maximum speed limit on city streets in North Carolina?


The maximum speed limit on city streets in North Carolina is generally 55 mph, although some cities may have lower limits.

3. What is the maximum speed limit when passing a school zone in North Carolina?


The maximum speed limit when passing a school zone in North Carolina is 25 mph.

4. How many feet must you remain from the vehicle ahead of you when driving in North Carolina?


In North Carolina, you must remain at least two seconds (or approximately 100 feet) behind the vehicle ahead of you.

5. What type of turn is allowed at a red light in North Carolina?


In North Carolina, a right turn is allowed at a red light after first coming to a complete stop and yielding to other traffic and pedestrians.

6. What type of turn is allowed at a green arrow light in North Carolina?


In North Carolina, a green arrow light allows a driver to make a protected turn. This means that a driver can turn in the direction indicated by the arrow without having to yield to oncoming traffic.

7. Are hand-held devices prohibited while driving in North Carolina?


Yes, holding a hand-held device while driving is prohibited in North Carolina.

8. Are drivers required to wear a seat belt in North Carolina?


Yes, all drivers and passengers are required to wear a seat belt in North Carolina.

9. Are cyclists required to wear a helmet in North Carolina?


Yes, cyclists are required to wear a helmet in North Carolina.

10. Is it permissible to use a cell phone while driving in North Carolina?


No, it is not permissible to use a cell phone while driving in North Carolina. Drivers are prohibited from using handheld devices to talk, text or access the internet while driving. Violations result in a fine of $100 for the first offense and up to $500 for subsequent offenses.

11. Is it permissible to drive with headphones on in North Carolina?


No, it is not permissible to drive with headphones on in North Carolina. This is because it can be distracting and can lead to an accident. For safety reasons, you should never drive while wearing headphones.

12. Are motorcyclists required to use headlights during the day in North Carolina?


Yes, motorcyclists in North Carolina are required to have their headlights on at all times while operating the motorcycle.

13. Is it permissible to drive through a red light if there is no traffic in the intersection in North Carolina?


No, it is not permissible to drive through a red light in North Carolina. Even if there is no traffic in the intersection, it is illegal to drive through a red light.

14. How many feet must you remain from railroad crossings in North Carolina?


200 feet.

15. Is it permissible to pass vehicles on the right on highways or other roadways in North Carolina?


No, it is not permissible to pass vehicles on the right on highways or other roadways in North Carolina. The North Carolina General Statutes section 20-150 states that “the driver of a vehicle shall not drive to the left side of the center of the highway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless authorized by law to do so.”

16. What is the maximum speed limit for trucks within city limits in North Carolina?


The maximum speed limit for trucks within city limits in North Carolina is 55 mph.

17. Are drivers required to yield to pedestrians at intersections in North Carolina?


Yes. Drivers in North Carolina must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing at intersections, marked or unmarked crosswalks, and any other location with an appropriate yield sign.

18. Are drivers required to yield to emergency vehicles with flashing lights and sirens in North Carolina?


Yes, drivers in North Carolina are required to yield to emergency vehicles with flashing lights and sirens. Drivers must pull over to the right, coming to a complete stop if necessary, and wait until the emergency vehicle has passed before continuing on their way.

19. Are drivers required to use their turn signals prior to turning or changing lanes in North Carolina?


Yes, drivers in North Carolina are required to use their turn signals prior to turning or changing lanes.

20. Is it permissible for large trucks or buses to use the left lane on highways in North Carolina?


No. In North Carolina, it is illegal for large vehicles such as buses or trucks to drive in the left lane on highways. This rule applies to all vehicles over 8,000 pounds. It is legal, however, for these large vehicles to use the left lane when passing other vehicles or making a left turn.