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Driving news: North Carolina

North Carolina no longer asks teens for a Driving Eligibility Certificate

Last updated

Since October 1, 2026, a North Carolina teen no longer needs a Driving Eligibility Certificate from school to get the Level 1 learner permit. The rest of the Level 1 checklist stays.

  • Oct. 1, 2026in effect since
  • Not neededschool eligibility certificate
  • $25.50Level 1 permit
A teenager and his mother smile as they read a document outside a government building.
Illustration made with AI

What changed

A state law that took effect on October 1, 2026 ended the Driving Eligibility Certificate, the school form that teens had to bring to show they were on track in school. NCDMV says it is no longer needed for the limited learner permit.

What you still need

You still apply at 15 to 17 with a Driver's Education Certificate from an approved course, proof of identity, Social Security number and North Carolina residency, and a parent or guardian with you. You pass the written, sign and vision tests and pay $25.50. After that, Level 1 still means at least nine months with the permit and a driving log.

What to do now

Some older checklists still list the certificate. Go by NCDMV's Teen Drivers page, and check the required documents before your visit.

Official sources

  1. NCDMV — Teen Drivers
  2. NCDMV — Level 1 Limited Learner Permit
  3. NCDMV — Required Documents

Independent study resource. Road to Permit is not affiliated with or endorsed by any DMV, DPS, FLHSMV or other government agency. Official state sources control if information changes.