North Carolina Motorcycle Permit Exam Simulator

A full-length mock motorcycle knowledge test: North Carolina does not publish the count or pass mark; we use 30 questions at 80%. New questions every attempt.

How this simulator works

  • Knowledge test: 30 questions, 24 correct to pass.
  • No time limit, like the real test. Take your time.
  • You won’t see whether you were right until the end, just like at the North Carolina test. Then you can review every answer with its explanation.
  • Questions are drawn fresh from the full North Carolina bank each time.

Sample questions

  1. Under North Carolina law, what must you have before you may operate a motorcycle on public roads?

    • A A license with a motorcycle endorsement, or a motorcycle learner permit
    • B Only a regular driver's license with no extra testing
    • C A separate motorcycle-only license card issued yearly
    • D Proof of a completed rider safety course carried while riding
    Show answer

    A. A license with a motorcycle endorsement, or a motorcycle learner permit

    North Carolina requires a regular or commercial license with a motorcycle endorsement, or a motorcycle learner permit, before you may operate a motorcycle on public roads. The endorsement shows you passed the motorcycle knowledge and skills tests; the learner permit is a temporary step for riders not yet ready for the skills test.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, page 13

  2. How far forward should you sit on the motorcycle?

    • A Wherever you can rest your weight on the bars
    • B Over the gas tank, so your chest is near the handlebars
    • C Far enough that your arms are slightly bent at the grips
    • D Far back, so your arms are fully straight
    Show answer

    C. Far enough that your arms are slightly bent at the grips

    Sit far enough forward that your arms are slightly bent when you hold the handlegrips. Bent arms let you press on the handlebars to steer without stretching.

    Source: North Carolina Motorcyclists' Handbook, page 10

  3. What causes over one-half of motorcycle/car crashes, according to the handbook?

    • A Mechanical failure of the motorcycle
    • B Drivers entering a rider's right-of-way
    • C Rear-end collisions on the highway
    • D Riders running red lights at busy intersections
    Show answer

    B. Drivers entering a rider's right-of-way

    Over one-half of motorcycle/car crashes are caused by drivers entering a rider's right-of-way. Cars turning left in front of you and cars pulling out from side streets are the biggest dangers, so intersections need your full attention.

    Source: North Carolina Motorcyclists' Handbook, page 18

  4. During a quick stop on a good surface, you accidentally lock the rear wheel. What should you do?

    • A Let go of both brakes and coast
    • B Lean the motorcycle and steer toward the shoulder to stop
    • C Release it at once and reapply it hard
    • D Keep it locked until you have completely stopped
    Show answer

    D. Keep it locked until you have completely stopped

    If you lock the rear brake on a good traction surface, keep it locked until you have stopped. Even with a locked rear wheel you can control the motorcycle on a straightaway if it is upright and going straight. A locked front wheel is different: release and reapply it.

    Source: North Carolina Motorcyclists' Handbook, page 24