North Carolina permit test: speed limits & control

Posted and basic speed laws, statutory limits and adjusting speed to conditions. 5 questions.

Question 1 of 5
Speed limits & controlNorth Carolina rule

Unless a sign says otherwise, what is the speed limit in North Carolina cities and towns?

Keyboard: press 1–4 or A–D to answer, Enter for the next question, S to save, R to read aloud, P to pause reading, L to listen and answer.

Sample speed limits & control questions

  1. Unless a sign says otherwise, what is the speed limit in North Carolina cities and towns?

    • A 30 mph
    • B 35 mph
    • C 45 mph
    • D 25 mph
    Show answer

    B. 35 mph

    North Carolina's default speed limit in cities and towns is 35 mph unless a different limit is posted. Special zones, such as school zones, may post lower limits.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, page 55

  2. Unless otherwise posted, what is the maximum speed limit on North Carolina roads outside cities and towns?

    • A 60 mph
    • B 65 mph
    • C 55 mph
    • D 45 mph
    Show answer

    C. 55 mph

    The handbook lists a maximum of 55 mph outside cities and towns. Higher limits, up to 70 mph on interstates, apply only where posted.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, page 55

  3. What is the highest maximum speed limit the North Carolina handbook lists for interstates?

    • A 70 mph
    • B 80 mph
    • C 65 mph
    • D 75 mph
    Show answer

    A. 70 mph

    North Carolina's maximum speed limit for interstates is 70 mph. Always obey the posted limit, which may be lower, and slow down further for conditions.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, page 55

  4. According to the North Carolina handbook, which car is much more likely to be involved in a crash?

    • A One going exactly at the posted speed limit on a clear day
    • B One going at the normal speed of traffic
    • C One going considerably below the posted limit
    • D One traveling in the far right lane
    Show answer

    C. One going considerably below the posted limit

    Studies show a vehicle going well below the posted limit is much more likely to cause or be in a crash. Other drivers come up on it quickly or take risks to pass, especially just past hills and curves.

    Source: North Carolina Driver Handbook, page 55