North Carolina Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
North Carolina makes extensive use of road blocks for DUI, seatbelt and other traffic enforcement purposes.
North Carolina is notorious for citing nonresidents who then receive offers from attorneys in the locale of the violation who "guarantee" a "no point" or reduced point violation for a specified amount of money.
Left turns on red from a one-way street to another one-way street are illegal in North Carolina.
North Carolina requires that you have your headlights on whenever you are using your windshield wipers.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 35 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 55 mph |
| Interstates | 70 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | No |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid in person and some tickets can be paid by mail.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | Yes |
| Parking | Yes |
| Equipment | Yes |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $1,000 must be reported immedi-ately to the local authorities.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law.
Minimum limits: $25,000/50,000/15,000.
North Carolina has uninsured motorists law.
Regulations
- Transporting open beer and unfortified wine is permitted. All other alcoholic beverages in open containers are prohibited in the vehicle. Consumption while operating a vehicle is prohibited.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- North Carolina has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 1-year driver's license revocation .
- Loaded handguns should be holstered and may be carried openly in the vehicle's passenger compartment; loaded rifles and shotguns in a vehicle should be carried in plain view if in the passenger compartment.
- Tire chains are not required.
- North Carolina has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all occupants.
- North Carolina has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 13 years of age. Children under age 4 must use approved car safety seats.
- North Carolina has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration and insurance card must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 919/733-7952
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: HP (47)