What is the legal age for receiving a provisional driver's license in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, a provisional driver's license can be obtained at the age of 16. This is part of the graduated licensing system that is designed to allow young drivers to gradually gain experience and responsibility behind the wheel.

To qualify for a provisional license, individuals must have held a learner's permit for at least 12 months, during which they are required to complete a minimum number of supervised driving hours. The provisional license allows drivers to operate a vehicle under certain restrictions, such as limits on the number of passengers and nighttime driving.

The age of 15 is too early for a provisional license, as individuals at this age are only eligible for a learner’s permit, which allows them to practice driving under adult supervision. Ages 17 and 18 are also beyond the minimum legal age needed for obtaining a provisional license, as individuals at these ages can obtain a full, unrestricted license if they have met the necessary requirements.