FAQ

Students who are at least 14½ years old and are pursuing a high school diploma or GED can enroll in an approved driver education course provided through North Carolina high schools. A birth certificate or passport is required to enroll. 

 Driver education courses consist of two phases: 

  • A classroom portion, which involves 30 hours of instruction and an eye exam 
  • A driving phase, which involves 6 hours behind the wheel

 Upon completion, students receive a Driver's Education Certificate, which allows them to apply for a Level One Limited Learner Permit at 15 years of age, the first level of North Carolina's graduated licensing process for drivers under age 18.

You must possess a driving eligibility certificate. An individual must be: Between 15 and 17 years old; currently enrolled in school; making progress toward a high school diploma or GED. If not enrolled in school, an individual must show that they or their family would face substantial hardship if the individual did not receive a drivers license. This certificate is available at your school. 

The total cost of the complete program is $65 for 30 hours of classroom and 6 hours behind the wheel. 

Students are required to complete 30 hours of instruction. If time is missed, makeup is available.  It is best not to miss, but talk with the instructor regarding any absent. If 6 or more hours are missed, the entire class must be taken over. 

  • Driver Education Certificate (Issued once program is completed) Does Not Expire
  • Driving Eligibility Certificate (lssued by School)  Expires 30 Days after issued
  • Birth Certificate
  • Social Security number
  • Document proving physical address, two documents required to get real ID 

Who are the instructors?

The North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles certifies our instructors. Our instructors have completed all training and continue to get regular training. Most of our instructors have many years experience. The course work is 80 hours plus successful completion of the Miller Road Test.

An individual must be: Between 15 and 17 years old; Currently enrolled in school; Making progress toward a high school diploma or GED. If not enrolled in school, an individual must show that they or their family would face substantial hardship if the individual did not receive a driver license. This certificate is available at your school and confirms your students eligibility according to grades / attendance / conduct.  This certificate is only good for 30 days after it is issued.   If it expires, then you will need to obtain a new certificate from your school.

Gaston County public school students call 704-922-1960 to get your Driving Eligibility Certificate. Gaston contracts with a private company to issue these certificates. Call for questions about what to bring to the appointment to get you DEC from them.

After you complete the class and behind the wheel you will prepare to go to the NCDMV for the learner's Permit. We will provide a list of things you will need to take with you. You may also use the link under navigating the NC DMV to help you prepare for your trip to the NC DMV

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