What is the minimum age to obtain a driver's license in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the minimum age to obtain a full, unrestricted driver's license is 18, but individuals can obtain a limited provisional license at the age of 16. This means that at 15 years old, individuals can start the process by obtaining a learner's permit, which allows them to practice driving under certain conditions, such as with a licensed adult in the vehicle. The correct answer, indicating 16 years, reflects the age at which a limited provisional license can be issued, enabling young drivers to gain more independence on the road while still under certain restrictions. As such, understanding the progression from a learner's permit to a provisional license is critical for drivers in North Carolina.