North Carolina has a graduated license, which means that you must go through levels to earn your full license privileges. After your permit, and once you turn 16 years old, you can get your provisional license, but if you have had any speeding ticket, this could delay your ability to move to this step.
According to the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, if you have a moving violation in the six months before turning 16, you cannot get your provisional license. Speeding, not wearing your seatbelt or any other traffic ticket may also hinder your ability to continue through the graduated system to receive your full driving privileges.
Full license privileges
The last step in the process is a full provisional license, which requires holding your provisional license for at least six months. You also cannot have any type of traffic conviction in the past six months.
This level of licensing grants you full driving privileges, but it requires showing you are a responsible driver who understands the importance of following all road laws. The restrictions put in place preventing you from moving to this last level are there to help you be a good driver.
Beyond the license
Even if you do not mind having to wait to get your full license due to a traffic ticket, you will still have other consequences. In most cases, you will have to pay a fine and court costs. You may also have to go to court for the ticket. The infraction will also go on your driving record, which could increase your insurance costs.
