How many hours of pre-license education does North Carolina require for auto repair technicians?

8 hours for Safety Inspection Mechanic, Emissions Inspection Mechanic, as set by the NC Division of Motor Vehicles (License and Theft Bureau).

Is an exam required to get licensed in North Carolina?

Our research of the NC Division of Motor Vehicles (License and Theft Bureau) rule does not show a required exam alongside the education hours. Confirm with the board before you apply.

Can I complete these hours online?

Yes. Our pre-license courses are delivered entirely online and self-paced, with a certificate of completion issued as soon as you finish.

How to get a Safety Inspection Mechanic license in North Carolina

The NC Division of Motor Vehicles (License and Theft Bureau) sets the education you must complete before it will license you. Here is the exact requirement, by license class.

NC Division of Motor Vehicles (License and Theft Bureau)

Required hours by license class

Safety Inspection Mechanic · Emissions Inspection Mechanic

8 required hours

We have researched this requirement and are building the course now.

Source: NC Division of Motor Vehicles (License and Theft Bureau) · verified 2026-09-29

Common questions

How many hours of pre-license education does North Carolina require for auto repair technicians?: 8 hours for Safety Inspection Mechanic, Emissions Inspection Mechanic, as set by the NC Division of Motor Vehicles (License and Theft Bureau).
Is an exam required to get licensed in North Carolina?: Our research of the NC Division of Motor Vehicles (License and Theft Bureau) rule does not show a required exam alongside the education hours. Confirm with the board before you apply.
Can I complete these hours online?: Yes. Our pre-license courses are delivered entirely online and self-paced, with a certificate of completion issued as soon as you finish.