NC 11 is one of the longest North Carolina state highways. It runs north/south for about 190 miles (310 km) in the state.

With the exception of a stretch between Greenville and Kinston, most of NC 11 is largely a disused rural route. All other major sections are cosigned with more major U.S. Highways, including a stretch of US 421 near the southern terminus and US 13 north of Greenville. As a through route, US 258 or US 13 travel along the same general directions, but appear to be better maintained and closer to major population centers. The central segment is mostly four lanes and divided, although not controlled access.

NC 11 has two business routes. The first travels through the town of Aulander and is five miles (8 km) in length. A second business route was formed in 2004 and goes through Bethel; this route is cosigned by U.S. Highway 13 Business and was created after a bypass route was constructed.

NC 11 was one of North Carolina's original 1921 state highways. The original routing had it running from Bethel to Kenansville. A short extension north to Oak City was done around 1930 and rerouted in 1942. During the late 1960s/early 1970s, it was extended greatly to its current route.