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Driving & Licensing· State DMVs (varies by state)

DMV Learner's Permit Test

Generic practice for state DMV written knowledge tests - federal/MUTCD content shared across most states

30
questions
25-question exam
30
minutes

Topics

Pick topics to narrow your practice - leave empty for all topics.

Read the study guide

About the DMV Learner's Permit Test

Every U.S. state requires a written knowledge test before issuing a learner's permit or first-time driver's licence. Although exam questions are written and administered by individual state DMVs, most of the underlying material is shared: federal traffic laws, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) for road signs and markings, and the safe driving practices taught nationwide.

This generic DMV reviewer focuses on the federal/MUTCD content that appears on virtually every state permit test - useful regardless of where you take the exam. For state-specific rules (e.g. California's specific BAC limits, Texas school-zone rules, New York's tinting rules), pair this reviewer with your state's official driver handbook.

What this practice test covers

  • MUTCD road signs and pavement markings
  • Right-of-way at intersections, four-way stops, and roundabouts
  • Speed limits, following distance, and stopping distance
  • Lane discipline, passing, and turning rules
  • DUI/DWI laws, BAC limits, and zero-tolerance for drivers under 21
  • School-bus, emergency vehicle, and pedestrian laws

Frequently asked

What is the passing score for the DMV permit test?

Most U.S. states require 80% or 85% to pass - typically 30 of 36, 25 of 30, or similar. The exact threshold depends on your state. Check your state DMV's website for the official pass mark.

Is the DMV permit test the same in every state?

No. While most of the content (signs, federal traffic rules) is shared, each state DMV writes its own questions and adds state-specific rules - speed limits, school-zone laws, BAC limits, and licensing rules. Always confirm your state's specifics before test day.

Can I retake the DMV permit test if I fail?

Yes. Most states allow same-day or next-business-day retakes for a small fee. Some states limit you to a set number of failed attempts before you must wait longer or repeat driver education.

Read the full study guide