How Many Questions Are On the Permit Test? – State-by-State Guide
If you’re preparing to get your learner’s permit, one of the most common questions you’ll have is: how many questions are on the permit test? The answer depends on which U.S. state you live in, but there are general patterns that can help you understand what to expect and how to prepare.
This blog will walk you through:
- The number of questions on the permit test in every state
- The passing score and percentage required
- How the test is structured and scored
- Study tips and resources to help you pass on your first try
📘 What Is the DMV Permit Test?
The DMV permit test, also known as the written knowledge test, is a mandatory exam you must pass to get your learner’s permit. This test covers topics like:
- Traffic laws and rules of the road
- Traffic signs and signals
- Safe driving practices
- Drugs and alcohol laws
- Sharing the road with other users (bicyclists, pedestrians, etc.)
Once you pass this test, you’ll be issued a learner’s permit that allows you to legally drive under supervision while preparing for your road test.
📊 Number of Permit Test Questions by State
The number of questions on the permit test varies by state — anywhere from 18 to 50 questions. Here’s a table showing the test structure in each state:
| State | Questions | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 30 | 80% (24 correct) |
| Alaska | 20 | 80% (16 correct) |
| Arizona | 30 | 80% (24 correct) |
| Arkansas | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| California | 46 | 83% (38 correct) |
| Colorado | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| Connecticut | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| Delaware | 30 | 77% (23 correct) |
| Florida | 50 | 80% (40 correct) |
| Georgia | 40 | 75% (30 correct) |
| Hawaii | 30 | 83% (25 correct) |
| Idaho | 40 | 85% (34 correct) |
| Illinois | 35 | 80% (28 correct) |
| Indiana | 50 | 84% (42 correct) |
| Iowa | 35 | 80% (28 correct) |
| Kansas | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| Kentucky | 30 | 80% (24 correct) |
| Louisiana | 30 | 80% (24 correct) |
| Maine | 30 | 80% (24 correct) |
| Maryland | 25 | 88% (22 correct) |
| Massachusetts | 25 | 72% (18 correct) |
| Michigan | 50 | 80% (40 correct) |
| Minnesota | 40 | 80% (32 correct) |
| Mississippi | 30 | 80% (24 correct) |
| Missouri | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| Montana | 33 | 82% (27 correct) |
| Nebraska | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| Nevada | 50 | 80% (40 correct) |
| New Hampshire | 40 | 80% (32 correct) |
| New Jersey | 50 | 80% (40 correct) |
| New Mexico | 25 | 72% (18 correct) |
| New York | 20 | 70% (14 correct) |
| North Carolina | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| North Dakota | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| Ohio | 40 | 75% (30 correct) |
| Oklahoma | 50 | 80% (40 correct) |
| Oregon | 35 | 80% (28 correct) |
| Pennsylvania | 18 | 83% (15 correct) |
| Rhode Island | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| South Carolina | 30 | 80% (24 correct) |
| South Dakota | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
| Tennessee | 30 | 80% (24 correct) |
| Texas | 30 | 70% (21 correct) |
| Utah | 50 | 80% (40 correct) |
| Vermont | 20 | 80% (16 correct) |
| Virginia | 35 | 86% (30 correct) |
| Washington | 40 | 80% (32 correct) |
| West Virginia | 25 | 76% (19 correct) |
| Wisconsin | 50 | 80% (40 correct) |
| Wyoming | 25 | 80% (20 correct) |
Most states fall into the 20–50 question range. The higher the number of questions, the longer and more comprehensive the test tends to be.
✅ Permit Test Structure: What to Expect
Though the number of questions may vary, most permit tests share these common features:
- Multiple-choice format – usually 3 or 4 answer options per question
- Randomized question pool from hundreds of potential questions
- Timed or untimed – most tests allow enough time without rushing
- Computer-based – taken at a DMV or authorized testing center
- Sign recognition section – many states require identifying road signs
📉 What Is the Passing Score?
The passing percentage also varies by state. Most DMVs require a score between 70% and 85% to pass.
- 70%: Texas, New York
- 80%: Florida, Michigan, Illinois
- 83%: California, Pennsylvania
- 100% on signs: Virginia (must get all sign questions correct)
💡 Tips to Pass the Permit Test on Your First Try
- Read the Driver’s Handbook: Every question is based on your state’s official manual. Read it thoroughly.
- Take Practice Tests: Use free online resources to simulate the real test and identify weak areas.
- Study Road Signs Separately: Many tests include a specific section on traffic signs.
- Don’t Cram: Study in short sessions over a week instead of in one night.
- Rest Before the Test: Arrive well-rested and confident.
🧾 What Happens If You Fail the Test?
Don’t panic. If you don’t pass the permit test on your first try:
- Most states allow you to retake it after a short waiting period (1–7 days)
- You may be limited to 3 attempts per application
- There might be a small fee for each retake
Use the time to study areas where you struggled and take more practice tests.
📚 What Topics Are Covered on the Test?
While each state writes its own questions, the topics are generally the same:
- Right-of-way rules
- Speed limits and following distance
- Signs, signals, and pavement markings
- Lane changing and passing rules
- Emergency vehicle protocol
- Driving in special conditions (night, rain, fog)
- Alcohol, drugs, and driving laws
📱 Can You Take the Permit Test Online?
Some states now allow eligible applicants (often teens) to take the written test online. For example:
- California: Offers online testing for eligible applicants under 18.
- New York: Offers online knowledge test for some counties.
- Florida: Approved online providers offer the test to minors.
Check your DMV website to see if you qualify for online testing.
📈 Fun Facts About the Permit Test
- The permit test failure rate is about 40% nationwide.
- More than 6 million Americans take a permit test each year.
- Teen drivers who pass on their first attempt often studied with online practice tools.
📄 Required Documents to Take the Permit Test
Before you take the test, you’ll need to bring the right paperwork. Common requirements include:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement)
- Parental consent (if under 18)
🔁 How Often Can I Retake the Permit Test?
- California: 3 attempts within 12 months
- Florida: 3 online attempts; then must test in person
- New York: Unlimited tries within 2 years of application
- Texas: 3 attempts before you must pay a new fee
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all the permit tests the same?
A: No. Each state has its own test, questions, and rules based on local traffic laws.
Q: Can I use my phone or notes during the test?
A: No. The test is closed-book and often monitored to prevent cheating.
Q: Is the permit test hard?
A: It’s manageable if you study! Most questions are straightforward, but careless mistakes can cost you.
Q: Can I skip questions and come back to them?
A: Some DMV systems allow it, but not all. Be sure before clicking “Next.”
🏁 Final Thoughts
Now that you know how many questions are on the permit test and what to expect, you can approach test day with confidence. Focus on learning, take your time, and use trusted resources to prepare thoroughly.
Drive safe, study smart, and best of luck earning your permit!