What the Missouri written test covers and how it is scored

Missouri's written knowledge test has 25 questions drawn from the Missouri Driver Guide. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass — that is a score of 76 percent. The test covers traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and right-of-way rules specific to Missouri roads.

The test is administered on a computer at your local Missouri Department of Revenue office. You read each question on screen, select your answer from multiple choices, and the system scores you when ready. If you pass, you move forward in the licensing process. If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day, though you will pay the test fee again.

Missouri does not publish the exact number of times you can retake the test, but there is no stated limit. Most people pass on their first or second attempt if they study the Driver Guide beforehand.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a score of 76 percent or higher (19 out of 25 questions correct) to pass the Missouri written test.
  • The test is taken on a computer at a Missouri Department of Revenue office and covers only material in the official Missouri Driver Guide.
  • You can retake the test the same day if you fail, but you will pay the test fee each time.
  • The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete once you are seated at the computer.
  • You must bring a valid form of identification and proof of your Social Security number to take the test.

What documents you need to bring to the test

Bring your completed process form (DL 44) and at least one form of valid identification. A passport, military ID, or state ID from another state all work. You also need proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return are the most common documents accepted.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They must sign your process in front of the examiner. Bring proof of your date of birth as well, such as a birth certificate or passport.

Bring your proof of residency if you are a new Missouri resident or if your address has changed since your last license. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you live at the same address as your previous Missouri license, you may not need this.

How to study for the Missouri written test

The Missouri Driver Guide is the only source material you need. It is free and available online at the Missouri Department of Revenue website, or you can pick up a printed copy at any Department of Revenue office. Read through the entire guide at least once, paying close attention to sections on traffic signs, right-of-way, speed limits, and parking rules.

After you read the guide, take the practice test available on the Missouri Department of Revenue website. The practice test has the same format as the real test — 25 multiple-choice questions — and covers the same topics. Your score on the practice test is a good indicator of whether you are ready for the real test. If you score below 76 percent on the practice test, review the sections where you missed questions and take the practice test again.

Many people find it helpful to focus on the road signs section, since sign recognition makes up a significant portion of the test. The Driver Guide includes color images of every sign you need to know. Spend extra time on warning signs and regulatory signs, as these appear frequently on the test.

Common mistakes that cause test failure

The most common mistake is not reading the Missouri Driver Guide before taking the test. Some people assume they can pass based on general driving knowledge or what they learned in another state. Missouri has specific rules about right-of-way, speed limits in residential areas, and seat belt laws that differ from other states. If you have not read the guide, you will likely fail.

Another frequent error is misunderstanding right-of-way rules at four-way stops and uncontrolled intersections. Missouri has specific rules about who goes first, and the test includes multiple questions on this topic. Read the right-of-way section of the Driver Guide twice if you are unsure about these rules.

A third mistake is rushing through the practice test without reviewing your wrong answers. If you miss a question on the practice test, look up the correct answer in the Driver Guide and understand why that answer is correct. straightforward retaking the practice test without this review will not improve your score on the real test.

What happens if you fail the test

If you score below 76 percent, you will be told when ready at the Department of Revenue office. You can retake the test the same day if you wish. Most offices allow you to step aside, review the Driver Guide for 15 to 30 minutes, and then take the test again without leaving the building.

You will pay the test fee again for each retake. The fee varies by office but is typically between $5 and $10. There is no waiting period between attempts on the same day, but if you leave the office and return another day, you may need to schedule a new appointment depending on your local office's procedures.

If you fail multiple times, take a longer break between attempts. Spend several days reviewing the Driver Guide, take the practice test again, and identify the specific topics where you are weak. Rushing back to retake the test without additional study rarely results in a passing score.

Test accommodations for people with disabilities

Missouri offers test accommodations for people with documented disabilities. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can request a sign language interpreter or written instructions. If you have a visual impairment, the test can be read aloud to you by an examiner, or you can use a screen reader on the computer.

If you have a learning disability or cognitive disability, you may be able to request extra time to complete the test. Contact your local Missouri Department of Revenue office at least one week before your scheduled test date to request accommodations. You will need to provide documentation of your disability, such as a letter from your doctor or a copy of your Individualized Education Plan (IEP) if you are in school.

The Department of Revenue website lists the specific accommodations available and the documentation required for each type of disability. Call ahead to confirm that your local office can provide the accommodation you need on the day of your test.

When you can take the test and how to schedule

Missouri Department of Revenue offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Most offices do not require an appointment for the written test, but some locations do, especially in larger cities. Check your local office's website or call ahead to confirm whether you need to schedule in advance.

You can take the test any day the office is open, as long as you have all required documents with you. There is no waiting period between when you submit your process and when you can take the test — you can often take it the same day you explore. Plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes at the office total, including time to complete your process, pay fees, and take the test.

If your local office is very busy, you may have a short wait. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week (Tuesday through Thursday) typically means shorter wait times than Friday afternoons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. You cannot bring any study materials, phones, or notes into the testing area. The test is proctored, and the examiner will watch you while you take it. You are allowed only a pen and paper if you need to write down information while you think through a question, but you cannot refer to outside materials.

What if I do not pass the written test on my first try?

You can retake the test the same day at most Missouri Department of Revenue offices. You will pay the test fee again. If you fail a second time, take several days to study before your next attempt. Review the specific sections of the Driver Guide where you missed questions, and retake the practice test to check your progress.

Is the Missouri written test available in languages other than English?

Yes. Missouri offers the written test in Spanish and several other languages. Contact your local Department of Revenue office to confirm which languages are available at your location. You may need to schedule your test in advance if your office does not regularly offer tests in your language.

How long is the written test score valid?

Your passing written test score is valid for 180 days from the date you pass. This means you have six months to complete your road test and obtain your license. If you do not pass the road test within that time, you will need to retake the written test before you can try the road test again.

Can I take the test if I have an out-of-state driver's license?

Yes. You can take the Missouri written test even if you currently hold a valid license from another state. However, you will still need to pass both the written and road tests to obtain a Missouri license. Some states have reciprocal agreements with Missouri that may waive the written test, so ask at your local Department of Revenue office whether you may have access to for a waiver.