The number of questions varies by state, from 20 to 50
There is no single permit test. Each state sets its own written exam for the learner's permit, and the number of questions ranges from 20 in some states to 50 in others. Most states cluster around 30 to 40 questions. The test you take depends entirely on which state issued your learner's permit process.
The written permit test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, safe driving practices, and traffic laws specific to your state. You must pass this test before you can drive with a licensed adult. The passing score is usually 70 to 80 percent, though this also varies by state.
Because the test is state-specific, you cannot use another state's study materials and expect the same questions. If you move states before taking your permit test, you will need to study the new state's handbook and take that state's exam instead.
Key Takeaways
- Most states give between 30 and 40 questions on the written permit test, but the exact number depends on your state's DMV rules.
- You must score at least 70 to 80 percent to pass, depending on your state — check your state's DMV website for the exact passing score.
- The test covers your state's traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules, so study your state's driver's handbook, not a generic one.
- If you fail the test, most states let you retake it the same day or within a few days, though some charge a retest fee.
Question counts by state
The following table shows the number of questions on the written permit test in each state. Some states offer the test in multiple languages, but the number of questions remains the same.
| State | Number of Questions | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 30 | 80% |
| Alaska | 20 | 80% |
| Arizona | 30 | 80% |
| Arkansas | 25 | 80% |
| California | 36 | 83% |
| Colorado | 25 | 80% |
| Connecticut | 25 | 80% |
| Delaware | 30 | 80% |
| Florida | 40 | 80% |
| Georgia | 40 | 80% |
| Hawaii | 30 | 70% |
| Idaho | 33 | 80% |
| Illinois | 35 | 78% |
| Indiana | 50 | 80% |
| Iowa | 35 | 80% |
| Kansas | 25 | 80% |
| Kentucky | 35 | 80% |
| Louisiana | 40 | 80% |
| Maine | 30 | 80% |
| Maryland | 25 | 80% |
| Massachusetts | 25 | 80% |
| Michigan | 50 | 80% |
| Minnesota | 40 | 80% |
| Mississippi | 30 | 80% |
| Missouri | 25 | 80% |
| Montana | 33 | 80% |
| Nebraska | 35 | 80% |
| Nevada | 50 | 80% |
| New Hampshire | 25 | 80% |
| New Jersey | 50 | 80% |
| New Mexico | 35 | 75% |
| New York | 20 | 80% |
| North Carolina | 25 | 80% |
| North Dakota | 25 | 80% |
| Ohio | 40 | 80% |
| Oklahoma | 50 | 80% |
| Oregon | 35 | 80% |
| Pennsylvania | 18 | 80% |
| Rhode Island | 25 | 80% |
| South Carolina | 30 | 80% |
| South Dakota | 25 | 80% |
| Tennessee | 30 | 80% |
| Texas | 30 | 70% |
| Utah | 25 | 80% |
| Vermont | 20 | 80% |
| Virginia | 35 | 70% |
| Washington | 35 | 80% |
| West Virginia | 35 | 80% |
| Wisconsin | 50 | 80% |
| Wyoming | 25 | 80% |
These numbers are current as of 2024, but states occasionally change their test format. Before you take the test, visit your state's DMV website to confirm the exact number of questions and passing score for your state.
What the test covers
The written permit test focuses on four main areas: traffic signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, safe driving practices, and your state's specific traffic laws. Most questions are multiple choice with four answer options. A few states include true-or-false questions, but these are less common.
You study for the test using your state's official driver's handbook, which is free and available on your state DMV website. The handbook contains all the information needed to pass. Many states also offer practice tests online, either on the DMV website itself or through third-party sites that pull questions from the official handbook.
The test does not include any driving component — it is entirely written. You take it at a DMV office or an approved testing location, on a computer or on paper depending on your state's system. You will have a set amount of time to complete it, usually 30 minutes to one hour.
Retaking the test if you fail
If you do not reach the passing score on your first attempt, you can retake the test. Most states allow you to retake it the same day or within a few days, though some require you to wait 24 hours or longer between attempts. A few states charge a retest fee, usually $5 to $10, while others do not.
Check your state's DMV website or ask at the testing location what the retake policy is. Some states limit the number of times you can retake the test in a certain period — for example, you might be allowed three attempts in 30 days. If you fail multiple times, you may need to wait a set period before trying again.
The best way to avoid retaking the test is to study the official handbook thoroughly before your first attempt. Most people who fail did not study the handbook or studied outdated materials instead.
Taking the test online versus in person
Some states offer the written permit test at home through a proctored online system, while others require you to take it at a DMV office or testing center. A few states offer both options. Online testing is typically available only if you meet certain requirements — for example, you may need to be a certain age or have already passed a vision screening.
If your state offers online testing, you will need a computer with a webcam, a stable internet connection, and a quiet space where you can take the test without interruption. The proctoring system will monitor you during the test to prevent cheating. You will need to show a valid ID to the camera before the test begins.
In-person testing at a DMV office or testing center does not require any special equipment beyond showing up with your ID and any documents your state requires. This is still the most common way to take the permit test across the country.
Documents you need to bring
When you go to take the written permit test, bring the documents your state requires. Most states ask for proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Some states also require proof that you have completed a driver education course before you can take the test.
Check your state's DMV website before your test date to see the exact list of documents you need. Showing up without the right documents will result in your test being cancelled, and you may have to reschedule and pay again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a study app instead of the official handbook?
Study apps can help, but they work best alongside the official handbook, not instead of it. Many apps pull questions directly from the handbook, so they are accurate. However, some third-party apps contain outdated or incorrect information. Use your state's official handbook as your primary source and treat apps as a supplement for practice.
What happens if I run out of time during the test?
If you do not finish all the questions before time runs out, your test ends and you are scored on the questions you completed. Unanswered questions count as wrong. This is why it is important to pace yourself and not spend too long on any single question.
Do I need to pass the written test before I can take the road test?
Yes. You must pass the written permit test first to get your learner's permit. Only after you have the permit can you schedule and take the road test with a licensed examiner. The written test comes first in every state.
Can I bring notes or study materials into the testing room?
No. You cannot bring any notes, books, phones, or other materials into the testing room. The test is proctored, and bringing unauthorized materials will result in your test being cancelled and you may be banned from retesting for a period of time.
Is the permit test the same as the driver's license test?
No. The written permit test is for your learner's permit. The written driver's license test comes later and covers similar material but may have different questions and a different number of questions. Some states combine them into one test, but most give them separately.