What the New York Online Permit Test Is and Who Can Take It
New York offers an online version of the written learner's permit test through an approved testing vendor. You take the exam on your own computer at home or another private location, not at a DMV office. The test covers the same material and has the same passing score requirement as the in-person version — you need 14 out of 20 questions correct.
You can take the online test if you are at least 16 years old and have never held a New York driver's license or permit. The test is available in English and Spanish. You do not need to visit a DMV office to complete the written exam portion, though you will still need to go in person later to provide your documents, pay the permit fee, and have your photo taken.
The online test is run through a vendor called Examity, which handles the proctoring and security. You will need a computer with a webcam, microphone, and stable internet connection. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete once you start.
Key Takeaways
- You register and pay the test fee ($10) directly through Examity's website, not through the DMV.
- You must pass the written test before you can schedule an in-person appointment at a DMV office to get your physical permit card.
- The online test is proctored by webcam, so you need a quiet private space, a working camera and microphone, and a government-issued ID to verify your identity.
- Passing the online test does not issue your permit — it only clears you to complete the in-person step at the DMV.
How to Register and Schedule Your Online Test
Go to the Examity website and create an account. You will provide your name, date of birth, email address, and mailing address. You must use the same name and date of birth that appear on your government-issued ID, because Examity will verify this information during the test.
After you create your account, select the New York learner's permit test and choose a test date and time. Examity offers testing windows throughout the week, including evenings and weekends. You will pay the $10 test fee at registration using a credit or debit card. Once you complete payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your test appointment details.
Write down your test date, time, and any confirmation number provided. You will need this information when you log in to take the test. Examity will also send you a link to a system check tool — use it before your test date to make sure your computer, camera, and internet connection meet the requirements.
What to Have Ready Before You Start the Test
You must have a valid government-issued photo ID with you during the test. Acceptable IDs include a U.S. passport, passport card, state ID card, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. Your ID must show your name and date of birth, and the name on your ID must match exactly what you used to register with Examity.
Find a quiet, private space where you can take the test without interruption. The proctor will monitor your webcam throughout the exam, so you cannot have other people in the room, and you cannot leave the camera's view. Clear your desk of all materials except your ID — no books, notes, phones, or other devices are allowed.
Test your internet connection before your appointment time. A wired connection is more stable than Wi-Fi, but either can work if the connection is strong. Log in to Examity at least 10 minutes before your scheduled test time. The proctor will verify your identity by asking you to show your ID to the camera and may ask you to show your testing space.
The Test Content and Passing Requirements
The online test has 20 multiple-choice questions about New York traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and permit holder restrictions. You have one attempt to pass. The questions come from the same pool used for in-person tests, so studying the New York Driver's Manual is the best way to prepare.
You must answer at least 14 questions correctly to pass. If you pass, Examity will issue you a test pass certificate when ready after you finish. If you do not pass, you can retake the test, but you will need to pay the $10 fee again and schedule a new appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may want to study more before your next try.
Keep your pass certificate or confirmation number. You will need to show this when you go to the DMV to complete your in-person appointment and receive your physical permit card.
What Happens After You Pass the Online Test
Passing the online test does not give you a permit yet. It only means you have cleared the written exam requirement. You must schedule an in-person appointment at a New York DMV office to finish the process.
At your DMV appointment, you will bring your test pass certificate, proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and the permit process fee (currently $24.50 for a five-year permit). The DMV will take your photo, verify your documents, and issue your physical learner's permit card. This appointment usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.
You can schedule your DMV appointment online through the New York DMV website or by calling 518-402-4368. Many offices have limited appointment availability, so book as soon as you pass your online test if you want a specific date.
Common Problems During the Online Test
If your internet connection drops during the test, try to log back in when ready using the same link. Examity may allow you to resume where you left off, depending on how long you were disconnected. If you cannot reconnect within a few minutes, contact Examity support right away — they may be able to help you reschedule or refund your fee.
If the proctor asks you to leave the camera view or says your testing space is not acceptable, the test will be stopped. Common reasons include having another person in the room, having unauthorized materials visible, or poor lighting that prevents the proctor from seeing your face clearly. You will need to pay the fee again and reschedule if this happens.
If you have a disability or need testing accommodations, contact the New York DMV before you register with Examity. The DMV can provide you with a code or letter to give to Examity that explains what accommodations you need, such as extra time or a screen reader. Examity will work with you to set up the test with these accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the online test if I already have a driver's license from another state?
No. The online test is only for people who have never held a New York driver's license or permit. If you have an out-of-state license, you must take the in-person written test at a DMV office instead. You may be able to transfer your out-of-state license without taking a written test — contact the DMV to find out what documents you need.
What if I fail the online test?
You can retake it as many times as you need. Each attempt costs $10, and you must schedule a new test appointment through Examity. There is no waiting period between attempts, so you can take it again the next day if you want. Many people study the New York Driver's Manual more thoroughly before their second attempt.
Do I need to bring my online test pass to the DMV, or does the DMV already know I passed?
Bring your test pass certificate or confirmation number with you to your DMV appointment. The DMV office may have access to Examity's records, but it is safer to have the certificate in hand. If there is any delay in the records reaching the DMV, your certificate proves you passed and are ready for your in-person appointment.
How long is my online test pass valid?
Your test pass does not expire, but you must complete your in-person DMV appointment within a reasonable time. If you wait several months, the DMV may ask you to retake the test to make sure you still know the material. It is best to schedule your DMV appointment within a few weeks of passing the online test.
Can I use my phone or tablet instead of a computer?
Examity requires a computer with a webcam and microphone. Phones and tablets may not work because the test software and proctoring system are designed for desktop or laptop computers. Check Examity's system requirements before your test date to make sure your device is compatible.