How long is a learner's permit valid in the US?

Typically 1–2 years depending on the state. You must complete supervised driving hours and pass the road test before it expires.

DMV Practice Test — US Driver's License Exam Prep

Q: What score do I need to pass the DMV written test?

Most states require 70–80% correct. California requires 83% (38/46), Texas requires 70% (21/30), and Florida requires 80% (40/50).

Q: How many times can I take the DMV test if I fail?

Most states allow multiple attempts, often with a waiting period of 1–7 days between tries. Some states limit the number of attempts per learner's permit application.

Q: Do I need a Social Security Number to get a driver's license in the US?

Requirements vary by state. Some states, like California under AB 60, issue licenses to undocumented residents regardless of immigration status.

Complete Guide: US DMV Driver's License Written Knowledge Test

In the United States, each state administers its own driver's license knowledge test (also called the written test or permit test) through the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or equivalent agency. You must pass this written test to obtain a learner's permit, which is the first step toward a full driver's license. Our practice tests cover all 50 states with state-specific questions.

Test Format by State (Key Examples)

California: 46 questions — need 38 correct (83%) to pass
Texas: 30 questions — need 21 correct (70%) to pass
Florida: 50 questions — need 40 correct (80%) to pass
New York: 20 questions — need 14 correct (70%) to pass
Illinois: 35 questions — need 28 correct (80%) to pass
Most states: 20–46 questions, passing score 70–80%

Topics Covered on the DMV Knowledge Test

Traffic signs: regulatory (red/white), warning (yellow), guide/informational (green/blue)
Right-of-way rules at intersections, roundabouts and crosswalks
Speed limits: school zones (15–25 mph), residential streets (25 mph), highways (55–70 mph)
Parking regulations: fire hydrants, crosswalks, bus stops, handicapped spaces
Sharing the road: pedestrians, cyclists, motorcycles, large trucks
DUI/DWI laws: legal BAC limit is 0.08% for adults (0.02–0.04% for drivers under 21)
Safe following distance (3-second rule)
School bus laws: when to stop, when passing is permitted
Railroad crossing safety procedures
Emergency vehicle procedures: pull over and stop
Seat belt laws and child safety seat requirements

How to Get Your Driver's License in the US

Step 1 — Learner's Permit: Pass the written knowledge test at your state's DMV. Bring proof of identity (passport or birth certificate), SSN (or ITIN in some states), and proof of residency
Step 2 — Practice Driving: Complete the required supervised driving hours (typically 40–50 hours in most states, including 10 hours at night)
Step 3 — Road Test: Schedule and pass the behind-the-wheel driving test at the DMV
Step 4 — Pay License Fee: Pay the applicable license fee ($20–$50 depending on the state)
Step 5 — Receive License: Get your temporary paper license and wait for the permanent plastic license in the mail (7–21 days)

Study Tips for the DMV Knowledge Test

Read your state's official Driver's Handbook from cover to cover at least once
Focus on traffic signs — they account for 25–30% of most DMV tests
Practice with timed mock exams to simulate real test conditions
Learn the specific speed limits for different zone types in your state
Study right-of-way rules carefully — they are heavily tested in all states
Pay attention to DUI laws and BAC limits, which appear on nearly every state test

Frequently Asked Questions

How many questions are on the DMV written knowledge test?

It varies by state. Most states have between 20 and 46 questions. Examples: California has 46 questions, Texas has 30, Florida has 50, New York has 20, and Illinois has 35. Select your state above to see the exact number of questions and the passing score required.

What score do I need to pass the DMV written test?

Passing scores range from 70% to 83% depending on the state. California requires 83% (38/46), Texas requires 70% (21/30), Florida requires 80% (40/50), and New York requires 70% (14/20). Our practice tests show you the exact threshold for your state.

Can I take the DMV written test in Spanish?

Yes, most states offer the knowledge test in Spanish and several other languages including Chinese, Vietnamese, Haitian Creole, Russian, and more. Contact your local DMV or check your state's DMV website to see all available language options.

How many times can I take the DMV test if I fail?

Most states allow multiple attempts with a waiting period of 1–7 days between tries. Some states limit the number of attempts before requiring you to reapply for a new learner's permit. Check your specific state's rules at their DMV website.

Do I need a Social Security Number to get a driver's license in the US?

Requirements vary by state. California (AB 60), Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, and Washington issue driver's licenses regardless of immigration status. Check your state's DMV for current requirements.

How long is a learner's permit valid?

Typically 1–2 years depending on the state. During this period you must complete the required supervised driving hours and pass the road (behind-the-wheel) test. If your permit expires before passing the road test, you may need to retake the written knowledge test.