DMV Written Test Practice
The DMV written test — also called the knowledge test or permit test — covers road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving. Practice those topics here with full tests, a 10-question diagnostic, or an adaptive mock, and confirm the official format with your state agency.
What's on the written test
Every state draws its written test from its official driver handbook. Expect questions on right-of-way rules, speed limits and safe following distance, alcohol and drug laws, parking rules, lane markings, and the meaning of road signs. The signs section trips up the most people — drill it separately if you're short on time.
Written test, knowledge test, permit test — same exam
States name the exam differently: California calls it the knowledge test, many agencies call it the written test, and most people call it the permit test. The practice tests here use recorded state study settings; confirm current official requirements with your licensing agency.
Practice your state's written test
Sample DMV written test questions
Orange-colored signs indicate:
- A. School zones
- B. Recreational areas
- C. Railroad crossings
- D. Construction zones
Show answer
D. Construction zones — Orange signs warn about construction or maintenance work zones. Slow down, watch for workers and equipment, and be ready for changing lane patterns.
Universal rule · checked against MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 2 — Signs (General) — Traffic Signs — General · verified 2026-08-01
What does a flashing red traffic light mean?
- A. Stop, then proceed when safe
- B. Slow down and proceed with caution
- C. Yield to cross traffic
- D. Slow down but do not stop
Show answer
A. Stop, then proceed when safe — A flashing red light means the same as a stop sign - you must come to a complete stop, then proceed when safe.
Universal rule · checked against MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 4 — Highway Traffic Signals — Highway Traffic Signals · verified 2026-08-01
Double solid yellow lines on a road mean:
- A. Passing is allowed with caution
- B. Lane ends ahead
- C. No passing from either direction
- D. Passing allowed on the right only
Show answer
C. No passing from either direction — Double solid yellow lines mark the center of a two-way road where passing is too dangerous from either side. The double line means the sight distance is too short or traffic too heavy for any driver to safely pass.
Universal rule · checked against MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 3 — Markings — Pavement and Curb Markings · verified 2026-08-01
What is the minimum following distance in good weather?
- A. 3 seconds
- B. 2 seconds
- C. 5 seconds
- D. 1 second
Show answer
A. 3 seconds — The three-second rule helps ensure adequate space to stop safely. Increase this in poor conditions.
Universal rule · checked against NHTSA Safe Driving — Tailgating and Following Distance · verified 2026-05-17
If you miss your exit on a highway:
- A. Back up on the shoulder
- B. Make a U-turn across the median
- C. Continue to the next exit
- D. Stop and check your GPS
Show answer
C. Continue to the next exit — Never back up or make illegal maneuvers on a highway. Continue to the next exit and reroute safely.
Universal rule · checked against NHTSA Ten Tips for Safe Driving — Safe Driving Basics · verified 2026-08-01
Frequently asked questions
Is the DMV written test the same as the permit test?
Yes — "written test," "knowledge test," and "permit test" all refer to the same multiple-choice exam on road rules and signs. The name varies by state and by who's talking; the format is the same idea everywhere.
How many questions are on the DMV written test?
Practice settings vary by state. This site uses around 25 questions with a 80% study target; confirm the official question count and threshold with your state agency.
Can I take the DMV written test online?
It depends on the state. Most states require the knowledge test in person at a licensing office; some offer an online option, usually with age or supervision restrictions. Check your state licensing agency's site for current rules.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake it — waiting periods and retest fees vary by state, so check your state's rules. The readiness dashboard on this page tracks whether you're consistently scoring above your state's passing bar before you go in.
Is this written test practice really free?
Yes. Every practice test on this page and everything in the DMV Prep app is free — no ads, no paywall, no account.
