Where you can take the written test online depends on your state
Not every state offers online written testing for a driver's license. As of now, roughly a dozen states allow some form of remote written exam, but the rules, timing, and what you need to do afterward vary significantly. Some states let you complete the entire written test at home; others require you to pass it online but still visit a DMV office to verify your identity and take a road test.
The states currently offering online written tests include Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, and Tennessee, though this list changes and availability sometimes depends on whether you are renewing, upgrading your license class, or obtaining one for the first time. Before you search for an online option, check your state's DMV website directly — it will tell you whether online testing is open, what you need to do before you start, and what happens after you pass.
If your state does not offer online testing, you will need to visit a DMV office or an authorized testing location in person. Some states contract with third-party testing centers (often called "third-party examiners") that can administer the written exam outside the DMV, though you still go to a physical location.
Key Takeaways
- Only about a dozen states allow you to take the written driver's license test online, and rules differ by state — check your DMV website to confirm your state offers it.
- Most states that offer online testing still require you to visit a DMV office in person for identity verification and the road test, even if you pass the written exam at home.
- You will typically need a valid email address, a computer or tablet with a camera and microphone, and a government-issued ID to take the test remotely.
- Online written tests usually have the same passing score and question types as in-person exams, but the proctoring method (how the test is monitored) varies by state.
- If your state does not offer online testing, you can often schedule an in-person written exam through your state DMV's website or by calling their office.
What you need to have ready before you start
Most states that offer online written tests require you to have a computer or tablet with a working camera, microphone, and stable internet connection. The camera and microphone are used for proctoring — a proctor (a real person or automated system) watches you take the test to prevent cheating. You cannot use your phone as your testing device in most cases, even though it has a camera, because the screen is too small and the test platform may not work properly on mobile browsers.
You will also need a government-issued photo ID — typically a passport, state ID card, or military ID. Some states accept a learner's permit if you are taking the test for the first time. Have this ID ready and visible on camera before the test begins. You should also have your Social Security number or driver's license number (if you are renewing) and your date of birth available, as you will need to enter these during registration.
Clear a quiet space where you can sit for 30 to 60 minutes without interruption. Most online proctoring systems require that you be alone in the room during the test. Remove any notes, phones, or other materials from your desk — the proctor will ask you to show your workspace before you begin. Some states also require you to show your hands and ears to confirm you are not wearing earbuds or hiding notes.
How the online test itself works
The written test content is the same whether you take it online or in person — you answer multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The number of questions and the passing score depend on your state and whether you are taking the test for a learner's permit, a regular driver's license, or a commercial license. Most written tests have between 40 and 50 questions, and you typically need to score 70 to 80 percent to pass.
When you log in to take the test, the proctoring system will ask you to verify your identity and show your workspace. This process takes 5 to 10 minutes. Once the proctor confirms everything is in order, the test begins. You will see one question at a time on your screen. Most states allow you to flag questions to review later, and you can usually go back and change your answers before you submit the test. The entire test usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on how quickly you work.
After you submit your answers, you will see your score when ready or within a few minutes. If you pass, you will receive a confirmation email with your test results and next steps — usually instructions on how to schedule your road test or when to visit the DMV to get your license printed. If you fail, most states let you retake the written test after a waiting period, which ranges from one day to one week depending on the state.
What happens after you pass the online written test
Passing the online written test does not mean you have a driver's license yet. In every state, you still need to pass a road test (also called a driving test) before you can get your full license. Some states let you schedule the road test when ready after passing the written exam; others require you to wait a few days or even a few weeks. Check your state's DMV website for the current wait time.
You will also need to visit a DMV office in person at some point to verify your identity, pay any fees, and receive your physical license card. Some states combine this step with the road test — you take the road test at a DMV office, pass it, and then get your license printed on the spot. Other states have you pick up your license at a separate appointment or have it mailed to you.
Before your road test, you will need to have a vehicle available, proof of insurance, and proof of vehicle registration. You will also need to bring your learner's permit (if you have one) and any documents the DMV asked you to bring when you registered for the written test. The specific documents vary by state, but commonly include proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and birth certificate or passport.
States that do not offer online written testing
If your state is not on the list of states offering online written tests, you will need to visit a DMV office or an authorized testing location in person. You can usually schedule an appointment through your state's DMV website. Many states now require you to book a time slot in advance rather than walk in, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic changed how DMVs operate.
Some states use third-party examiners — private testing centers licensed by the state to give the written test. These centers are often faster to get into than the DMV itself, and you can sometimes schedule an appointment with less notice. Search your state DMV website for "third-party examiner" or "authorized testing location" to find centers near you.
The written test itself is identical whether you take it at the DMV or at a third-party location. You will answer the same questions, need the same documents, and receive your results the same way. The main difference is convenience — third-party locations may have more available appointment times or shorter wait times.
Common issues and what to do if something goes wrong
Internet connection problems are the most common issue during online testing. If your connection drops during the test, most states' systems will pause the test and allow you to log back in within a set time window (usually 15 to 30 minutes). You will resume where you left off. If you cannot reconnect within that window, the test will be marked as incomplete, and you will need to retake it. To avoid this, use a wired internet connection (ethernet cable) if possible, rather than Wi-Fi, and close all other programs and browser tabs before you start.
Proctoring system errors — such as the camera not working or the proctor not being able to see you clearly — can also delay your test. If this happens, contact the testing platform's support line when ready. Most states have a phone number or chat option available during testing hours. The proctor or support team can troubleshoot the issue or reschedule your test at no extra cost if the problem cannot be fixed.
If you fail the test, you can retake it, but you will need to pay the test fee again in most states. The fee for a written test ranges from $5 to $30 depending on the state. Some states waive the retake fee if the failure was due to a system error on their end, so ask about this when you contact support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the online written test on my phone?
Most states do not allow phone testing because the screen is too small and the test platform may not work properly on mobile browsers. You need a computer or tablet with a camera and microphone. If you do not have access to a computer, contact your state DMV to ask about in-person testing options or whether they have a testing center with computers available.
What if I fail the online written test?
You can retake the test after a waiting period, which is usually one to seven days depending on your state. You will need to pay the test fee again. Most states let you schedule the retake through the same online system where you took the first test. Check your state DMV website for the exact waiting period and retake rules.
Do I still need to take a road test after passing the online written test?
Yes. The online written test only covers knowledge of traffic laws and road signs. You still need to pass a road test (driving test) to show you can safely operate a vehicle. The road test is always done in person with an examiner in a real vehicle.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass the online written test?
This depends on your state and whether you have already scheduled your road test. If you pass the written test and schedule the road test when ready, you could have your license within one to two weeks. If there is a long wait for road test appointments in your area, it could take several weeks or longer. Check your state DMV website for current wait times.
What if my state does not offer online testing?
You will need to visit a DMV office or an authorized third-party testing location in person. You can schedule an appointment through your state's DMV website. Some states also allow walk-in testing at certain locations, though appointment slots are usually faster. Call your local DMV office to ask about availability and what documents you need to bring.