The number of permit tests depends on your state and whether you pass on your first attempt
Most states require you to pass one written permit test to get your learner's permit. That test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving rules specific to your state. However, if you don't pass the first time, you'll take it again — and some states let you retake it the same day, while others make you wait a few days or weeks between attempts.
After you hold your permit for the required waiting period (usually 6 months to a year, depending on your state), you'll take a second test to get your driver's license. This is often called the road test or driving test, and it's administered by an examiner who watches you drive. Some states combine a short written test with the road test; others skip the written portion entirely at the license stage.
The total number of tests you take is really about how many times you need to retake them. One person might take two tests total (permit written, then license road test). Another might take four or five if they don't pass on the first or second attempt.
Key Takeaways
- You will take at least one written test for your learner's permit and one road test for your driver's license, for a minimum of two tests.
- If you don't pass either test on your first attempt, you'll retake it — the number of retakes depends on how many times you need to pass.
- Some states allow same-day retakes for the written permit test; others require you to wait several days or weeks before trying again.
- A few states include a written test at the license stage in addition to the road test, which would add a third test to your total.
- Your state's DMV website lists the exact number of tests required and the rules for retaking them if you don't pass.
What happens during the written permit test
The written permit test is usually a multiple-choice exam with 30 to 50 questions, depending on your state. You answer questions about traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, and what to do in emergencies. Most states require you to score 70 to 80 percent to pass, though this varies.
You take this test at your local DMV office or an approved testing location. The test is administered on a computer at most locations now, though some still use paper. You'll get your score when ready or within a few minutes. If you pass, you walk out with your learner's permit that day. If you don't pass, you'll be told when you can retake it.
What happens during the road test for your license
The road test is a practical driving test where a state examiner sits in your car while you drive. The test usually lasts 20 to 40 minutes and covers basic driving skills: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, merging, and following traffic laws. The examiner watches for safe habits and checks whether you can handle the vehicle under normal conditions.
You must bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, and a vehicle that's registered and insured. Some states require a parent or guardian to be present if you're under 18. You'll drive a set route that the examiner chooses, and you'll be scored on your performance. If you pass, you get your driver's license. If you don't, you'll be told how many days you must wait before retaking it.
How retakes work in most states
If you fail the written permit test, most states let you retake it within a few days to a few weeks. Some states allow you to retake it the same day; others require a waiting period of 1 to 7 days. A few states make you wait longer — up to 30 days in some cases. Check your state's DMV website for the exact waiting period.
For the road test, the waiting period is usually longer. Most states require you to wait at least 7 to 14 days before retaking it, though some allow retakes within a few days. There's typically no limit on how many times you can retake either test, but each attempt usually costs a fee.
Whether you need additional tests
A small number of states require a third test: a written test at the license stage, in addition to the road test. This written test is usually shorter than the permit test and focuses on rules you may have forgotten or new laws. Most states skip this and only require the road test to get your license.
Some states also offer optional tests. For example, a few states let you take a written test to waive part of the road test if you score very high. Others offer a motorcycle endorsement test if you want to ride a motorcycle. These are not required for a basic driver's license.
How to find out what your state requires
Your state's DMV website lists exactly how many tests you need to take and what each one covers. Search for "[your state] DMV permit test" or "[your state] DMV road test" to find the official information. The website will also tell you the passing score, the waiting period between retakes, and the fee for each test.
You can also call your local DMV office or visit in person. Staff can tell you the current testing schedule, how long the wait is to schedule a road test, and whether you need to bring anything besides your permit and ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the permit test and road test on the same day?
No. You must hold your learner's permit for a waiting period — usually 6 months to a year — before you can take the road test. This gives you time to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. A few states have shorter waiting periods of 3 to 6 months, but none let you skip it entirely.
What if I fail the road test multiple times?
Most states have no limit on how many times you can retake the road test. You'll pay the test fee each time, and you'll have to wait the required number of days between attempts. Some states do set a limit — for example, requiring you to wait 30 days after your third failure — but this is uncommon.
Do I have to retake the written test if I pass the road test?
No. Once you pass the written permit test, you don't retake it to get your license. You only retake the written test if you failed it the first time. The road test is a separate test that you take after your permit waiting period ends.
Is the permit test harder than the road test?
They test different skills. The permit test is about memorizing rules and signs — you can study for it. The road test is about actually driving safely — it depends on your practice and comfort behind the wheel. Most people find the road test more stressful because it's live and unpredictable, but that doesn't make it objectively harder.
What if I move to a different state after getting my permit?
Most states recognize learner's permits from other states, so you can usually continue practicing and take your road test in your new state. However, some states require you to retake the written permit test or take an additional test. Contact your new state's DMV to find out what they require before you move.