The number of permit tests depends on your state and what you're testing for

Most states require one written permit test to get your learner's permit, and then one road test (also called a driving test or skills test) to get your license. Some states add a third test — a vision or hearing screening — but that's usually quick and happens at the same appointment. A few states have two written tests: one for the permit and a separate one before the road test. The exact number and what each test covers varies by state, so checking your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website tells you what to expect in your specific location.

The written permit test is almost always multiple choice and covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The road test is where an examiner watches you drive and grades how you handle the car, follow instructions, and respond to traffic. Neither test is pass-once-and-done — if you don't pass, you can retake it, usually after waiting a few days or paying a retest fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states have one written permit test and one road test, though some states add a vision screening or a second written test.
  • The written test covers traffic laws and road signs and is usually multiple choice with 30 to 50 questions.
  • The road test is a practical driving exam where an examiner grades your ability to control the vehicle and follow traffic rules.
  • If you don't pass either test, you can retake it after a waiting period, though some states charge a retest fee.
  • Your state's DMV website lists exactly how many tests you need and what each one covers.

What the written permit test includes

The written test for your learner's permit covers state traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. Most states ask 30 to 50 multiple-choice questions, and you usually need to get 70 to 80 percent correct to pass — the exact passing score varies by state. The test is designed to make sure you understand the rules before you get behind the wheel with a permit.

You take this test at your local DMV office or an authorized testing location. Most states let you take it on a computer at the testing center, though some still use paper tests. You'll need to bring a valid ID and proof of residency, and you may need to pay a fee — usually between $5 and $20, depending on your state.

What the road test measures

The road test is a 15- to 30-minute drive with a state examiner in the car. The examiner watches how you start the car, check mirrors, use turn signals, follow speed limits, handle turns and stops, and respond to other traffic. They're grading whether you can control the vehicle safely and follow the rules of the road, not whether you drive perfectly.

You'll drive on a mix of roads — usually residential streets, some busier roads, and sometimes a highway or parking lot maneuvers. The examiner will ask you to do specific things like parallel park, make a three-point turn, or back up. If you make a serious mistake — like running a red light or hitting something — you fail. Minor mistakes like hesitating too long or being slightly off center don't automatically fail you, but they count against your score.

States with two written tests

A small number of states require you to pass a second written test after you've had your permit for a certain amount of time and before you take the road test. This second test usually covers the same material as the first one but may include more questions or focus on specific topics like distracted driving or impaired driving.

States that do this want to make sure you've had time to study and practice with your permit before you test on the road. If your state is one of them, your DMV will tell you when you're may be able to access to take the second written test — usually after you've held your permit for 30 days or longer. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to learn about this applies to you.

Vision and hearing screenings

Many states require a vision test as part of the permit or license process. This is usually a straightforward eye chart test done at the DMV office, and it takes just a few minutes. Some states also check your hearing, though this is less common. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — the test measures your vision with any correction you normally use.

If you don't pass the vision screening, you may be required to get glasses or contacts and come back for another screening, or your license may have a restriction that says you must wear corrective lenses while driving. Hearing requirements vary widely by state, so ask your DMV what they test for.

How many times you can retake a test

If you don't pass the written permit test, you can retake it. Most states let you retake it the same day or after a waiting period of a few days to a week. Some states charge a retest fee — usually $5 to $15 — each time you retake the written test. There's usually no limit to how many times you can retake it, though a few states do cap the number of attempts per year.

For the road test, the rules are similar. You can retake it after waiting a set number of days, and some states charge a retest fee. If you fail the road test, you'll need to schedule another appointment, which might mean waiting weeks depending on how busy your local DMV is. Some states let you retake the road test the next day; others require you to wait 7 to 14 days.

How to find out what your state requires

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website has the exact number of tests you need, what each test covers, the passing score, and the fee for each test. Search "[your state] DMV permit test" or "[your state] DMV road test" to find the official information. You can also call your local DMV office or visit in person — staff there can tell you how many tests to expect and what to bring.

Some states also offer practice tests online, either on the official DMV website or through third-party sites. Taking practice tests before you go in helps you understand what to expect and what material you need to study. Many people take the practice test multiple times to build confidence before the real test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pass the written test before I take the road test?

Yes, in every state. You need a valid learner's permit (which you get after passing the written test) before you can take the road test. Some states also require you to hold the permit for a minimum amount of time — often 30 days or longer — before you're allowed to schedule the road test.

Can I take the permit test online from home?

Most states require you to take the written permit test in person at a DMV office or authorized testing location. A few states have started offering remote testing, but this is still uncommon. Check your state's DMV website to see if remote testing is an option where you live.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake it after waiting the number of days your state requires — usually 7 to 14 days. You'll need to schedule another appointment and pay the road test fee again. Your learner's permit stays valid while you're waiting to retake the test, so you can keep practicing with a licensed driver.

Is the vision test the same as an eye exam?

No. The DMV vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. It's not a full eye exam like you'd get at an optometrist's office. If the DMV test shows you need glasses or contacts, you should see an eye doctor for a full exam to get the right prescription.

How long do I have to wait between attempts if I fail?

For the written permit test, most states let you retake it within a few days to a week. For the road test, the waiting period is usually 7 to 14 days. Some states have no waiting period for the written test, so you could retake it the same day. Check your state's DMV rules for the exact timeline.