California's permit test has 46 questions, and you need to answer at least 39 correctly to pass

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) written permit test, officially called the knowledge test, contains exactly 46 multiple-choice questions. You must score at least 39 correct answers — an 85 percent pass rate — to receive your permit. The test covers California traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and vehicle operation.

The questions come from the California Driver Handbook, the official study guide the DMV publishes. Every question on the test appears in that handbook or relates directly to information in it. You are allowed to miss no more than 7 questions.

Key Takeaways

  • The California permit test contains 46 questions total, and you must answer at least 39 correctly to pass.
  • All test questions come from material in the California Driver Handbook, which the DMV provides free online and in print.
  • You have one hour to complete the test, and the DMV allows you to retake it the same day if you fail.
  • The test is offered in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others, depending on your local DMV office.

What the 46 questions cover

The permit test questions are divided across several topic areas that reflect real driving situations. These include right-of-way rules, speed limits and safe speeds, parking regulations, traffic signs and signals, vehicle control, and impaired driving laws. Questions also cover seat belt use, child passenger safety, and what to do in emergencies.

The DMV does not publish the exact breakdown of how many questions cover each topic, but the handbook itself is organized by these same subjects. Studying each section of the handbook prepares you for the questions you will encounter. Some questions ask you to interpret a traffic sign; others describe a scenario and ask what you should do.

How the test is administered at the DMV

When you arrive at your local DMV office for your permit test appointment, you will check in and provide your identification. A DMV staff member will verify your information and direct you to a testing station. Most California DMV offices now use computer-based testing, where you answer questions on a screen and submit your answers when finished.

You have one hour to complete all 46 questions. This time limit is generous — most people finish in 20 to 40 minutes. If you finish early, you can review your answers before submitting. Once you submit, the computer scores your test when ready and tells you whether you passed or failed.

Retaking the test if you do not pass

If you score below 39 correct answers, you do not receive your permit that day. However, you can retake the test the same day at most DMV offices. You will need to pay the test fee again — currently $11 for the written test — and you will have another hour to answer the 46 questions.

The DMV allows you to retake the test as many times as needed, though each attempt requires a new fee. Between attempts, you should review the California Driver Handbook and focus on the areas where you struggled. Many people pass on their second or third try after studying the handbook more carefully.

Languages available for the permit test

California offers the permit test in multiple languages to serve its diverse population. English and Spanish are available at all DMV offices. Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), Vietnamese, Korean, Tagalog, Russian, Arabic, and Hmong are also available, though availability varies by location.

If you need the test in a language other than English or Spanish, contact your local DMV office in advance to confirm that language is offered there. Some smaller offices may not have all languages available, and you may need to travel to a larger office or schedule a special appointment.

How to prepare for all 46 questions

The California Driver Handbook is the primary study resource and covers everything tested. You can read it free online at the DMV website or pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. The handbook is organized by topic, so you can study one section at a time and understand how each concept applies to real driving.

Many people also use practice tests, which simulate the real test format and help you identify weak areas. Practice tests typically contain the same 46-question format and draw from the same handbook material. Taking practice tests under timed conditions — one hour — helps you get comfortable with the pace and format you will face on test day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the permit test online from home?

No. California requires you to take the written permit test in person at a DMV office. The DMV staff must verify your identity and supervise the testing process. You cannot complete the test remotely or at home.

Do all 46 questions appear on every permit test?

The test always contains 46 questions, but the specific questions vary. The DMV draws from a larger question bank, so different people taking the test on different days will see different questions. All questions, however, come from the California Driver Handbook.

What happens if I run out of time before answering all 46 questions?

If your hour is up and you have not submitted your answers, the computer will submit whatever you have completed. Unanswered questions are marked as incorrect. You should pace yourself to answer all 46 questions within the hour, which is usually not difficult since most people finish in 20 to 40 minutes.

Is the permit test the same as the driver's license test?

No. The permit test is the written knowledge test you take to get your learner's permit. The driver's license test includes both a written test and a behind-the-wheel driving test. The written portion for the license is different from the permit test and covers additional material.