Minnesota's permit test has 40 questions, and you need to answer at least 32 correctly to pass

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety administers a single written permit test with 40 multiple-choice questions. Each question has four answer choices. You must score at least 80 percent — which means 32 correct answers — to pass and move forward to the road test.

The test covers information from the Minnesota Driver's Manual, which is free to read from the state's website or available in print at any Driver and Vehicle Services office. The questions focus on traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergency situations.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota's permit test contains exactly 40 multiple-choice questions with four options each.
  • You must answer at least 32 questions correctly (80 percent) to pass the test.
  • The test covers only material from the official Minnesota Driver's Manual, so studying that manual is your main preparation tool.
  • You have a set amount of time to complete the test, though the exact time limit varies slightly depending on whether you need extra time accommodations.
  • If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake the test, but there may be a waiting period between attempts.

What the test covers

The 40 questions draw from five main areas of the Minnesota Driver's Manual: traffic laws and regulations, road signs and markings, safe driving practices, vehicle control and handling, and what to do in emergencies or unusual situations. Questions are not weighted equally — some topics appear more frequently than others, but the state does not publish exactly which topics get more questions.

The test does not include questions about vehicle maintenance, insurance, or registration procedures. It focuses entirely on knowledge you need to drive safely and legally on Minnesota roads. Many questions ask you to interpret a specific traffic situation and choose the safest or most legal response.

How much time you get

You have up to one hour to complete the 40-question test. Most people finish in 20 to 40 minutes, but the full hour is available if you need it. If you have a documented disability or learning difference, you may request extra time or other accommodations when you schedule your test appointment.

You cannot skip questions and come back to them — you answer each question in order before moving to the next one. Once you submit your answer, you cannot change it.

Where to take the test

You take the permit test at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. Minnesota has DVS locations in most counties. You must schedule an appointment in advance — you cannot walk in and take the test the same day. You can schedule online through the state's website, by phone, or in person at any DVS office.

When you arrive for your test, bring your current ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Minnesota address. The staff will verify your identity and check that you meet the age requirements for a permit in your category (usually 15 years old for a learner's permit).

What happens if you fail

If you score below 32 correct answers, you do not pass. You will be told your score when ready after the test. Most DVS offices allow you to retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment within a few days, though policies vary by location.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but each attempt costs a fee. The fee is the same whether it is your first attempt or your fifth. Some people study the manual more thoroughly between attempts; others take a practice test online to identify weak areas before returning.

How to prepare

The Minnesota Driver's Manual is the official source for everything on the test. You can read it as a PDF from the state DVS website or pick up a printed copy at any DVS office. Reading through the manual once gives you a foundation, but most people benefit from reading it twice — once to learn the material and once to review before the test.

Many people use online practice tests to get familiar with the question format and identify topics they need to study more. Practice tests show you the kinds of questions the real test asks, though they are not the exact questions you will see. Some practice tests are free; others charge a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. You cannot bring any materials into the testing room except your ID and required documents. You cannot use your phone, notes, the Driver's Manual, or any other reference material during the test. The DVS staff will collect any items you bring and return them after you finish.

What if I fail the test multiple times?

There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Each attempt costs a fee. If you fail multiple times, consider spending more time with the Driver's Manual or using a practice test to identify which topics are giving you trouble. Some DVS offices offer brief study sessions or can recommend resources.

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

Yes. You must pass the permit test first. Once you pass, you receive a learner's permit, which allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult. After practicing and meeting any other requirements (like holding the permit for a certain length of time), you can schedule your road test.

Is the test the same if I am renewing my permit or getting my first one?

The written test is the same for all permit applicants. However, if you already hold a valid driver's license from another state and are moving to Minnesota, you may not need to take the written test — check with your local DVS office about reciprocity rules.

What if I need the test in a language other than English?

Minnesota offers the permit test in several languages besides English. When you schedule your appointment, tell the DVS staff which language you need. Availability varies by location, so call ahead to confirm your local office offers testing in your language.