The permit test in New York costs $10 for a written exam and $10 for a road test, for a total of $20 if you take both on the same day

New York charges a flat $10 fee each time you take the written permit test at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. The road test costs another $10. If you fail either test and need to retake it, you pay the $10 fee again for that specific test. There is no charge to obtain the permit itself — you only pay when you sit for the exam.

These fees have remained stable for several years. You pay in cash or by card at the DMV office where you test. If you are under 18, the rules are the same; age does not change the test cost.

Key Takeaways

  • The written permit test costs $10 each time you take it, whether it is your first attempt or a retake.
  • The road test costs $10 separately, and you pay again if you do not pass on your first try.
  • You can take both tests on the same day and pay $20 total, or space them out over weeks or months.
  • Payment is cash or card at the DMV office; there is no online payment option for test fees.

What the $10 written test covers

The written permit test checks your knowledge of New York traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 20 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 14 correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Russian, and others, at no extra cost.

You can retake the written test the same day if you fail, but you pay the $10 fee again. Most people who fail can schedule another attempt within a few days at the same DMV office. There is no waiting period between attempts, though some offices may have limited appointment slots.

What the $10 road test covers

The road test costs $10 and lasts about 20 minutes. A DMV examiner rides with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you borrow) and watches you perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. The test takes place on public roads in the area around the DMV office.

If you fail the road test, you must wait at least two weeks before retaking it. Each retake costs another $10. You do not need to retake the written test unless your permit has expired since you passed it.

When you pay and how to prepare

You pay the test fee when you arrive at the DMV office for your appointment. Bring cash or a debit or credit card. The DMV does not accept checks or online payments for test fees. Arrive early — most offices require you to be there 15 minutes before your scheduled time, or they may cancel your appointment.

Before you pay, make sure you have your documents in order. For the written test, you need a valid form of ID and proof of your Social Security number. For the road test, you need your permit, a valid ID, and a vehicle that is registered and insured. If your documents are incomplete, the DMV will not let you test, and you will not get a refund of your fee.

Retake costs and limits

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test, but each attempt costs $10. Some people take it three or four times before passing. You can retake it as soon as the next day if you want to, though scheduling an appointment that quickly is not always possible.

For the road test, you can retake it as many times as needed, but you must wait at least two weeks between attempts. Each road test costs $10. If you fail three times, some DMV offices may require you to take a defensive driving course before your next attempt, though this is not a statewide rule — it depends on the office.

Reduced or waived fees

New York does not offer a reduced or free permit test fee based on income. The $10 fee applies to everyone. However, if the DMV cancels your appointment due to office closure or a system error on their end, they will reschedule you at no additional charge.

If you are a member of the military or a veteran, you may be able to use a military ID as your form of identification, but this does not reduce the test fee. Some employers offer paid time off for testing, but that is between you and your employer — it does not change what the DMV charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I fail the test?

No. The $10 fee is non-refundable whether you pass or fail. If you fail, you pay another $10 to retake it. The only exception is if the DMV cancels the appointment on their end due to office closure or a technical problem.

Do I have to take both tests on the same day?

No. You can take the written test first, get your permit, and schedule the road test weeks or months later. Many people take the written test, practice driving for several weeks, and then book the road test. You only pay when you actually sit for each test.

What if I lose my permit before I take the road test?

You will need to get a replacement permit, which costs $20. You do not have to retake the written test — the DMV will issue a new permit based on your passing score. Then you pay the $10 road test fee when you are ready to test.

Are there online or at-home test options?

No. New York requires both the written and road tests to be taken in person at a DMV office. You cannot take either test online or at home. You must schedule an appointment and appear at the office on the date and time assigned.

What happens if I do not show up for my test appointment?

If you miss your appointment without canceling, you lose your $10 fee and your appointment slot. You will need to schedule a new appointment and pay the $10 fee again. It is best to cancel at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot make it.