About the Connecticut DMV written test
The Connecticut knowledge test (often searched as the Connecticut permit test) checks that new drivers understand road signs, traffic laws and safe driving habits before getting a learner's permit. The questions come from the official Connecticut driver handbook published by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles.
Connecticut applicants take a vision test and a 25-question knowledge test based on the Connecticut Driver's Manual, and you need 20 correct answers to pass. Teens face a 120- or 180-day permit period, 40 hours of practice and passenger and curfew limits.
Connecticut permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- You can apply for a learner's permit at 16.
- Questions on the real test
- 25
- Passing score
- You need 20 correct answers out of 25 to pass the knowledge test.
- Vision screening
- You must have at least 20/40 vision, with or without glasses or contact lenses.
- Permit fee
- $40 testing fee plus $19 for the learner's permit.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08% for drivers 21+; 0.02% for drivers under 21.
- Seat belt law
- Seat belt violations can be fined $75 each; drivers must see that passengers ages 7 to 16 are buckled.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles before you test.
What Connecticut drivers should know
- Teen curfew: no driving 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for 16- and 17-year-olds, with exceptions.
- New teen drivers generally carry no passengers for six months, then only immediate family until month 12.
- Give bicyclists at least 3 feet when passing; fines for failing to yield to a bicyclist are doubled.
- Stop at least 10 feet from an ice cream truck with signals on, then proceed at 5 mph or less.
- Work zone violations can cost up to $1,000.
Topics covered in our Connecticut practice tests
- Road signs and signals: shapes, colors, pavement markings and traffic lights.
- Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed, turns, passing, parking and school zones.
- Safe driving: following distance, night and weather driving, distractions and emergencies.
- Alcohol and drugs: impaired driving, BAC and penalties.
- Sharing the road: pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and large trucks.
How to pass the Connecticut permit test
- Read the official Connecticut driver handbook, paying close attention to numbers (distances, speeds, BAC limits).
- Take Practice Test 1 in study mode and read every explanation.
- Work through Tests 2 to 5, then the topic tests for your weakest areas.
- Use the Exam Simulator and aim for 80% or higher on several attempts in a row.
- Bring the documents your state requires and book your test with the DMV.