About the Massachusetts RMV written test
The Massachusetts knowledge test (often searched as the Massachusetts permit test or Massachusetts DMV 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 Massachusetts driver handbook published by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.
Massachusetts applicants take a 25-question multiple-choice learner's permit exam based on the RMV Driver's Manual, and you must answer 18 correctly within 25 minutes. Applicants must be at least 16, and teens face extra Junior Operator License rules.
Massachusetts permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- You can apply for a Class D learner's permit at 16.
- Questions on the real test
- 25
- Passing score
- You need 18 correct answers out of 25 within 25 minutes to pass the permit exam.
- Vision screening
- A full license requires at least 20/40 corrected vision in the better eye and 120 degrees of horizontal peripheral vision.
- Permit fee
- $30 for the learner's permit exam.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08% for drivers 21+; 0.02% for drivers under 21.
- Seat belt law
- Drivers and passengers 16+ must buckle up ($25 fine); the driver is fined $25 for each unbelted passenger aged 12 to 15.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles before you test.
What Massachusetts drivers should know
- Hands-free only: hand-held phone fines are $100, $250, then $500.
- Teens under 18 may not use any mobile device while driving, except to report an emergency.
- Junior Operators may not drive 12:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. without a parent or guardian.
- Pass bicyclists with at least 4 feet of clearance.
- Stay at least 100 feet behind a school bus; stop for flashing red lights.
Topics covered in our Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts permit test
- Read the official Massachusetts 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 RMV.