About the Michigan SOS written test
The Michigan knowledge test (often searched as the Michigan permit test or Michigan 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 Michigan driver handbook published by the Michigan Secretary of State.
Michigan teens learn through graduated licensing: after driver education Segment 1 and a vision test, you can get a Level 1 learner's license at 14 years 9 months. The state handbook is called What Every Driver Must Know.
Michigan permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- You can get a Level 1 learner's license at 14 years and 9 months, after enrolling in Segment 1 driver education.
- Passing score
- The Segment 1 and Segment 2 driver education exams each require a score of at least 70%.
- Vision screening
- A vision test is required at the Secretary of State office when you apply for the Level 1 license.
- Permit fee
- $25 for the Level 1 license.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08% for drivers 21+; 0.02% for drivers under 21; enhanced penalties at 0.17% or higher.
- Seat belt law
- Front-seat occupants must buckle up, and all passengers under 16 must buckle up in every seat.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the Michigan Secretary of State before you test.
What Michigan drivers should know
- Level 2 curfew is 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. with exceptions; only one passenger under 21.
- At least 50 supervised hours, including 10 at night, before the skills test.
- Freeways: 70 mph maximum, 55 mph minimum unless posted.
- Stop at least 20 feet from a school bus with flashing red lights.
- Children under 8 or under 4 feet 9 inches need a car or booster seat.
Topics covered in our Michigan 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 Michigan permit test
- Read the official Michigan 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 SOS.