About the New York DMV written test
The New York knowledge test (often searched as the New York 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 New York driver handbook published by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.
New York applicants take a written permit test based on the official New York State Driver's Manual; it has 20 questions and you must answer at least 14 correctly, including at least 2 of the 4 road sign questions. Applicants must also meet the DMV vision standard and complete supervised practice before the road test.
New York permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- New York residents 16 and older can apply for a learner permit.
- Questions on the real test
- 20
- Passing score
- You must answer at least 14 of 20 questions correctly, including at least 2 of the 4 road sign questions.
- Vision screening
- At least 20/40 vision in one eye, with or without correction.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08% is DWI and 0.18% is Aggravated DWI; for drivers under 21, any measurable BAC from 0.02% to 0.07% is a zero tolerance violation.
- Seat belt law
- Everyone must buckle up; the driver is responsible for passengers under 16, with a fine of $25 to $100 and 3 points per violation.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles before you test.
What New York drivers should know
- Signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes.
- Stop at least 20 feet from a school bus with flashing red lights, even on a divided highway.
- Stop at least 15 feet from railroad tracks when lights flash, gates are down or a bell is ringing.
- Learner permit holders need a supervisor at least 21 years old in the front seat.
- The default speed limit is 55 mph where none is posted, and 25 mph in New York City.
Topics covered in our New York 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 New York permit test
- Read the official New York 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.