About the Tennessee DOS written test
The Tennessee knowledge test (often searched as the Tennessee permit test or Tennessee 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 Tennessee driver handbook published by the Tennessee Department of Safety.
Tennessee applicants take a Class D knowledge test and a vision screening to get a learner permit, which can be earned at 15 as the first step of graduated licensing. Teens ages 15 to 17 can take a proctored version of the knowledge test online.
Tennessee permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- You can get a learner permit at 15 after passing the knowledge and vision tests; applicants over 18 take the knowledge test without a required permit period.
- Questions on the real test
- 30
- Passing score
- The online teen knowledge permit test requires 80% to pass, with a 60-minute time limit.
- Vision screening
- A standard vision screening is required.
- Adult BAC limit
- A BAC of 0.08% is the presumed level of impairment.
- Seat belt law
- Front-seat occupants must buckle up, and back-seat passengers under 17 must as well.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the Tennessee Department of Safety before you test.
What Tennessee drivers should know
- Learner permit holders may not drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- Level 2 teens may carry one passenger and may not drive from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Teens need 50 certified practice hours, 10 of them at night.
- Move Over violations can bring a fine up to $500.
- Speeding in a construction zone carries at least a $250 fine.
Topics covered in our Tennessee 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 Tennessee permit test
- Read the official Tennessee 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 DOS.