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New York DMV Practice Test 2026

The New York written knowledge test has 20 questions and requires a 70% score to pass. Use these free practice tests to study the rules of the road, traffic signs, and state-specific laws before your appointment.

Updated April 2026

How we help you prepare

373 practice questions to help you master the New York DMV Test, 4 practice tests, 1 exam simulation

New York requirement to pass

20 questions on the real test, 70% passing score (14 of 20), no time limit

Study by Category is a Pro Feature

Master each topic before your New York written test. 4 categories are free to start.

Practice Runs

Complete practice runs to test your knowledge. Runs 1-2 are free.

Test 1: Rules of the Road

Right-of-way, turns, intersections, passing, lane changes

25 questions~15 min
Start Practicing

Test 2: Road Signs & Signals

Regulatory signs, warning signs, traffic signals, road markings

25 questions~15 min
Start Practicing

Test 3: Laws, Safety & Impairment

Pro

DUI/DWI, distracted driving, vehicle safety, general knowledge

25 questions~15 min
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Test 4: Defensive & Safe Driving

Pro

Defensive driving, adverse weather, sharing the road, safety

25 questions~15 min
Unlock

The New York written knowledge test has 20 multiple-choice questions. You need 14 correct answers (70%) to pass. There is no time limit. Tests are administered by the DMV. Questions cover road signs, traffic laws, and New York-specific rules. Read how DMV IQ prepares you for test day.

About the Written Test

New York's written knowledge test is administered by the Department of Motor Vehicles and is required for anyone applying for a learner permit. The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions drawn from the New York State Driver's Manual, and you need at least 14 correct answers (70%) to pass. However, you must also correctly answer at least 2 of the 4 road sign questions.

Where and How to Take It

The test is taken in person at any New York State DMV office. Most offices require a reservation, which can be made online at dmv.ny.gov. The test is computer-based and available in 20 languages — one of the most multilingual DMV systems in the country.

What to Bring

New York uses a point system for identification. You need documents totaling at least 6 points — for example, a US passport (4 points) plus a Social Security card (2 points). You'll also need proof of New York residency. The application fee varies by age but is typically around $12.50 for the permit portion, with the total license fee being significantly more ($80-$93 depending on age and county).

Test Day

After checking in with your reservation and submitting your ID documents, you'll be directed to a computer terminal. The 20-question test covers road rules, traffic signs, right-of-way, speed limits, alcohol/drug laws, and safe driving practices. There is no time limit. Results are shown immediately on screen.

If You Don't Pass

If you score below 70% or miss more than 2 of the 4 sign questions, you can retake the test. You'll need to pay the application fee again and may retake as early as the next business day.

New York-Specific Details

New York has unique licensing rules for drivers under 18. In New York City and parts of Long Island, junior license holders face additional restrictions including no unsupervised driving in NYC without completing a driver education course. The 6-point ID system is more complex than most states.

Learner Permit vs. Full License

After passing the written test, you receive a learner permit valid for 5 years. You must hold it for at least 6 months, complete a 5-hour pre-licensing course (or a state-approved driver education course), and pass a road test before receiving a full Class D license.

Try It Yourself

Get a taste of the study experience. Answer a real question or preview the timed exam simulator.

Sample Flash Card

road rules

In New York State, how many feet must you park away from a fire hydrant?

Try all 4 free practice runs

Start Practicing
25:00
Exam Simulator
1 / 20

When approaching a school zone during school hours, the maximum speed limit in New York is:

A15 mph
B20 mph
C25 mph
D30 mph

Exam Simulator

Timed, 20-question test that mirrors the real New York DMV exam. 70% to pass.

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20 questions70% to passTimed
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~0%Sample Score

Know exactly when you’re ready to pass the New York DMV test

The IQ Readiness Score™ measures six dimensions of test readiness and estimates your probability of passing the New York exam.

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Weak topic recoveryQuestions you miss come back automatically until you’ve truly learned them.

Frequently Asked Questions

The New York permit test has 20 multiple-choice questions. You need at least 14 correct (70%) to pass, and you must get at least 2 of the 4 road sign questions right.
You need 70% overall (14 out of 20) and must correctly answer at least 2 of the 4 road sign questions. Failing either requirement means you don't pass.
There is no limit on retake attempts. You can retake the test the next business day after failing. The application fee must be paid again for each attempt.
If you fail, you can retake the test the next business day. You'll need to pay the application fee again. Focus on the Driver's Manual, especially road signs — you need at least 2 of 4 sign questions correct.
The total cost varies by age, ranging from about $80 to $93 for the full license application. This includes the permit fee, license document fee, and MCTD fee for NYC metro area residents.
New York DMV Practice Test 2026 - Free NY Permit Test | DMV IQ