New York permit test FAQ 2026: how many questions, pass mark, cost
New York permit test questions, answered with facts from NYS DMV.
The New York written test (Class D learner permit knowledge test) has 20 questions; you need 14 of 20 to pass, per NYS DMV; questions come from the official New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21) (no MV-21 revision date printed).
Practice format (official): Our practice tests use the official format — 20 questions (4 road signs + 16 rules of the road), 14 of 20 (2 of 4 road signs and 12 of 16 rules of the road) to pass, untimed.
The New York written test in brief
How many questions are on the New York permit test?
The New York written test has 20 questions, per NYS DMV.
What is the pass mark for the New York permit test?
You need 14 of 20 to pass, per NYS DMV.
Is the New York permit test hard?
You need 14 of 20 (2 of 4 road signs and 12 of 16 rules of the road) to pass, so in the official 20-question format you can get at most 6 wrong overall, and each section has its own mark. The best preparation is to study the official New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21) (no MV-21 revision date printed) and take practice tests until you pass them comfortably.
How much does the New York permit test cost?
$80 — Class D/DJ learner permit and license fee, applicant aged 16 to 16½, outside the MCTD, per NYS DMV.
Is there a free New York permit practice test for 2026?
Yes. This site has 2 free New York written test practice tests for 2026, each with 20 questions and the official pass mark of 14 of 20 (2 of 4 road signs and 12 of 16 rules of the road), plus a free road-sign quiz.
Time limit, retakes, age and ID
How long is the New York permit test?
NYS DMV does not publish a time limit for the New York written test.
Can I retake the New York permit test if I fail?
No waiting period for the in-office test is stated on the pages read. OKTA (school-based online test): 'Students who fail the test can take it again online as many times as the school allows.' No attempt cap stated. After passing the online permit test, an office visit within the first 3 business days means you 'will be required to re-take and pass your permit test in the office'.
How old do you have to be to take the New York permit test?
The minimum age is 16, per NYS DMV.
What do I need to bring to the New York permit test?
Application for a Permit (MV-44); proofs of identity, age and residence totalling six points or more (list in ID-44), at least one with your signature; Social Security number. Parent/guardian completes MV-45 where needed and must attend. Vision test (20/40 in at least one eye) at the office.
Which handbook is the New York permit test based on?
The official New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21) (no MV-21 revision date printed). You can read it on the official site.
Official source: New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYS DMV). Handbook: New York State Driver's Manual (MV-21).
Start the free New York written test practice test 1 · Road-sign quiz
Last updated October 13, 2026.