Tennessee permit test FAQ 2026: how many questions, pass mark, cost
Tennessee permit test questions, answered with facts from TDOSHS.
The Tennessee Driver License Knowledge Test (Class PD learner permit) has 30 questions (traffic signs and signals, safe driving principles, rules of the road and drugs and alcohol); you need 80% to pass, per TDOSHS; questions come from the official Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (information current 'as of July 1, 2022').
Practice format (official): Our practice tests use the official format — 30 questions, 24 of 30 (80%) to pass, 60 minutes on the timer.
The Tennessee driver license knowledge test in brief
How many questions are on the Tennessee permit test?
The Tennessee driver license knowledge test has 30 questions (traffic signs and signals, safe driving principles, rules of the road and drugs and alcohol), per TDOSHS.
What is the pass mark for the Tennessee permit test?
You need 80% to pass, per TDOSHS.
Is the Tennessee permit test hard?
You need 24 of 30 (80%) to pass, so in the official 30-question format you can get at most 6 wrong. The best preparation is to study the official Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (information current 'as of July 1, 2022') and take practice tests until you pass them comfortably.
How much does the Tennessee permit test cost?
$10.50 — PD Learner Permit (under 18), per TDOSHS.
Is there a free Tennessee permit practice test for 2026?
Yes. This site has 2 free Tennessee driver license knowledge test practice tests for 2026, each with 30 questions and the official pass mark of 24 of 30 (80%), plus a free road-sign quiz.
Time limit, retakes, age and ID
How long is the Tennessee permit test?
No time limit is published for the in-person test; 60 minutes is the official limit for the online test.
Can I retake the Tennessee permit test if I fail?
Online test: 'Applicants who fail must wait 24 hours before retesting.' Manual: 'Mandatory 1-day waiting period is required after failing the knowledge test'; 'No test may be repeated on the same day.' 'Applicants may take the online knowledge test a maximum of two (2) times.' No cap stated for in-person tests. Cheating: automatic failure and no re-attempt for 30 days (manual). $2 application fee each time a test is failed.
How old do you have to be to take the Tennessee permit test?
The minimum age is 15, per TDOSHS.
What do I need to bring to the Tennessee permit test?
Online application with optional document pre-approval in e-Services; originals or certified copies of one proof of US citizenship or legal presence, proof of Social Security number, two proofs of Tennessee residency, name-change documents if needed. Under 18: parent or legal guardian present to sign the Minor/Teenage Affidavit and financial responsibility form, proof of guardianship if last names differ, proof of school attendance (form SF 1010). Vision screening at a Driver Services Center.
Which handbook is the Tennessee permit test based on?
The official Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual (information current 'as of July 1, 2022'). You can read it on the official site.
Official source: Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security (TDOSHS), Driver Services Division. Handbook: Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual.
Start the free Tennessee driver license knowledge test practice test 1 · Road-sign quiz
Last updated October 13, 2026.