West Virginia permit test FAQ 2026: how many questions, pass mark, cost

The West Virginia knowledge examination has 25 questions (basic knowledge, traffic rules, regulations, signs and markings), per WV DMV.

You need 19 of 25 to pass, per WV DMV.

You need 19 of 25 (76%) to pass, so in the official 25-question format you can get at most 6 wrong. The best preparation is to study the official West Virginia Driver's Licensing Handbook (revised 07/2026) and take practice tests until you pass them comfortably.

$7.50 — Knowledge test per attempt, per WV DMV.

Yes. This site has 2 free West Virginia knowledge examination practice tests for 2026, each with 25 questions and the official pass mark of 19 of 25 (76%), plus a free road-sign quiz.

WV DMV does not publish a time limit for the West Virginia knowledge examination.

Handbook (rev. 07/2026, 'Retest Information'): 'Applicants who fail either the knowledge or road skills test may not be tested twice within a period of one (1) week, in accordance with §17B-2-6, West Virginia State Code.' Online test notes: 'Applicants who fail testing due to knowledge must wait seven (7) days before attempting to retake the test.' No knowledge-test attempt cap published; the fee is charged 'for each attempt'. Online test: 'a passing test score is valid just six (6) months from the date of test completion'; 'Refunds will not be issued to the Applicant because of test failure'; fraud detected during the online test means 'automatic failure' and, if confirmed, the 'privilege to test will be suspended for a period of at least 90 days' plus a '$50 reinstatement fee'. The Level 1 permit expires on the 18th birthday (30-day grace period) and is not renewable.

The minimum age is 15, per WV DMV.

GDL page: 'Be at least 15 years old and less than 18 years old'; under 18 'a parent, single parent having custody, or legal guardian must sign your application before you can be tested' (handbook: consent 'on form DMV-DS-23P'; married applicants under 18 show 'a certified copy of your marriage certificate'). Handbook (rev. 07/2026): 'Each time you apply and test for the Level 1 GDL instruction permit, you must show a certified birth certificate issued by a state or governmental agency of the U.S. that is responsible for the collection of vital records. You must also provide a Social Security Administration issued Social Security Number.'; vision screening ('at least 20/40 vision in one (1) eye'). Knowledge-testing documents page: 'Proof of Identity Documents', 'Social Security Number (Know your number or bring proof)', 'Proof of Legal Name Change Document', 'Proof of WV Residence Document (2)'. First-time applicants: 'one proof of identity, one proof of Social Security number, two proofs of WV residency with name and physical address'. The older 07/2022 handbook also required a valid 'School Driver Eligibility Certificate' for under-18s; the 07/2026 Level 1 text no longer mentions it. Online test: identity registration with name, address, date of birth and 'last five digits of SSN'; under 18 'must have an adult over the age of 18 to participate in the registration process'.

The official West Virginia Driver's Licensing Handbook (revised 07/2026). You can read it on the official site.