In short
The US permit test is a written/computer exam at your state DMV covering road law, signs, and safe-driving practices. Format and pass marks vary by state. You must pass the permit test before getting a learner's permit and starting behind-the-wheel practice.
Updated 2026-06-06 · 8 min read · By Driving Routes Editorial
What the permit test covers
Driving Routes doesn't cover the permit test directly (that's a textbook-style theory exam), but here's the lay of the land: the test asks about road signs, traffic rules, right-of-way, parking law, safe-driving practices, and alcohol/drug laws.
Most states use multiple-choice questions; pass marks range from 75% to 85%.
State-by-state variation
California: 36 questions, 30 to pass. New York: 20 questions, 14 to pass. Texas: 30 questions, 21 to pass. Florida: 50 questions, 40 to pass. Check your state DMV.
What happens after you pass
You get a learner's permit, which lets you drive with a licensed adult (typically 21+) in the passenger seat. Most states require a minimum holding period (3–12 months) before you can take the road test.