Pennsylvania Driver’s License Tests & Permit Practice
Results
Well done! This is a good score. Do you want to try again?
Or check your knowledge of Pennsylvania road signs!
Do you want to try again?
Or check your knowledge of Pennsylvania road signs!
#1. It is against the law for anyone under the age of 21 to:
It is against the law for anyone under age 21 to consume, possess or transport alcohol.
The age limit for serving alcohol in Pennsylvania is 18.
#2. Which is true about large trucks?
Trucks take longer to stop than a car traveling at the same speed.
A loaded truck with good tires and properly adjusted brakes, traveling at 65 mph on a clear, dry roadway, requires a minimum of 600 feet to come to a complete stop (compared to the stopping distance of 400 feet for a passenger vehicle).
#3. When driving in fog, you should use your:
Turn on your headlights when there are unfavorable atmospheric conditions, including rain, snow, sleet, hail, fog, smoke, or smog. In bad weather, use only low beams. High beams actually reduce visibility under these conditions.
#4. A sign with this shape, color, and symbol means:
When you see this sign, do not drive onto that street or ramp in the direction you are heading.
#5. This is the shape and background color of:
This is an example of an Interstate route sign.
The shape and color of route number signs indicate the type of roadway: interstate, U.S., state, city, or county road. When planning a trip, use a road map to determine your route. During the trip, follow the route signs to prevent you from getting lost.
#6. When being passed by another vehicle, you should:
When you are being passed by another vehicle, you should maintain a constant speed and stay to the right until the other driver has safely passed.
#7. When making a right turn, you must:
Make right turns from as close to the right edge of the roadway as possible (not the center or left lane). Signal three to four seconds before you turn. Control your speed. Watch out for pedestrians and for other traffic. You must yield to crossing pedestrians.
#8. When you see this sign:
Added lane sign. This sign is placed in advance of a point where two roadways meet. It means merging is not necessary because the entering traffic uses a new lane that has been added to the roadway.
#9. Hydroplaning can be prevented by driving:
At excessive speeds, your vehicle can begin to hydroplane on a wet roadway. Hydroplaning happens when your tires lose their grip on the road and ride like skis on a film of water. The faster you drive on a wet roadway, the less effective your tires become at wiping the water from the road. You can hydroplane at speeds as low as 35 mph, when water is only 1/10 of an inch deep. Worn tires make this problem worse. Hydroplaning can be reduced by driving slower.
#10. Lanes of traffic moving in the same direction are divided by:
White lines are used as right edge lines on roadways and to separate traffic going in the same direction.
#11. In which situation are you allowed to pass a school bus?
When the bus stops with its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended, you must stop at least 10 feet away from the bus whether you are behind it or coming toward it on the same roadway or approaching an intersection at which the school bus is stopped. If you are signaled by a traffic officer or school crossing guard to proceed, do so carefully.
#12. Which is true about signaling before making a sudden stop?
Always signal to other drivers when you plan to turn left, right, slow down, or stop. Signals may be given by hand-and-arm positions or by using the vehicle’s signal lights
#13. On which side should you pass a barricade with this panel?
Work zone channelizing device: vertical panel. Stripes sloping downward to the right mean pass to the right.
Compare with a yellow and black object marker.
#14. White traffic signs display:
Regulatory signs have a red or white background and inform drivers of traffic laws or regulations. Some, such as SPEED LIMIT signs, may only include words. Others, such as NO U-TURN signs, use only images. Some are a combination of words and images.
#15. A traffic signal with a flashing yellow arrow means:
A flashing yellow arrow means you may turn in the direction of the arrow with caution, however, you must first yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. When you turn during the flashing yellow arrow phase, your turn is NOT protected, oncoming traffic will have a green light.
#16. Always turn your front wheels away from the curb when you are parked on a grade and facing:
Headed uphill, turn your front wheels away from the curb and let your vehicle roll back a few inches.
#17. Failure to comply with a railroad crossing gate will result in a suspension of your driving privilege for:
Failure to comply with a railroad crossing gate will result in a suspension of your driving privilege for 30 days and four points on your driving record.
#18. Why should you allow more space in front of your vehicle when following a large truck?
Allow a longer following distance than usual when you are following a large vehicle blocking your view ahead. You need extra room to see around the vehicle.
Remember, drivers of trucks, buses, vans, or cars pulling campers or trailers often have large blind spots directly behind them. They may slow down suddenly without knowing you are behind them.
| This Pennsylvania Written Practice Test | |
|---|---|
| Number of questions on each test: | 18 |
| Question pool: | 500+ |
| Type of test: | Random multiple-choice |
| Pennsylvania Written Knowledge Test | |
|---|---|
| Number of questions on exam: | 18 questions |
| Passing score: | 84 percent |
| Correct answers to pass: | 15 |
| Allotted time to complete test: | No limit |
| Wait time before retest: | 1 day |
Pennsylvania (PennDot) Practice Tests
This permit practice test has 18 random study questions with answers found in the Pennsylvania Driver’s Manual. All questions are for the state of Pennsylvania. You are likely to find some on your real PA PennDot knowledge exam.
After each question, you will get instant feedback to help you learn faster. If you miss a question, a brief explanation enables you to understand the correct answer.
Using this practice test a few times is the easiest way to make sure you will pass the Pennsylvania knowledge test the first time.
How Should I Study?
Start by getting the latest version of the Pennsylvania Driver’s Manual. You can get it from a PennDOT location near you or download it online .
Read the manual to get an overview of what you must learn.
The next step is to use the practice tests to verify your progress and level of readiness. The manual is handy for quick reference whenever you miss a question. Try to understand each question and answer.
If you focus only on memorizing answers, you are much more likely to fail the exam.
Remember, you can take this test repeatedly until you have covered all critical items. Each set of questions is random, meaning you will see new questions each time you take the test.
How to Ace the driver’s license test .
What is the Passing Score on the PA Knowledge Test?
The passing score in Pennsylvania is 84 percent, which means you must answer at least 15 of 18 questions correctly.
It helps to always aim for a 100% score on the practice tests. Since the real exam only has 18 questions, you have little room for errors.
Who Must Take the Pennsylvania Knowledge Exam?
You must pass a knowledge exam if this is the first time you have had a license.
If you have a driver’s license from another state but let your license expire for more than six months, you must also take the test.
PennDot will waive the test if your out-of-state driver’s license is valid or has expired six months or less.
With an out-of-country license, you must pass the knowledge test unless you are a citizen of France, Germany, or Canada and hold a valid license from your home country.
More about the Pennsylvania Written Test
The PennDot knowledge exam aims to verify your knowledge of traffic signs, Pennsylvania’s driving laws, and safe driving practices.
You take the test on computer-based stations. The test is available in Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), English, French, Hindi, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese languages at all locations. Upon request, you can also take a voice (oral) test.
For individuals who are hard of hearing and communicate by sign language, the Bureau of Driver Licensing will provide an interpreter. Make sure you call the local office ahead of your test.
If you fail the knowledge exam, you must wait one business day before you can retake the test.
Pennsylvania Knowledge Test FAQ
How many questions are on the Pennsylvania knowledge test?
The Pennsylvania knowledge test for a learner's permit or driver's license has 18 questions. You need 15 correct answers to pass the test.
Is the Pennsylvania knowledge test hard?
The Pennsylvania knowledge test for a learner's permit or driver's license is considered fairly easy. It has basic questions about Pennsylvania driving rules. You can miss 3 of the 18 questions on the test and still pass.
Do I need an appointment for the knowledge test?
Under normal circumstances, you don't need to make an appointment. Look up your nearest service center, bring your completed Non-Commercial Learner's Permit Application (PDF), your completed Parent and Guardian Consent form (PDF) and required proof of identity and residency, and appropriate fee.
What happens if I fail the Pennsylvania knowledge test?
If you fail the knowledge test, you can take it again the next business day. Your fee is valid for three attempts. If you fail three times, you must pay the fee again.
What You Need to Know about the Pennsylvania Learner’s Permit
Holding a learner’s permit means you can begin your behind-the-wheel practice.
PennDOT issues the permit after you have completed a physical examination, vision screening, and knowledge test.
With your learner’s permit, you must practice driving for at least six months before PennDOT allows you to take the road test for a junior license. The permit is valid for one year.
The permit comes with some important rules:
You cannot drive alone.
The supervising driver must be 21 years or older.
An experienced, licensed driver 21 years or older must always accompany you. The supervising driver must sit beside you in the front seat.
Night-time driving is restricted.
You can only drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. – if for employment or volunteer or charitable service.
Passengers restrictions apply.
You can have only one non-family member under 18 in the vehicle unless a parent or legal guardian is in the car.
Avoid Driver Points.
PennDot will suspend your permit for 90 days if you accumulate six points or have a high-speed violation (driving 26 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit).
Practice driving for at least 65 hours
Before taking your skills test, a parent or guardian must certify that your behind-the-wheel practice included at least 65 hours of practical, adult-supervised driving experience before moving on to the next step.
Your driving practice must include 10 hours of night driving and five hours in poor weather conditions.
What You Need to Know about the Pennsylvania Junior License
After passing your road test, you are eligible for the Pennsylvania Junior License.
The following restrictions apply when driving with a Junior License:
Night-time restrictions.
You cannot drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Exceptions for employment and volunteer or charitable service will apply, but young drivers must carry proper documentation regarding their need to travel.
Passenger restrictions.
You can have only one non-family member under 18 in the vehicle. After six months, the restriction is at most three passengers under 18.
The law excludes immediate family members from the restriction.
The restriction also does not apply if you have a parent or legal guardian in the vehicle.
Pennsylvania Learner’s Permit FAQ
Can I drive at night with a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit?
With a learner's permit you cannot drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. if you are under 18 years. You may, however, drive during these hours if it is for employment and for volunteer or charitable service. Under no circumstances are you allowed to drive without a supervising licensed driver who is 21 years or older.
There is no nighttime restriction if you are 18 years or older.
Can I drive with passengers if I have a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit?
If you are under 18 years and hold a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit you can drive with only one non-family member under 18 in the vehicle. You may drive with family members and also friends that are 18 years or older. An experienced, licensed driver 21 years or older must always accompany you.
There is no passenger restriction if you are 18 years or older.
Can I drive to work or school if I hold a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit?
Yes, you may drive to work or school if an experienced, licensed driver 21 years or older is sitting beside you. Under no circumstances may you drive unsupervised.
How long must I hold a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit?
If you are under 18 years there is a six-month waiting period before PennDOT lets you take the driving test. You must have completed at least 65 hours of driving practice, including 10 hours of night driving and five hours of driving in poor weather conditions.
How many hours of behind-the-wheel practice do I need before I can take the Pennsylvania road test?
The graduated licensing law in Pennsylvania requires that you practice driving for at least 65 hours. These hours must include 10 hours of driving at night and five hours of driving in poor weather conditions.
What You Need to Know about the Pennsylvania Learner’s Permit
Holding a learner’s permit means you can begin your behind-the-wheel practice.
PennDOT issues the permit after you have completed a physical examination, vision screening, and knowledge test.
With your learner’s permit, you must practice driving for at least six months before PennDOT allows you to take the road test for a junior license. The permit is valid for one year.
The permit comes with some important rules:
You cannot drive alone.
The supervising driver must be 21 years or older.
An experienced, licensed driver 21 years or older must always accompany you. The supervising driver must sit beside you in the front seat.
Night-time driving is restricted.
You may drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. only if it is for employment, volunteer, or charitable service.
Passenger restrictions apply.
You may have only one non-family passenger under 18 in the vehicle unless a parent or legal guardian is present
Avoid Driver Points.
PennDot will suspend your permit for 90 days if you accumulate six points or have a high-speed violation (driving 26 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit).
Practice driving for at least 65 hours
Before taking your skills test, a parent or guardian must certify that your behind-the-wheel practice included at least 65 hours of adult-supervised driving before moving on to the next step.
Your driving practice must include 10 hours of night driving and five hours in poor weather conditions.
What You Need to Know about the Pennsylvania Junior License
After passing your road test, you become eligible for the Pennsylvania Junior License.
The following restrictions apply when driving with a Junior License:
Night-time restrictions.
You cannot drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Exceptions for employment and volunteer or charitable service will apply, but young drivers must carry proper documentation regarding their need to travel.
Passenger restrictions.
You can have only one non-family member under 18 in the vehicle. After six months, the restriction increases to a maximum of three passengers under 18.
The law excludes immediate family members from the restriction.
The restriction also does not apply if you have a parent or legal guardian in the vehicle.
Pennsylvania Learner’s Permit FAQ
Can I drive at night with a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit?
With a learner's permit you cannot drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. if you are under 18 years. You may, however, drive during these hours if it is for employment and for volunteer or charitable service. Under no circumstances are you allowed to drive without a supervising licensed driver who is 21 years or older.
There is no nighttime restriction if you are 18 years or older.
Can I drive with passengers if I have a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit?
If you are under 18 years and hold a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit you can drive with only one non-family member under 18 in the vehicle. You may drive with family members and also friends that are 18 years or older. An experienced, licensed driver 21 years or older must always accompany you.
There is no passenger restriction if you are 18 years or older.
Can I drive to work or school if I hold a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit?
Yes, you may drive to work or school if an experienced, licensed driver 21 years or older is sitting beside you. Under no circumstances may you drive unsupervised.
How long must I hold a Pennsylvania Learner's Permit?
If you are under 18 years there is a six-month waiting period before PennDOT lets you take the driving test. You must have completed at least 65 hours of driving practice, including 10 hours of night driving and five hours of driving in poor weather conditions.
How many hours of behind-the-wheel practice do I need before I can take the Pennsylvania road test?
The graduated licensing law in Pennsylvania requires that you practice driving for at least 65 hours. These hours must include 10 hours of driving at night and five hours of driving in poor weather conditions.
Pennsylvania Knowledge Test on Video
Video: Pennsylvania Driver’s License Test – 18 Questions
Video 2: Pennsylvania License Exam Questions and Answers
Pennsylvania Road Sign Test – 15 Road Signs
This road sign practice test offers a unique way of studying some common road signs that may appear on your official driver’s license test in Pennsylvania. It has 15 road sign questions. You can find a description of all signs in the Pennsylvania Driver’s Manual.
