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. You end up in a lane marked for turns only when you want to go straight through the intersection. What should you do?
If you end up in a lane marked for turns only when you want to go straight through the intersection, you must make the turn.
#2. If you pass a stopped emergency vehicle that has lights activated without vacating the lane closest to the emergency response area, it can result in:
Failure to move over or slow down can result in a summary offense that carries a fine of up to $250.
#3. Which color are signs that warn you of specific road conditions?
Yellow is used for general warning and advisory of unexpected roadway conditions.
#4. 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.
#5. Compared to other highway users, motorcyclists:
The motorcyclist has the same rights and responsibilities on the roadway as drivers of other vehicles. Motorists should recognize this and not attempt to crowd motorcycles or take the right-of-way from motorcyclists.
#6. What does this sign mean?
This sign means that the road you are on intersects with a divided highway. At the first roadway, you can only turn right, and at the second roadway, you can only turn left.
#7. Proof of liability insurance is needed:
According to Pennsylvania state law, you must maintain automobile liability insurance on your registered motor vehicle at all times.
If PennDOT finds that your vehicle was not covered by insurance for a period of 31 days or longer, your registration privilege will be suspended for three months. In addition, if you operated or permitted the operation of your vehicle without insurance, your driving privilege will also be suspended for a period of three months.
#8. At a traffic light with a flashing yellow signal, you:
A flashing yellow light means caution. Slow down, look and proceed with care. You don’t need to stop for a flashing yellow light, but you must slow down and be especially alert before entering the intersection.
#9. When must you turn on your headlights?
State law requires drivers to use their headlights:
- When they cannot see because of insufficient light on gray days or in heavy traffic when their vehicle may seem to blend in with the surroundings.
- 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.
- When they cannot see pedestrians or vehicles on the highway for a distance of 1,000 feet ahead of the vehicle they are operating.
- Between sunset and sunrise.
- When driving through work zones.
- Anytime your vehicle’s wipers are in continuous or intermittent use due to weather conditions.
#10. If you encounter an aggressive driver or become involved in a road-rage incident, it is best NOT to:
Avoid eye contact.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe if you encounter an aggressive driver:
- Make every attempt to get out of the aggressive driver’s way.
- Do not block the passing lane. If someone demands to pass, let them go.
- Do not challenge an aggressive driver by speeding up. It will just make the driver angrier and endanger you.
- Avoid eye contact with a hostile driver.
- Ignore gestures, and do not gesture back.
- Call the police or 911, if you have a cell phone and can do it safely, or have a passenger call.
#11. What are the two most important things to remember if your vehicle drifts off of the pavement onto the shoulder?
A drop-off can quickly become an emergency if you do not know how to recover from it. The most important things to remember are: do not steer sharply, and do not brake suddenly. If you turn the wheel sharply to get back onto the road, it can cause the vehicle to whip sideways and cross into oncoming traffic. If you brake hard with two (2) wheels on the pavement and two (2) wheels on a soft shoulder, the vehicle will probably skid out of control.
#12. When you park on a hill headed downhill, and there is a curb, you should turn your front wheels:
Headed downhill, turn your front wheels into the curb or toward the side of the road. Set the parking brake.
#13. When driving on a slippery surface such as snow or ice, you should:
Reduce your speed and increase your following distance when it starts to rain or snow. Do not accelerate or brake quickly. Make turns at a very slow speed. Be extra careful driving on sections of road shaded by trees or buildings, these areas freeze more quickly and dry last. Also, watch out for frost on bridges. Use a low gear when going down steep hills.
#14. This traffic sign warns you of:
Narrow bridge or underpass ahead. Each lane on the bridge or underpass becomes narrower, and there generally is no shoulder. You need to slow down and make sure you stay in your lane. If a driver approaching from the opposite direction has a wide vehicle or is taking up part of your lane, wait until they clears the area.
#15. If gates at a railroad crossing remain down for a long time, and no train passes, you should:
If the gates are lowered and no train passes, call posted railroad emergency toll free number or 911. Be ready to give a detailed description of your location.
#16. What does this sign mean?
The flagger ahead sign warns drivers that there is a flagger ahead that will be controlling traffic. Proceed with caution.
#17. Always allow extra room in front of your vehicle when following:
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.
#18. During a traffic stop, an officer will ask for:
The officer will ask for your driver license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. Wait until the officer asks you to retrieve them. Do not hand the officer your wallet, just the requested items.
| 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.
