PENNSYLVANIA DMV TEST - FAQ

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

What is the age requirement to obtain a Pennsylvania Driver’s License?

You must be at least 18 years old to apply for your Driver License. If you are at least 16 years old you can apply for a Learner’s Permit.

Who needs a Pennsylvania Driver’s License?

Pennsylvania residents, of at least 16 years of age, who want to drive a motor vehicle.

Do I have to pass a test to obtain a Pennsylvania Driver’s License?

Yes, you must pass the Vision, Knowledge and Road Tests.

LEARNER’S PERMIT

What do I have to do to obtain my Pennsylvania Learner’s Permit?

  • Be at least 16 years old;
  • Complete the Learner’s Permit Application (including a confirmation from your health care provider concerning your health status);
  • Provide the Parent or Guardian Consent Form signed by your parent/guardian;
  • Provide proof of identification and date of birth;
  • Provide your Social Security card;
  • Pay the fee;
  • Pass the vision and knowledge tests.

How long is my Learner’s Permit valid?

1 year.

Can I drive with my Learner’s Permit?

Of course, you must practice supervised driving in order to be able to pass your Road Test. If you are under 18 years of age, you must complete at least 65 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction (including at least 10 hours at night and 5 hours of bad weather driving) before you are allowed to take your Road Test.

Any restrictions while driving with my Learner’s Permit?

  • You are allowed to drive only if accompanied by a licensed driver of at least 21 years of age or by a parent/guardian, riding in the car in the seat beside you.
  • If you are under 18 years of age, you are not allowed to carry more passengers than the number of seat belts available in the car.

I completed the 65 hours of behind-the-wheel skill-building. Can I take the Road Test?

Yes, if you have held your Learner’s Permit for at least 6 months.

I passed my Road Test. What’s next?

You will obtain your Junior Driver’s License.

Any restrictions while driving with my Junior Driver’s License?

You are allowed to drive alone only from 5am to 11 pm, or anytime if accompanied by a licensed person of at least 21 years of age or by a parent/legal guardian.

How can I obtain my regular Pennsylvania Driver’s License?

  • Hold your Junior Driver’s License for at least 1 year;
  • Avoid any violation of the PA Vehicle Code;
  • Do not cause any crash;
  • Obtain the consent from your parent or legal guardian.
Your Junior Driver’s License will automatically change to a regular driver license once you turn 18.

PENNSYLVANIA DOT KNOWLEDGE TEST

How many questions are on the DOT written test?

The knowledge test consists of 18 questions.

What is the score required to pass the test?

You must correctly answer at least 15 questions (83%) to pass the test.

How can I prepare for the Pennsylvania knowledge test?

Study the Pennsylvania Driver’s Manual, and practice with our DMV written tests!

I failed my knowledge test. What do I have to do?

You are allowed to take one test per day and you can repeat the test on the following business day.

I failed my knowledge test. Can I obtain my Learner’s Permit?

No.

PENNSYLVANIA ROAD TEST

How can I schedule my Road Test?

Online at dmv.pa.gov or calling 1-800-423-5542.

Which documents do I need to provide to take my Road Test?

  • Valid Learner’s Permit;
  • Signed form for 65 hours of behind-the-wheel training (if you are under 18 years of age);
  • Proof of insurance and Registration Card for the vehicle you provide for the test;
  • Valid driver’s license of the parent/legal guardian who accompanies you to the Driver License Center.
Documents must be provided in the original version.

What are the top reasons why new drivers fail the Road Test?

  • Inability to operate a vehicle control;
  • Violating a traffic law;
  • Unsafe driving;
  • Failing to follow the instructions;
  • Causing a crash.

I failed my road test. When can I repeat it?

You must wait 7 days. During this time you should practice and improve your driving skills.