Pennsylvania Driving Theory Test FAQ

How many questions are on the Pennsylvania permit test?

18 questions — one of the shortest knowledge tests in the country — but you need 83% correct (15 of 18) to pass.

What score do I need to pass?

83% correct, or 15 of the 18 questions — a higher bar than most states, despite the shorter test.

How much does it cost?

$45.50 covers the initial learner's permit and a 4-year Class C license together; adding a motorcycle permit brings the total to $63.50.

What documents do I need to bring?

Proof of identity and date of birth, your Social Security number, and — if you're under 18 — a signed parent/guardian certification for your 65 hours of supervised driving.

What happens if I don't pass?

No cap on knowledge-test retakes. The road test is different: after 3 failed attempts, you need to file a new learner's permit application to keep going.

Can I take the test online?

No — the handbook describes in-person testing only, at a Driver License Center.

What's the minimum age to get a learner's permit in Pennsylvania?

16 years old.

How many hours of supervised driving do I need before the road test?

65 hours if you're under 18, including at least 10 hours at night and 5 hours in bad weather.

How long do I have to wait between getting my permit and taking the road test?

At least 6 months from your permit's issue date, if you're under 18 — on top of finishing the 65 required supervised hours.

Is this practice test free, and is it the official PennDOT test?

It's completely free with no sign-up required, but it's an independent study tool, not the official PennDOT knowledge test or affiliated with PennDOT.