What Happens If You Fail West Virginia's Knowledge Test?
Last updated 2026-08-04
The test is timed, and running out counts as failing those questions
West Virginia's knowledge examination has a time limit, and any question not answered within that time is automatically considered incorrect -- the same as an actual wrong answer. Pacing yourself matters as much as knowing the material.
The test has at least 25 questions, and you need 19 correct (76%) to pass -- meaning you can afford to miss up to 6, but unanswered questions eat into that same margin.
Each attempt costs its own fee
The handbook doesn't describe a specific waiting period between attempts, but it does specify that each attempt at the knowledge test costs $7.50. A failed attempt means paying that fee again for your next try, so treat each sitting as one worth preparing for rather than a free practice run.
Since the manual doesn't spell out a mandatory cooling-off period the way some states do, it's worth asking your local DMV regional office directly what their scheduling practice is if you're not confident about passing on the first attempt.
Audio testing is available if reading is the barrier
West Virginia offers an audio version of the knowledge examination for reading-impaired applicants, administered with headphones and covering the same information as the printed version -- so the same rules and passing threshold apply either way. DMV employees are not permitted to simply read the test aloud to you outside of this official audio format.
If this applies to you, it's worth confirming with your local office ahead of time that the audio version will be available at your appointment, rather than discovering the format on test day.
Study directly from the handbook -- it's the actual source
The knowledge exam is based on the basic knowledge, traffic rules, regulations, signs, and markings found directly in this handbook. A failed attempt is a good prompt to revisit specific chapters rather than a generic outside study guide.
The GDL licensing chapter and the DUI/point-system sections carry the densest concentration of specific numbers in the handbook -- these are worth a close second read if you're not sure exactly where you lost points.
A failed road skills test has its own separate attempt limit
For a Level 2 Intermediate License specifically, the road skills test allows a maximum of three attempts. This is a distinct limit from the knowledge test's fee-per-attempt structure, and it's worth knowing in advance if you're not confident about the driving portion.
Because the road skills test is a separate hurdle from the knowledge test entirely, passing one doesn't reduce your remaining attempts on the other -- they're tracked independently.
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More West Virginia Guides
- How Long Is a West Virginia Instruction Permit Valid?
- How West Virginia's Graduated Driver's License System Works
- What to Bring to Your West Virginia Permit Test Appointment
- Do You Need Driver's Education in West Virginia?
Rules and requirements change — always confirm current details with WV DMV before your exam. Check the full guides index or the West Virginia cheat sheet and FAQ, or take a free West Virginia practice test.