How Many Questions Are on the California Permit Test?
The California DMV's official written knowledge test for a learner's permit has 46 multiple-choice questions, and you need to answer at least 38 of them correctly to pass.
The official test format
The California DMV permit test consists of 46 multiple-choice questions drawn from the California Driver Handbook, covering topics like right-of-way, traffic signs and signals, speed laws, DUI law, and safe driving practices.
Each question has a single correct answer among a few choices. The test is administered on a computer at a DMV field office as part of your permit application appointment.
Because DMV procedures and test formats can change, always confirm the current format and requirements on the official CA DMV website or at your local field office before your appointment.
How the questions are distributed by topic
The official test draws from the full range of topics in the handbook rather than any single area, which is why broad topic coverage matters more than memorizing a short list of facts.
Our free California permit practice tests cover 27 topic areas, including right-of-way, traffic signs, DUI and alcohol law, provisional license rules, and more, so you can see which areas need more review before test day.
How our practice tests are structured
Rather than mirroring the exact 46-question format, dmvwrittenexam.com splits its 200+ original California permit questions into multiple 25-question practice tests, so you get more total repetitions across more topics than a single official-length test would allow.
Each question includes an explanation and a source reference, so you learn the reasoning behind the correct answer rather than just memorizing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the California permit test multiple choice?
Yes. Every question on the official CA DMV knowledge test has a single correct answer among a small set of choices, the same format used throughout our free practice tests.
What happens if I don't pass the California permit test?
Retake policies, including any waiting period or fee, are set by the DMV and can vary. Check with your local DMV field office or the official CA DMV website for current retake rules.
Do I need to answer all 46 questions to see my score?
The official test format is set by the DMV and can change, so confirm the current procedure with the DMV directly. Our free practice tests always show your full score and a topic-by-topic breakdown as soon as you finish.
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Start a free California permit practice testLast reviewed: 2026-07-06