What's the Passing Score on North Dakota's Permit Test?
20 of 25 questions correct — 80% — passes North Dakota's permit test, regardless of whether it's taken in person or through the state's KnowToDrive online option.
Same threshold, two different testing paths
Whether an applicant sits the test at a DOT office or completes it remotely through KnowToDrive under a parent's webcam supervision, the same 80% bar applies either way — the online option changes where and how you test, not what score you need.
With only 25 questions total, a single missed run of questions in one topic area can matter more than it would on a longer exam.
Practicing for the format you'll actually use
An applicant testing online should get comfortable navigating a screen-based interface beforehand, since unfamiliarity with the format itself can eat into the time and focus that should go toward the material.
Whichever path you choose, treat 80% as a floor rather than a target — aim noticeably higher in practice so real testing nerves don't push you under the line.
Content worth extra review
North Dakota's own graduated-licensing details — the different permit hold lengths depending on whether you started at 14 or 15, and which relatives count as an allowed passenger on a restricted license — show up as genuinely state-specific questions, not generic road-rule content.
The dedicated winter survival material is also worth real attention rather than skimming, since it's tested alongside the more universal topics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions can I miss on North Dakota's permit test?
Up to 5 and still pass with 20 correct (80%); a 6th miss fails the 25-question test.
Does the passing score change if I test through KnowToDrive instead of in person?
No — the same 80% threshold applies whether you test online or at a DOT office.
Does the passing score differ for the motorcycle or CDL test?
No — North Dakota uses 80% across all three knowledge tests, though the total question count differs by track.
Ready to put this into practice?
Start a free North Dakota permit practice testLast reviewed: 2026-07-24