Based on Tennessee DOS Handbook 2026

Tennessee DMV Permit Practice Test 30 Questions 2026

Medium difficulty
⏱ ~18 min
📊 Avg. first-try score: 71%

Perfect for: Learner's permit applicants • First-time license applicants in Tennessee

This practice test mirrors the exact format of the real TN DMV permit test: 30 multiple-choice questions, need 24/30 to pass (80%). Topics covered match the official 2026 Tennessee DOS Driver Handbook — from speed limits and GDL rules to the Move Over law and implied consent.

How the TN DMV Permit Test Works

The Tennessee knowledge test is administered in person at any Tennessee DOS driver license office. Understanding the format helps you prepare effectively and avoid surprises on test day.

DetailDOS Requirement
Number of questions30 multiple-choice
Passing score24/30 (80%)
Questions you can missUp to 6
Time limitNo time limit
Test formatIn-person only (no online option)
Retake wait periodCan retake after 1 day if failed

What the 30 Questions Cover

The DOS knowledge test draws questions from across the official Tennessee Driver Handbook. Here is a breakdown of the topic areas and approximate number of questions in each category.

Topic AreaApprox. Questions
Traffic laws & speed limits~5 questions
Road signs & signals~4 questions
Safe driving practices~4 questions
GDL rules & teen driving restrictions~4 questions
Alcohol/DUI laws~4 questions
Right-of-way & intersections~4 questions
Parking & vehicle operation~5 questions

Study Tip

Focus on state-specific rules that differ from neighboring states — GDL ages, curfew times, BAC thresholds, and department-specific retake policies are frequently tested and easy to confuse.

Interactive Exam Simulator

TN DMV Permit Practice Test — 30 Questions

Answer all 30 questions. You need 24/30 (80%) to pass the real test.

Question 1 of 300% Complete

What is the default speed limit on most urban streets in Tennessee when no speed limit sign is posted?

Questions are created and maintained by the DMV Question Bank content team following a rigorous editorial process. Content is updated regularly to reflect the latest Tennessee Driver Handbook and Tennessee traffic laws.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How many questions are on the Tennessee DOS permit test?
The Tennessee Department of Safety (DOS) permit test has 30 multiple-choice questions. You need to answer at least 24 correctly (80%) to pass.
What score do you need to pass the Tennessee permit test?
You need 24 out of 30 questions correct — a passing score of 80%. Missing 7 or more questions means you fail and must wait 1 day before retaking.
How many questions can you miss on the Tennessee DOS test?
You can miss up to 6 questions on the 30-question knowledge test. Missing 7 or more means you fail.
Is there a time limit on the Tennessee permit test?
No. The Tennessee DOS does not impose a time limit on the knowledge test. Take your time on each question, but do not overthink it.
What is the retake policy if I fail the Tennessee permit test?
If you fail, you must wait 1 day before retaking. Use that time to review the areas where you struggled. Consistently scoring 90%+ on practice tests before your appointment is the best way to pass on the first try.
Can I take the Tennessee permit test online?
No. As of 2026, all Tennessee DOS knowledge tests must be taken in person at a Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Driver Services Center.
What is Tennessee's GDL nighttime curfew for teen drivers?
Tennessee drivers under 17 with a restricted license may not drive between 11 PM and 6 AM unless accompanied by a licensed adult age 21 or older, or driving to/from a job or school-sponsored activity.
What is Tennessee's zero tolerance law for underage drivers?
Tennessee's zero tolerance law sets an illegal BAC threshold of 0.02% for drivers under 21 — any amount above that is illegal. This differs from NC's absolute zero tolerance. A BAC of 0.02%+ results in license revocation and criminal penalties for underage drivers.