Pennsylvania PennDOT Knowledge Test: Questions, Passing Score & Requirements
Last updated , checked against official PennDOT sources.
In Pennsylvania you pass the PennDOT knowledge test to get a learner's permit. The test is short, so every mistake counts: you can miss at most 3 of the 18 questions.
Test format
The test is the same whether you are under 18 or an adult.
Minimum age for a learner's permit: 16. Our app's exam simulation follows this format for both age groups.
Requirements by age
Under 18
- You can apply for a learner's permit from your 16th birthday.
- A parent, guardian, person in loco parentis or spouse who is 18 or older must complete the Parent or Guardian Consent Form (DL-180TD).
- Your health care provider completes the medical part of the permit application (DL-180), no earlier than six months before your 16th birthday.
- Before the road test you need 65 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night and 5 hours in bad weather, and you must hold the permit for six months.
18 and older
- If you are 18 or older, bring two proofs of Pennsylvania residency, such as a current utility bill, a W-2 form, tax records, a lease or mortgage documents.
- Your health care provider still completes the medical part of the permit application (DL-180).
Taking the test
- You take the test at a PennDOT Driver License Center. It is offered in writing and in audio, in about 30 languages including English and Spanish.
- Bring the completed DL-180, original proof of date of birth and identity (no photocopies) and your signed Social Security card.
- Your vision is tested by your health care provider or at the Driver License Center.
- You can take the test once a day. If you fail, you can retake it the next business day.
- The learner's permit is valid for one year. The initial permit together with your first 4-year license costs $45.50.
What the test covers
Questions come from the official Pennsylvania driver handbook: road signs and markings, right-of-way, speed and following distance, safe driving habits, and alcohol and drug laws. Our course covers it in 32 video lessons. These are free on the website:
Ready to check yourself?
Take a free 20-question Pennsylvania practice test with an explanation for every answer. No sign-up or download.
Sources
From the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), last checked on October 22, 2026. Rules and fees can change, so confirm with the agency before your test.