2012 New York DMV Written Practice Test - 20 FREE Questions

When applying for a New York State driver’s license, there are several questions an applicant may want to ask before going to the Department of Motor Vehicles. One of these is who must take the written test, another is information about the test itself, while a third may be what information will be on the test, or if there specific differences on tests for cars as opposed to motorcycles.

Who has to take the New York Written Test?

New York requires that any person applying for a Learner’s Permit take a written test. This requirement covers teens applying for the first time—allowed at age 16—and adults that have never held a license before. Those holding a license from any foreign country with the exception of Canada, or those who have held a license or learner’s permit that has been expired for two years or longer must also take the written test prior to a license being issued.

Those who are not required to take a written test are those drivers renewing their licenses, drivers moving to New York who hold photo licenses issued by other States or any Province of Canada, provided the license has been held for a minimum of six months, and those who are driving in New York with valid license from other countries who do not intend to become residents of New York. Age is not a factor in New York for retaking the written test. However, certain medical conditions must be reported that will require retesting to maintain or regain a driver’s license from the State.

How many questions are on the test?

The test itself is a twenty question handwritten test, covering basic road knowledge. To pass, the applicant must answer sixteen questions correctly. While there is no limit to how many times an applicant may fail and retake the test, he must wait until the next day before doing so. Study guides are available before taking the test, and it is suggested that the applicant take some practice tests before trying the real test.

What about Motorcycle and CDL Permits?

Motorcycles follow the same rules as a regular driver’s license regarding ages and testing requirements, though their manual is different. For those seeking Commercial Driver’s licenses, the base test is a 50 question test, followed by additional tests for each endorsement the driver seeks. Those wishing to receive a hazardous materials endorsement must take this test every two years.