New York Class D Permit Test 2026: 20 Questions, 70% Pass

In New York, the ordinary passenger-car licence is Class D. Before you can drive with a learner permit, you take a knowledge test at a DMV office (or online if you are under 18 and eligible). The questions on this site follow that exam and the New York State Driver's Manual.

Test format

• 20 multiple-choice questions
• 14 correct answers to pass (70%)
• 4 of the 20 are road-sign questions — you must get at least 2 of those 4 right, even if your overall score is already 14
• Available in about 20 languages, including Chinese

That separate signs requirement catches many first-time test takers. Practise signs on their own, not only mixed quizzes.

What the manual covers

Chapters that feed the permit test include traffic control, intersections and turns, passing, parking, defensive driving, alcohol and drugs, special conditions, and sharing the road. Road-sign charts are tested heavily.

After you pass

Adults receive a learner permit and must follow supervision rules until the road test. Drivers under 18 enter New York's Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, with a minimum permit holding period, supervised hours, and night curfews. Always confirm current ages and hour requirements on the official DMV site before you book.

Official source

The manual page says Chapters 4–11 plus the sign chart are on the written test; Chapters 1–3 and 12 are not. If you pass online (under 18), DMV requires three business days before the office visit — go earlier and you retake on site. Details and the official sign list are in the sign-questions article.

Study the free New York State Driver's Manual and practice tests, then use this question bank for extra drills with written explanations.