California
It’s multiple choice and you need 80% to pass, with three tries per application. We found no question count for the first-time test on dmv.ca.gov. You can take it in 40+ languages, and often online.
We found no question count for first-time applicants on dmv.ca.gov; what DMV does state is the pass mark, 80%.
Counts that circulate online, such as 46 or 36 questions, aren’t on any current DMV page we found. DMV’s senior-driver page does say an in-office renewal test has 25 questions.
80%. DMV states it on its instruction-permit page, for applicants under and over 18.
Three times per application; after a third failure you reapply.
Drivers under 18 wait 7 days after a failed attempt, not counting the test day.
Yes. DMV says the knowledge test is offered in more than 40 languages in its offices, and the online test in 35.
Its senior-driver page adds that if you take the written test in another language, you must also take a traffic-signs test. DMV’s own Chinese study materials (the handbook and the sample tests) are in Traditional Chinese.
dmv.ca.gov: AB 60 Driver’s Licenses DMV news release, Dec 28, 2023: online knowledge tests dmv.ca.gov: Senior Drivers California Driver Handbook, Chinese edition (PDF)
If you’re eligible, yes. Per DMV’s December 2023 release, the online knowledge test needs a computer or laptop with a webcam (not a phone or tablet), runs on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is offered in 35 languages.
You get two tries online; a third has to be at an office. The questions come from the same pool as the office test. That year DMV opened it to applicants under 18 and to people moving from another state.
Multiple-choice questions based on the California Driver Handbook.
DMV’s four free sample tests (10 questions each) are the best official check; in our count of their 40 items, speed limits and parking come up most.
dmv.ca.gov: Sample Knowledge Tests
Two original practice questions from our bank (not DMV questions), with explanations.
Answer: C. 3 feet
When you pass a bicyclist in your lane, leave at least three feet so you don’t put the rider in danger. If you can’t give three feet, wait until you can.
California Driver Handbook: Laws and Rules of the Road (cont.) Rule
Answer: B. Parking for a limited time
A green curb means limited-time parking, so the space turns over and more drivers get to use it. White is passenger pick-up/drop-off, yellow is loading, red is no stopping, blue is disabled parking.
California Driver Handbook: Navigating the Roads (cont.) Rule
A vision test (pass it with glasses or contacts and your license will require them), document checks and a photo.
No aids are allowed during the test, including the handbook or your phone.
California Driver Handbook: The Testing Process California Driver Handbook: Getting an Instruction Permit and Driver’s License
Each chapter page has the rules in plain English and up to 3 sample questions with explanations. The full question bank is in the app.