In New York you get a learner permit by passing a vision test and the DMV written permit test. You can take the test in a DMV office or, if you qualify, online at home.
What is on the test
- In a DMV office: 20 questions from the New York State Driver's Manual. You need at least 14 correct, and at least 2 of the 4 road sign questions must be right.
- Online at home: you need at least 80% overall and 50% of the road sign questions.
- The free New York mock tests on PassDriveTest use 20 questions with 14 needed.
Taking it online at home
- Complete DMV's Get a Permit pre-screening. If you qualify, sign in with a NY.gov ID and begin your permit application.
- Take the test on a PC or tablet with a webcam. Without webcam access you cannot start, and if DMV cannot identify you in the images, or more than one person is in the frame, you may have to retake it in an office.
- 16- and 17-year-olds must be supervised by a parent or guardian, who then comes with you to the DMV. Applicants 18 and over sign an attestation (form MV-264).
- If you fail, wait at least 6 hours before trying again.
- After passing, you have two years to book a DMV office visit to pay the fee, submit your documents, pass the vision test and have your photo taken.
A study plan that works
- Read the New York State Driver's Manual (free on dmv.ny.gov), and try its practice tests.
- Learn the signs on the New York road signs tab: missing more than 2 sign questions fails the office test.
- Take full mock tests and review every wrong answer.
- Aim for 18 or more out of 20 on several different mock tests.
After the permit
- Most drivers must complete an approved 5-hour pre-licensing course before the road test.
- Junior permit holders log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, 15 after sunset, certified by a parent or guardian on form MV-262.
Take a free New York mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.