DMV Written Test Question Examples
The DMV written test is the first hurdle applicants will need to cross to get a driver’s license. Students can prepare for the test with the Varsity Driving Academy course. They can also use some DMV written test question examples to set expectations.
How to Get a Driver’s License in California
These DMV written test questions give applicants an idea of what the test will look like and how to study for a driver’s license test. Students under the age of 18 will need to attend a driving class before they can apply for their driver’s license at the DMV.
Students will need to apply for the license with the DMV and schedule their written test. This written test covers the basics of driving law and technique. However, the test is actually designed to test driving knowledge, not just memory skills.
Students must understand these driving laws and techniques, not just memorize them. For example, students may get a question like, “What do you do at a four way stop sign?” and then later in the test get a question like, “How are four way intersections handled safely?” Essentially the same question, just asked in different ways.
How to Pass the DMV Written Test
The first thing to point out with these DMV written test questions is that failure is not the end. Students who fail the knowledge test will be able to take the test again. In fact, the DMV allows for three attempts. Applicants under the age of 18 must wait 7 days between test attempts.
Applicants are allowed to miss up to 8 questions on the test; missing 9 questions results in a failure. It is important to take your time, read each question carefully, and if you aren’t confident in your answer, skip it and come back to it at the end of the test.
DMV Written Test Question Examples
Applicants can use these example questions to get an idea of what to expect on the test. These questions are examples from past tests; they will not be seen on any new test. Instead, get a feel for the wording, the repetitiveness, and better prepare for the test before heading to the DMV.
1. When is it legal to drive off the road to pass another vehicle?
A. If the vehicle ahead is turning left.
B. It is not legal under any conditions.
C. If there are two or more one-way lanes.
2. When a railroad crossing is not controlled, what is the speed limit when you are within 100 feet and cannot see for 400 feet in both directions?
A. 15 mph.
B. 10 mph.
C. 25 mph.
3. Which of the following is a requirement of California’s Basic Speed Law?
A. Always drive the speed limit, regardless of conditions.
B. Match your speed to that of your surrounding traffic.
C. Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions.
4. When is parking in a crosshatched (diagonal lines) area allowed?
A. It is never allowed to park in a crosshatched (diagonal lines) area.
B. If the area is at least twenty feet away from a railroad track.
C. If the area is labeled as a bicycle lane, unless otherwise posted.
5. When is it required for you to obey directions from a crossing guard?
A. At all times.
B. During school hours only.
C. Only when children are present in front of a school.
Answers:
As you can see, the test uses very specific wording to get a very specific answer. This is why it is important to take your time, read each question carefully, and be sure to understand it before selecting an answer. Just like driving, it is not a race; you will not get bonus points for finishing faster. That is what these DMV written test question examples showcase. So, how did you do?
- B
- A
- C
- A
- B
