Michigan Permit Test FAQ
Plain-English answers about the Michigan permit test, from the What Every Driver Must Know. Always check the official guide for the current rules.
The knowledge test
How many questions are on the Michigan permit test?
The Michigan knowledge test has 50 questions, and you need 40 right (80%) to pass. The What Every Driver Must Know also describes a separate road sign test. Our full practice exam uses the same size and pass mark. Always confirm the current test with the Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State).
What tests do I take for a Michigan permit (TIP)?
A vision test, health questions, the written knowledge test and the road sign test. Knowledge tests are offered in many languages. (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 7)
When should I arrive to take the knowledge test?
At least one hour before the Secretary of State office closes, so you have time to finish. (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 7)
Teen drivers
How old must I be to start driving in Michigan?
You can start Segment 1 of driver education at 14 years, 8 months and get a Level 1 Learner's License at 14 years, 9 months. (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 4)
What are the Level 2 Intermediate License limits?
No driving from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. and no more than one passenger under 21, unless an exception applies (a supervising adult 21+, family, work or authorized activities). (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 5)
When do I get a Level 3 Full License?
At 17 or older, after six months on Level 2 and 12 months in a row with no moving violations, at-fault crashes, suspensions or GDL violations. (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 5)
Adults
I'm 18 and never had a license. What do I do?
Apply for a temporary instruction permit (TIP), practice with a licensed adult for at least 30 days, then pass a driving skills test. (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 6–7)
How long is a TIP valid?
180 days. (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 7)
Rules of the road
What is a Michigan Left?
An indirect left turn: you go straight or right through the intersection, then make a U-turn at a median crossover to complete the left. (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 48)
How much room must I give a bicyclist?
At least 3 feet when passing; if that isn't practical, pass at a safe distance and speed, which may mean waiting or using another lane. (What Every Driver Must Know, p. 57)
Page numbers are the ones printed on the handbook pages; tap one to open the official PDF at that page. A PDF viewer counts the cover too, so its page numbers run 14 higher.