Minnesota Permit Test FAQ
Plain-English answers about the Minnesota permit test, from the Minnesota Driver's Manual. Always check the official guide for the current rules.
The written test
How many questions are on the Minnesota permit test?
The Minnesota knowledge test has 40 questions, and you need 32 right (80%) to pass. Our full practice exam uses the same size and pass mark. Always confirm the current test with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS).
What kind of questions are on the Minnesota written test?
Multiple-choice and true-or-false questions about Minnesota traffic laws and road signs, on paper or on a computer. Computer tests can be heard through headphones and come in several languages and ASL. (Minnesota Driver's Manual, p. 10)
Do I need an appointment for the written test?
Yes. Book the Class D written test at a DVS exam station ahead of time; only one try per day is allowed. (Minnesota Driver's Manual, p. 10)
Is there a time limit on the written test?
Not at a DVS exam station. A third-party proctor sets a limit and may charge for the test, and allows no interpreter or other help. (Minnesota DVS: New driver under age 18)
Your instruction permit
How old do I have to be for a Minnesota instruction permit?
At least 15. Under 18 you also need the 30 classroom hours of driver education (or 15 hours into a concurrent course) and enrollment in behind-the-wheel lessons, plus a parent's or guardian's approval. (Minnesota Driver's Manual, p. 13)
Who must sit beside me while I drive on a permit?
A licensed driver in the front passenger seat: aged 21 or older if you are under 18, or 18 or older once you are 18. (Minnesota Driver's Manual, p. 13–14)
Can I use a phone while driving on a permit?
No. Under 18, permit and provisional drivers may not use a phone at all, even hands-free, unless calling 911 in an emergency. (Minnesota Driver's Manual, p. 79)
Your provisional license
When can I get a provisional license?
At 16 or older, after six months with your permit and no moving or alcohol violations, driver education finished, a signed driving log and a passed road test. (Minnesota Driver's Manual, p. 14)
What are the night and passenger limits on a provisional license?
For the first six months: no driving from midnight to 5 a.m. (with some exceptions) and only one passenger under 20. For the next six months: up to three passengers under 20. Family members and a parent or guardian riding along are exceptions. (Minnesota Driver's Manual, p. 14–15)
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 3 higher.