Pennsylvania Permit Test FAQ
Plain-English answers about the Pennsylvania permit test, from the Pennsylvania Driver's Manual. Always check the official guide for the current rules.
The knowledge test
How many questions are on the Pennsylvania permit test?
18 multiple-choice questions. You need at least 15 correct to pass. (Pennsylvania Driver's Manual, p. 5)
What happens if I fail the knowledge test?
You can take it only once a day; you may try again the next business day. Keep your forms to bring back. (Pennsylvania Driver's Manual, p. 5)
Can the test be read to me or taken in another language?
Yes. Written and audio versions are offered in many languages, and voice tests are available on request at all Driver License Centers. (Pennsylvania Driver's Manual, p. 5)
Learner's permit
How old do I have to be to get a learner's permit in Pennsylvania?
16. You can't apply before your 16th birthday, and your health exam can be done up to six months before it. (Pennsylvania Driver's Manual, p. 1)
How long does a Pennsylvania learner's permit last?
One year from the date it's issued. (Pennsylvania Driver's Manual, p. 2)
How many practice hours do I need before the road test?
If you're under 18: at least 65 hours behind the wheel, including 10 at night and 5 in bad weather, and you must have held the permit for six months. (Pennsylvania Driver's Manual, p. 2)
Junior license
When can a junior license holder not drive?
Between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., unless a parent, guardian or adult spouse is along, or with an exception for work or volunteer service. (Pennsylvania Driver's Manual, p. 3)
Points and penalties
What happens at 6 points in Pennsylvania?
The first time, you take a written special point exam; later times bring hearings or suspensions. Drivers under 18 are suspended at 6 points. (Pennsylvania Driver's Manual, p. 79)
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 4 higher.