District of Columbia Permit Practice Test (2026)
Reviewed by the DriveCar editorial team. Last updated .
The DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) handles driver licensing in Washington, DC. DC uses a Graduated License (GRAD) program for drivers under 21, which means most new drivers start with a learner permit. The DC DMV publishes the official Automobile Driver Manual and offers a virtual knowledge test option for new drivers.
Sourced from the official District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) District of Columbia driver manual.
District of Columbia permit test at a glance
Sources: DC DMV Automobile Driver Manual DC DMV Knowledge Tests DC DMV Learner Permits and Provisional Licenses DC DMV GRAD License Program
How to pass the District of Columbia permit test
Read the DC DMV Automobile Driver Manual end to end. Focus on DC-specific rules like the strict pedestrian right-of-way and bike lane laws. Take practice tests until you can score 90% or higher. The pass score is 80% for adults 21+ and 80% (24 of 30) for drivers in the GRAD program. Bring valid ID and the test fee on test day.
Retake policy
If you fail, you must wait three calendar days and return on the fourth day to retake the knowledge test. After six failures in one year, you must wait one full year from your first failed attempt to try again. A test fee applies whether you pass or fail.
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District of Columbia driver-test resources
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District of Columbia DMV FAQ
What is the minimum age for a DC learner permit?
You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a DC learner permit.
How many questions are on the DC DMV knowledge test?
Applicants 21 and older take a 25-question test and need 20 correct (80%). GRAD program applicants 16 to 20 take a 30-question test and need 24 correct (80%).
How much does a DC learner permit cost?
The learner permit fee is $20. The knowledge test fee is $10. A full driver license is $47 for an 8-year term.
Can I take the DC DMV knowledge test at home?
Yes. DC DMV offers a virtual knowledge test option. You can also take the test in person at a DC DMV Service Center.
What happens if I fail the DC permit test?
You must wait three calendar days and return on the fourth day. After six failures in one year, you must wait one full year from your first attempt.