How Many Questions Can You Miss on the Texas Permit Test?

Getting your learner license (commonly known as a permit) is one of the first steps toward becoming an independent driver. But before you get behind the wheel in Texas, you must pass the Texas permit test. If you’re wondering how many questions you can miss on the Texas permit test and still pass, you’re in the right place!

At SafeWay Driving, we specialize in helping new drivers feel confident, prepared, and ready to succeed. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Texas permit test questions, scoring, tips for passing, and how you can be fully prepared when your big day arrives.

Understanding the Texas Permit Test

Before we dive into how many questions you can miss, let’s first understand what the Texas permit test is all about.

What Is the Texas Permit Test?

The Texas permit test, also called the written knowledge and signs test, is designed to check your understanding of Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must pass this test to earn your learners license, allowing you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car.

The test is based on information from the official Texas Driver Handbook, so it’s a good idea to study it thoroughly before taking the exam. At SafeWay Driving, we recommend using online practice tests or taking your online knowledge test in the comfort of your home. SafeWay Driving offers this option in all of our teen and adult courses.

Why Is It Important?

Passing the Texas permit test isn’t just about memorizing facts; it’s about proving you have the foundational knowledge needed to drive safely. This test ensures that new drivers understand the rules of the road, helping to keep Texas highways and neighborhoods safer for everyone.

How Many Questions Are on the Texas Permit Test?

Let’s get to the numbers: how long is the test, and how much wiggle room do you have if you miss a few questions?

Test Format and Requirements

The Texas permit test consists of 30 multiple-choice questions covering a range of topics, including traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and safe driving practices.

To pass the test, you must answer at least 21 questions correctly, meaning you need a score of 70% or higher. This also means you can miss up to 9 questions and still pass!

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Total Questions: 30

• Questions You Must Get Right: 21

• Maximum Questions You Can Miss: 9

What Happens If You Fail?

Don't stress too much if you don’t pass the first time. In Texas, you’re allowed three attempts to pass the permit test within 90 days or before your application expires, whichever comes first. If you don’t pass after three tries, you’ll need to start the application process over and pay the fee again. So it’s definitely worth taking your preparation seriously the first time around!

What Topics Are Covered on the Texas Permit Test?

Knowing what kinds of questions you’ll face can make studying easier and more effective.

Common Topics Include:

• Road Signs: Recognizing and understanding different signs, from stop signs to warning signs.

• Traffic Laws: Texas rules about speed limits, lane usage, and right-of-way.

• Safe Driving Practices: Proper following distances, handling emergencies, and defensive driving techniques.

• Alcohol and Driving Laws: Understanding the dangers and penalties of driving under the influence.

• Sharing the Road: Learning how to drive safely around bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians.

These questions are designed to test your memory and ability to apply what you’ve learned to real-life driving situations.

Top Tips to Pass the Texas Permit Test the First Time

Passing the Texas permit test doesn’t have to be stressful! With the right approach, you can walk into the DPS office (or log onto your online test) feeling calm and confident.

Study Smart

Start by reading the [Texas Driver Handbook] cover to cover. Highlight important points and take notes. Focus especially on areas like traffic signs and rules of the road, which make up a big portion of the test questions.

Take Practice Tests

Practice tests are a game-changer. They help you get familiar with the types of questions you’ll face and highlight areas where you might need extra studying. At SafeWay Driving, we recommend completing multiple practice tests until you consistently score above 80%.

You can find great practice test resources through SafeWay Driving’s programs or reputable sources.

Don’t Cram

Start studying at least two weeks before your test. Studying daily helps the information stick better than cramming the night before. Plus, you’ll feel more relaxed on test day if you know you’re well prepared.

Focus on Understanding, Not Memorization

Sure, memorizing the answers can help you pass a test, but understanding will help you if you get tricky or unexpected questions. Take the time to really understand why traffic laws and safe driving practices exist. It’ll make you a better, safer driver in the long run!

Can You Take the Permit Test Online?

Good news! In Texas, some drivers, including teens and adults in SafeWay Driving programs, are eligible to take the permit test online and can do so from the comfort of their homes.

How Online Testing Works

If you’re enrolled in a DPS-approved driver education course, like the ones we offer at SafeWay Driving, you can often take your Texas permit test online as part of your coursework. This option can be super convenient, allowing you to complete the test from home at your own pace.

However, if you’re not enrolled in an approved course, you’ll likely need to take the test at your local DPS office. Always check the latest guidelines on the Texas DPS website to see what’s available for your situation.

What if English Isn’t Your First Language?

Texas understands that not everyone taking the permit test speaks or reads English fluently. That’s why the permit test is offered in Spanish. Additionally, you can request an oral exam if reading is difficult for you. Unfortunately, as of 2025, English and Spanish are the only two languages offered, and all exam takers will be required to read signs in English.

Please notify the DPS office in advance if you require special accommodations.

Final Thoughts: Be Ready to Succeed

Passing the Texas permit test is a huge milestone on the road to independence, and with the proper preparation, it’s absolutely within your reach. Remember:

• You must answer at least 21 out of the 30 Texas permit test questions correctly.

• You can miss up to 9 questions and still pass.

• Studying smart, practicing regularly, and staying calm on test day are key to success.

At SafeWay Driving, we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether you’re getting ready for your learners license or preparing for your driving test, we offer the tools, training, and support you need to drive safely and confidently.

Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to learn more about our Texas driver education programs and permit test prep services!