The Arkansas knowledge (permit) test

By the end of this topic you can

• You can explain how the kiosk test works, including skipping questions.
• You can state how many correct answers you need to pass.
• You can name the chapters of the study guide that matter most.
• You can explain what happens and how long you wait if you fail.
• You can request an oral test if you have a learning difference.

What you need to know and understand

• You need 20 correct answers to pass. The test is widely reported as 25 multiple-choice questions, so check the current format with ASP.
• You may skip up to two questions. Skipped questions go to the end and do not count against you.
• If you reach 20 correct answers before skipped questions come back, you will not have to answer them.
• Each written attempt carries a $5 fee, and there is no limit on the number of attempts charged.
• After failing the knowledge test for a learner's permit, learner's or intermediate license, you must wait five calendar days to retest.
• An oral version read through headphones is available at some sites if you show an IEP, 504 plan or professional evaluation.
• The study guide is also published in Spanish and Vietnamese, and ASP offers an official practice test and a testing app.

What happens at the kiosk

If a word confuses you, raise your hand. For applicants using the learning difference option, the examiner can explain words and break sentences into simpler language.

1. Pass the vision screening and hand over your documents.
2. Confirm your date of birth on the screen and start the exam.
3. Read each question, pick an answer, press Submit Answer, then confirm Yes. Choosing No lets you change it.
4. Use the Skip button if you are unsure. You get two skips.
5. Once you have 20 correct answers you have passed, and any skipped questions do not come back.

Where the questions come from

The study guide is built around Arkansas law first, then general driving. Expect questions on topics Arkansas treats as must-know.

• Arkansas law chapter: seat belts, child seats, move over, school buses and the 20-foot median rule.
• Work zones: doubled fines when workers are present and how to treat flaggers.
• Signals, signs and markings, including railroad crossings and flashing arrows.
• Right of way, four-way stops, roundabouts and parking distances.
• Phone laws by age, impaired driving limits and what to do after a crash.
• Sharing the road with tractor-trailers, bicycles and motorcycles.

If you do not pass

Under the ASP non-commercial testing rules, you must wait five calendar days before trying again, and each new attempt adds another $5. Use the wait to reread the chapters where you struggled. Our free Arkansas permit practice test on this site is a good warm-up, and the deeper guide on the permit test explains the documents and fees.

Common mistakes

• Studying only from practice apps. ASP writes its questions from the official study guide, so read the guide itself.
• Using both skips on the first two hard questions. Save them for questions you truly cannot answer.
• Forgetting glasses or contacts, which can cause you to fail the vision screening first.
• Mixing up the phone rules. Under 18 is no phone at all, 18 to 20 is hands-free only, and texting is banned for everyone.

Test yourself: The Arkansas knowledge (permit) test

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Arkansas Permit Practice Test
• Arkansas Permit Test
• Arkansas Driver’s License Age Waiver Explained