The New Hampshire knowledge (permit) test

By the end of this topic you can

• You can describe the format, length and pass mark of the test.
• You can explain what happens if you get too many questions wrong.
• You can name the languages and audio options available.
• You can plan your study using the New Hampshire Driver's Manual.

What you need to know and understand

• The car (operator) test has 40 multiple-choice questions, each with four answers.
• You have 40 minutes to finish.
• The pass mark is 80%, so more than 8 wrong answers ends the test as a fail.
• Tests are taken on a touch screen. No computer skills are needed.
• An audio version with headphones is available. Ask the representative before you start.
• After a fail you must wait 10 calendar days to retest.
• You must pass the vision and knowledge tests before a road test can be scheduled.

How the test works on the day

You first pass the vision screening, then sit at a touch-screen station. Each question appears with four possible answers and you tap the letter you choose. The questions are drawn at random, so if you have to retake the test you will see a different set.

The computer keeps count. If you go past the allowed number of wrong answers, or run out of time, the test stops automatically. With 40 questions and an 80% pass mark, you can miss up to 8.

Languages and help

• Written and audio formats are offered in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, Farsi and Mandarin Chinese.
• American Sign Language is also available.
• The audio option uses headphones and works for anyone who wants to hear the questions read aloud.

What to study

Questions cover the material in the New Hampshire Driver's Manual: traffic signals, signs and markings, right of way, speed limits, safe following distance, sharing the road, alcohol and drugs, and New Hampshire laws such as the youth operator rules, the hands-free law and clearing snow and ice from your vehicle.

Pay special attention to state numbers you will be asked about, such as the 25-foot stop for a school bus with red lights flashing, the 1:00 am to 4:00 am youth curfew and the headlight rule. Our New Hampshire practice test and written test guide are good next steps once you have read the manual.

Common mistakes

• Skimming the manual and relying on general knowledge. Several New Hampshire rules differ from other states.
• Rushing. You have 40 minutes, which is about a minute per question.
• Forgetting that the test ends early after 9 wrong answers. Read every option before tapping.
• Booking the road test first. You cannot schedule it until the knowledge test is passed.

Test yourself: The New Hampshire knowledge (permit) test

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

Go deeper

• New Hampshire Permit Practice Test
• New Hampshire Learner’s Permit? How Teen Practice Driving Works
• Learning to Drive in New Hampshire