The Manitoba knowledge test

By the end of this topic you can

• You can describe how the knowledge test is delivered and timed.
• You can name the three subject areas it covers.
• You can explain how to book a test and what happens if you fail.
• You can list the official study materials MPI recommends.

What you need to know and understand

• The test is taken on a computer and has a 30-minute time limit.
• It is not open book, and phones and electronic devices are not allowed in the test area.
• MPI lists the cost of a knowledge test as $12 (check current charges before you pay).
• It is offered in English and French plus 28 other languages, with an audio option.
• If you are in the GDL program and fail, you must wait seven days before trying again.
• Tests are by appointment through an Autopac agent or online, with some walk-in testing at MPI's Gateway Service Centre in Winnipeg.

What the test covers

Questions come from the material in MPI's Driver's Handbook. Expect three broad areas: the laws you must obey, safe driving habits, and what signs, signals and pavement markings mean. MPI does not set out the number of questions or the pass mark in its handbook, so confirm these with MPI or your Autopac agent when you book rather than relying on unofficial practice sites.

• Traffic laws: right-of-way, speed limits, school buses, emergency vehicles, railway crossings.
• Safe driving practices: following distance, night and winter driving, sharing the road.
• Road signs: shapes, colours, warning, regulatory and construction signs, and traffic signals.

Booking and test day

If you need to cancel or move your appointment, do it at least 24 hours ahead, or you lose the fee.

1. Register as an MPI customer and prove your identity.
2. Pay for the test at an Autopac agent or online and choose a time. MPI allows booking up to 60 days ahead.
3. Say if you want a language other than English, or the audio option.
4. Check in 15 minutes early with your ID. Leave your phone outside the test area.
5. Answer the questions on the computer within 30 minutes.

If it does not go your way

Drivers in the GDL program wait seven days before another attempt, and only one knowledge test of the same class can be taken per day. Use the week to reread the handbook chapters you found hardest and try MPI's free online Driving Quizzes.

Common mistakes

• Studying only road signs. Laws and safe practices are also tested.
• Using an unofficial app as your only source. Base your study on MPI's handbook, which is what the test is drawn from.
• Arriving late or without ID. Check in 15 minutes early.
• Missing the 24-hour cancellation deadline and losing your fee.

Test yourself: The Manitoba knowledge test

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

Go deeper

• MPI Knowledge Test
• How to Get a Driver’s Licence in Manitoba
• Manitoba Driver Safety Rating