The Arizona knowledge (permit) test
The knowledge test, often called the written or permit test, checks that you understand Arizona traffic laws, signs and safe driving before you get behind the wheel. You must pass it to get an instruction permit.
ADOT tells applicants to study the Arizona Driver License Manual before the test, so the manual is your main study tool.
By the end of this topic you can
- You can describe the format and pass mark of the test.
- You can choose where to take the test.
- You can plan your study around the manual's main topics.
- You can use official practice tests to check you are ready.
What you need to know and understand
- The test has 30 multiple-choice questions.
- You need a score of 80% to pass, which means at least 24 correct answers.
- ADOT tells applicants to study the Arizona Driver License Manual and take its online practice tests.
- Teens under 18 can take the test at home, supervised by a parent or guardian, through the parent's AZ MVD Now account or a participating driving school.
- In an MVD office the test is taken on a touch screen, and an audio version is available.
- ADOT publishes free online practice tests.
- The test is offered in several languages, including Spanish, and a verbal test can be arranged by appointment in some situations.
What the test covers
Expect questions on the topics the manual spends most time on. Studying each one with the manual open is far better than memorizing answers.
- Traffic signs, signals and pavement markings
- Right of way at intersections, roundabouts and crosswalks
- Speed limits, school zones and school buses
- Alcohol, drugs and Arizona's DUI laws
- Safe driving: following distance, lane changes, night driving and bad weather such as dust storms
- Rules for new drivers, insurance and what to do after a crash
At home or in an office
The at-home option suits most teens: a parent or guardian logs in, supervises the whole test and confirms the result. Adults, and teens who prefer it, can test in an MVD office or an Authorized Third Party office. Either way, the permit itself is only issued after a vision check and photo in an office.
A study plan that works
- Read the manual through once without trying to memorize it.
- Go back over signs, right of way and DUI rules, which carry many questions.
- Take an ADOT practice test and write down every question you miss.
- Look up each missed answer in the manual and read that whole section.
- Take a different practice test and aim for well above 24 out of 30 before the real test.
Common mistakes
- Relying only on practice tests. The real test uses different questions, so learn the reasons from the manual.
- Rushing. Read every option before choosing, as two may look similar.
- Mixing up rules from other states found online. Learn Arizona's numbers from the Arizona manual.
- Booking the test before you are 15 years and 6 months old or without the documents needed for the permit.
Test yourself: The Arizona knowledge (permit) test
Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.
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Sources: Permit Test (at Home or in an Office), ADOT MVD (azdot.gov); Practice Tests, ADOT MVD (azdot.gov); Arizona Driver License Manual and Customer Service Guide, ADOT MVD. Independent guide, not affiliated with any licensing agency. Always check the latest official rules with the Arizona licensing agency.