The District of Columbia knowledge (permit) test

By the end of this topic you can

• You can choose the right place and way to take the DC knowledge test.
• You can state the time limit for the GRAD (under 21) test.
• You can explain what happens if you fail and how long to wait.
• You can list behavior that counts as cheating.
• You can build a study plan using the official manual and practice test.

What you need to know and understand

• The test covers traffic laws, road signs and driving safety rules.
• The GRAD or learner permit test has a 75-minute time limit. Going over the limit counts as a fail.
• The fee is $10 at a DC DMV service center, $39.95 at a Test Proctoring Center and $49.95 for a virtual test. You pay whether you pass or fail.
• Virtual testing is available for the standard test and the GRAD test for ages 16 to 20.
• After a fail you must wait three full calendar days before retesting.
• Six fails within 12 months means you cannot take a seventh test until 12 months after the first fail.
• Using a phone, smartwatch, notes or talking during the test counts as cheating: you fail and must wait 60 days.

Three ways to sit the test

Service centers offer the test in many languages, including Spanish, Amharic, French, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese, and an audio-assisted version for people who need help reading. DC DMV added more languages in December 2025.

• DC DMV service center: first come, first served, no appointment needed.
• Test Proctoring Center: by appointment, at a higher fee.
• Virtual test from home: by appointment, with results given to you straight away by a representative.

Questions and pass mark

DC DMV's official pages do not publish the number of questions or the exact pass mark, and figures quoted on commercial practice sites do not always agree. Ask at the service center or check with DC DMV before your test rather than relying on an unofficial number. Whatever the count, aim to score well above the line on practice tests before you book.

A study plan that works

1. Download the DC DMV automobile driver manual. Printed copies are no longer handed out.
2. Read one section a day and make short notes on numbers such as speed limits and parking distances.
3. Take the free DC DMV online practice test. It uses sample questions, not real test questions.
4. Use our DC permit practice test to find weak areas, then reread those parts of the manual.
5. Book or walk in only when you are consistently passing practice tests with room to spare.

Common mistakes

• Rushing. The 75-minute limit for GRAD applicants is generous, but running over it is an automatic fail.
• Leaving a smartwatch on. Wearable devices count as cheating and bring a 60-day wait.
• Booking a virtual retest without a new appointment. Each virtual or third-party attempt needs its own booking.
• Studying only from practice apps. The real test is based on the official manual, so read it.

Test yourself: The District of Columbia knowledge (permit) test

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

Go deeper

• DC Permit Practice Test
• DC DMV Permit Test
• Learning to Drive in Washington DC