Written Driver's Test: Things To Know To Be Fully Prepared
If you want to get your driver's license, then you have got to pass the written driver's test. This test is required for all new drivers nationwide and is designed to test your knowledge and make sure you know enough about the concepts of driving to safely operate a vehicle. You will want to go to the DMV office fully prepared for the test, so we are sharing everything you need to know about the written driver's test below.
The Written Driver's Test Process
Of course, the process for the written driver's test will vary from state to state. However, here are some general guidelines to help you know what to expect:
- Depending on your state's appointment process, you may need to schedule an appointment for this exam. If it is not required, you should still try and make an appointment. This can help calm your nerves and not have you sitting in the waiting room for your number to be called.
- If you schedule an appointment, try and show up 10-15 minutes early for your appointment. This gives you the time to find the testing location, but also gives you a few minutes to study one last time before taking the test.
- Depending on your state's test, you will have at least 18 multiple choice questions to answer.
- Most states require you to get at least an 80% score in order to pass.
Types Of Questions On The Written Driver's Test
The number of questions on the written driver's test is up to each individual state. However, the questions on the test must come from 20 general areas, according to federal regulations. These areas include topics like proper use of the vehicle's safety system, alcohol and drug use while driving, speed, communication, space management and extreme driving conditions.
For the written driver's test, the following are some common question types on the exam:
- How much distance should you keep between your vehicle and...? These distance questions are very specific, so you will need to remember exact measurements to get these questions correct.
- Who has the right-of-way when...? Know your right-of-way rules!
- What does this traffic sign mean? Make sure you know your traffic signs, as well as common vehicle warning lights.
Passing Your Written Driver's Test
How do you pass the written driver's test at the DMV? A good start would definitely be to take a Driver's Ed course. These courses will provide you with all the information you need to pass your driving test. They are available online to take and Coastline Academy offers them in certain states.
Each state's DMV website provides great study materials. Most states have a driver's handbook, which will give you tips on what to study for your specific state's exam. Many DMV websites will also offer practice exams to help you prepare for the test. Coastline Academy also offers DMV practice tests.
Some other tips to keep in mind on testing day:
- Get a good night's sleep, as you will want to be as refreshed as possible on testing day.
- Read the questions and try to think of the answer before reading the multiple choice options. This can help you in falling for some of the sneaky tactics test writers use with oddly-worded questions and answers.
- If you are unsure of the answer to a question, try eliminating the answers you know are wrong. This will give you fewer options to choose from when making a guess.
- Try to relax!
That's it! You now have everything you need to know about the written driver's test and you are ready to kick some butt on the exam. If you are just getting started and haven't signed up for your driver's ed course, then sign up today and start learning!
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.
About the Author
Nigel Tunnacliffe is the co-Founder and CEO of Coastline Academy, the largest driving school in the country, on a mission to eradicate car crashes. An experienced founder and technology executive, Nigel and his team are shaking up the automotive industry by taking a technology-centric approach to learning and driver safety. Having served over 100,000 driving students across 500+ cities, Coastline was recently named the 6th fastest-growing education company in America by Inc. Magazine. Nigel is a frequent podcast guest and quoted driving education expert for major publications such as Yahoo!, GOBankingRates, and MSN.