What’s on the Missouri permit test?

The Missouri permit test runs 25 questions. Passing takes 80%, which works out to about 20 correct answers. Topics span the usual material - signs, signals, right of way, alcohol and drug rules - plus the Missouri-specific items the state handbook adds. Missouri tests through Highway Patrol Examination Stations, not the DOR’s license offices.

The format is straightforward - most items test recall (sign meaning, right-of-way order, posted limits), a few test judgment in everyday driving scenarios.

If you study generic DMV practice, you’ll be missing the Missouri-specific section the test draws from. The handbook has rules unique to Missouri; practicing on Missouri-specific questions is the fix.

Sample questions (free, no signup)

Here are 6 practice questions in the Missouri format. Tap each to reveal the answer and the explanation. Want unlimited? Get the app.

Question 1: At what age can you apply for a full under-21 driver license in Missouri?

• 19 years old
• 17 years old
• 18 years old

Correct answer: 18 years old

Why: In Missouri, you are eligible for a full under-21 driver license at age 18, provided you meet all other requirements including having a valid intermediate license and no violations in the past 12 months.

💡 Memory tip: 18 years = full under-21 license; no earlier.

Question 2: During the first six months of having an intermediate license, how many passengers under 19 who are not immediate family members can you have?

• No more than three
• No more than two
• No more than one

Correct answer: No more than one

Why: Under Missouri’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) law, during the first six months of holding an intermediate license, you may not have more than one passenger under the age of 19 who is not an immediate family member. This restriction helps reduce distractions for new drivers.

💡 Memory tip: 6 months: 1 under-19 buddy max. Family doesn’t count.

Question 3: What is the maximum distance your vehicle can be parked from the curb during the parallel parking test?

• 12 inches
• 24 inches
• 18 inches

Correct answer: 18 inches

Why: During parallel parking, you must park ‘no more than 18 inches from the curb.’ This same distance requirement also applies when parking on a hill.

💡 Memory tip: 18 inches max from curb. any more and you fail.

Question 4: What is the maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for vehicles that require a Class E license when transporting property for pay?

• 26,000 pounds or less
• 30,000 pounds or less
• 20,000 pounds or less

Correct answer: 26,000 pounds or less

Why: A Class E license is required when you regularly operate a motor vehicle for employment that belongs to another person and is designed to carry freight and merchandise, with the vehicle being 26,000 pounds or less GVWR.

💡 Memory tip: E for Earning: 26,000 lbs GVWR or less when hauling for pay.

Question 5: What age group is covered by Missouri’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) program?

• Ages 15 to 21
• Ages 16 to 21
• Ages 15 to 18

Correct answer: Ages 15 to 18

Why: Missouri’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) program applies to drivers ages 15 to 18, providing a phased approach to full driving privileges for teens.

💡 Memory tip: Missouri GDL: ages 15 to 18. Training wheels for teen drivers.

Question 6: What can cause your license to be suspended even if the offense occurs in another state?

• Renewing your registration late
• Failing to appear in court or pay traffic tickets
• Getting a parking ticket

Correct answer: Failing to appear in court or pay traffic tickets

Why: According to Missouri law, your Missouri driver’s license can be suspended for failing to appear in court or pay traffic tickets, even if the offense occurred in another state. Missouri participates in the Driver License Compact, which allows states to share traffic violation information and enforce penalties across state lines.

💡 Memory tip: Court no-show or unpaid tickets = license suspension, even out-of-state.

Missouri-specific rules to know

Eight Missouri rules worth knowing cold. They’re handbook material and they show up on the test regularly.

• License rules - According to the Missouri Driver Manual, to graduate to a full under-21 driver license, you may not have any alcohol-related offenses or traffic convictions within the last 12 months.
• Motorcycles - If you are 16 years old or older, you may apply for a motorcycle instruction permit, but the motorcycle rider training course is not required at this age.
• Driving rule - a For-Hire License (Class E) is required when you receive pay for driving a motor vehicle that transports 14 or fewer passengers, such as a day care center driver.
• Motorcycles - you must have either a Class M motorcycle license or a Motorcycle (M) endorsement on your existing driver’s license in order to legally operate a motorcycle in Missouri.
• Motorcycles - For 15½-year-olds with a motorcycle instruction permit, restrictions include daylight driving only, within a 50-mile radius of home, a motorcycle of no larger than 250 cc, and no passengers.
• License rules - The standard minimum acuity is at least 20/40 with either or both eyes for vision testing when applying for a driver’s license.
• License rules - you may obtain a Full Driver License (Class F) at age 17 after holding an intermediate license for at least 12 months and meeting all other requirements.
• Provisional drivers - Missouri’s Graduated Driver License Law requires all first-time drivers under 18 years old to obtain an instruction permit and complete a period of driving with a licensed driver before getting a…

How to schedule your Missouri permit test

You can typically schedule your Missouri permit test online through the official Missouri DMV / motor-vehicle agency website. Bring proof of identity, residency, and (if under 18) the required parent/guardian documentation. Fees vary by jurisdiction - check your local DMV office for current pricing. Some states require completion of driver’s education before testing.

This page references rules from the Missouri Driver’s Handbook. We are not affiliated with the Missouri DMV.

Studying in a neighboring state?

Each state’s exam is different. If you’re studying for a different state, here are nearby ones: Iowa permit test practice, Illinois permit test practice, Kentucky permit test practice.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Missouri permit test?

The Missouri DMV permit test has 25 questions. You need to answer at least 80% correctly to pass.

What is the passing score for the Missouri permit test?

You need 80% to pass - that’s roughly 20 out of 25 questions correct.

How old do I have to be to take the Missouri permit test?

The minimum age in Missouri is 15. Check your local DMV office for any additional requirements like a parent’s signature or driver’s education enrollment.

Can I retake the Missouri permit test if I fail?

Yes. Most Missouri DMV offices let you retake the test, often after a short waiting period. Some locations charge a small re-test fee. Check your local DMV office for the exact rules.

Is the DMV Ready app good for Missouri?

For Missouri: 25-question practice exams, 80% pass mark, content from the Missouri driver handbook. Same shape as the real test.

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