What’s on the Tennessee permit test?

Expect 30 multiple-choice questions on the Tennessee written test. You need 80% correct to pass - roughly 24 right. The question pool draws from the official Tennessee handbook: signs, signals, right of way, safe-driving practices, and a few rules unique to Tennessee. Tennessee’s Department of Safety runs the test (not a DMV per se); 30 questions and 80% pass.

Most items are recall - sign meanings, right of way at common intersections, posted-speed rules. The rest are scenario questions: a situation, three options, you pick the safest one.

Worth flagging: Tennessee has handbook rules that other states don’t share. If your prep app is showing you a one-size-fits-all 25-question template, it’s not preparing you for the Tennessee test.

Sample questions (free, no signup)

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

Question 1: What type of testing is required as part of the driver examination process?

• Physical fitness test
• Vision screening
• Hearing test

Correct answer: Vision screening

Why: Vision screening is a required component of the driver examination process to ensure drivers can safely see road conditions, signs, and other vehicles.

💡 Memory tip: No see, no key: vision screening is required.

Question 2: When must you stop for railroad crossings according to Tennessee law?

• When specifically required by the stopping law for railroad crossings
• Only when you see a train approaching
• Every time you approach any railroad crossing

Correct answer: When specifically required by the stopping law for railroad crossings

Why: A specific section on ‘Stopping for Railroad Crossings’ which outlines the legal requirements for when drivers must stop at railroad crossings.

💡 Memory tip: Law over guesswork: ‘Stopping for Railroad Crossings’. Stop only when required.

Question 3: What special rules apply to children in vehicles in Tennessee?

• Only adult safety belt rules apply
• Children cannot ride in vehicles
• Child safety restraint rules

Correct answer: Child safety restraint rules

Why: ‘Child Safety Restraint Rules’ under Tennessee Safety Belt Laws, indicating special requirements for children.

💡 Memory tip: Child safety restraints are a must; adults don’t cover kids.

Question 4: What does Class D with F endorsement allow a driver to do in Tennessee?

• Transport hazardous materials
• Operate for-hire vehicles
• Drive commercial trucks

Correct answer: Operate for-hire vehicles

Why: According to the Table of Contents, Class D With F is specifically described as the ‘For-Hire Endorsement,’ indicating it allows drivers to operate vehicles for commercial passenger transportation.

💡 Memory tip: Class D with F = For-Hire vehicles; think taxi and rideshare.

Question 5: In Tennessee, what is prohibited while driving?

• Texting while driving
• Listening to music
• Talking to passengers

Correct answer: Texting while driving

Why: ‘Texting While Driving Prohibited’ as a safety requirement in Tennessee.

💡 Memory tip: Texting while driving = a big NO in Tennessee!

Question 6: According to the Tennessee manual, what type of license is available for drivers under 18?

• Full unrestricted licenses
• Intermediate Licenses with Graduated License Procedures
• Temporary permits only

Correct answer: Intermediate Licenses with Graduated License Procedures

Why: ‘Intermediate Licenses For Drivers Under 18 - Graduated License Procedures’ as a separate section, indicating special licensing requirements for underage drivers.

💡 Memory tip: Under 18? Tennessee = Intermediate Licenses + Graduated License Procedures.

Tennessee-specific rules to know

A short Tennessee cheat sheet - eight rules drawn from the official handbook content. Worth a re-read the night before.

• Driving rule - With a beginner’s permit you may drive from 6 a.m.
• Driving rule - If you have questions during a traffic stop, you should respectfully ask the officer to clarify.
• Driving rule - If you miss your exit, you should take the next one.
• Distracted driving - Loose objects must be removed from the vehicle before the road test because they pose a risk of injury or distraction during the driving evaluation.
• Signals - You should consider pulling off the roadway, activating your emergency signal lights, and waiting until weather improves.
• Driving rule - When people are boarding or leaving a streetcar or trolley where there is no safety zone, you must stop behind the vehicle’s nearest door or vehicle platform and wait until the people have reached…
• Pedestrians - You must stop before the stop line, crosswalk, stop sign, or signal.
• Driving rule - Intermediate license holders may not transport more than one passenger under the age of 18 who is not an immediate family member unless also accompanied by a licensed driver 18 years of age or older.

How to schedule your Tennessee permit test

You can typically schedule your Tennessee permit test online through the official Tennessee 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 Tennessee Driver’s Handbook. We are not affiliated with the Tennessee DMV.

Studying in a neighboring state?

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

Before test day, read the full Tennessee permit test guide for 2026 - it covers what the knowledge test includes, the Tennessee rules that trip people up, and the license steps after you pass.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Tennessee permit test?

The Tennessee DMV permit test has 30 questions. You need to answer at least 80% correctly to pass.

What is the passing score for the Tennessee permit test?

You need 80% to pass - that’s roughly 24 out of 30 questions correct.

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

The minimum age in Tennessee 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 Tennessee permit test if I fail?

Yes. Most Tennessee 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 Tennessee?

Yes - Tennessee is fully supported. The app’s practice exams use the Tennessee format (30 questions, 80% pass), and questions are filtered to Tennessee-relevant material from the state handbook.

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