New York DMV Permit Practice Test 2025

Getting your learner's permit is a crucial step towards driving independence. But, before you can think about a license, you have to pass the permit test. Our New York DMV practice test is specially crafted to help you become familiar with the questions you'll face on the actual DMV test, and they are nearly identical to the questions on the real exam. Our practice test comprises 20 multiple-choice questions, and you'll need to answer 16 out of the 20 questions correctly. The questions cover vital topics such as New York traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving techniques.

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New York's driving laws can be pretty specific, particularly when it comes to urban driving - for example, how to safely share the road with cyclists, speed limits in particular areas, and the special regulations for parking, all of which you'll need to know when taking the learners permit test. Each question comes with a detailed explanation to help you understand the correct answer, ensuring that you're not just memorizing answers but genuinely learning the material. Understanding the "why" behind specific driving laws is crucial for making safe driving decisions when you've got your permit.

Questions

You are driving in New York City and there is no posted speed limit. What’s the standard speed limit?

The default speed limit on roads in cities is often lower than on other roads. NYC has a default speed limit of 25 mph unless otherwise posted.

Is the driver required to wear a seat belt when driving?

The driver, all front-seat passengers, AND all passengers under 16 years old must wear a seat belt at all times. Passengers over 16 years old in the back-seat are not required to wear a seat belt, but it is still strongly recommended that they do.

You see another vehicle that is parked 10 feet from a fire hydrant. Is this permitted?

Parking is prohibited within 15 feet of a fire hydrant unless a licensed driver stays in the vehicle.

The DMV point system is used to punish repeat violators. Your license will be suspended if you accumulate:

A single traffic violation on its own may not be severe enough to require license suspension/revocation, but remember that traffic violations stack up. The limit for suspension is 11 points or more within 18 months.

How often do you have to renew your vehicle registrations?

Registration rules differ in many states. In NYS, registrations for most vehicles (GVWR under 18,000 lbs) are valid for 2 years. The owner of the vehicle is responsible for making the renewal on time.

You are in the middle of an intersection when you hear the siren of an emergency vehicle. What should you do?

If you are in the middle of an intersection when you hear sirens behind you - proceed through the intersection! Once through, move to the right side of the road and stop. Emergency services are there to protect and save lives, so make it as easy as possible for them to pass you in every situation.

Using a hand-held mobile phone for calling or texting:

You may only use a hand-held mobile phone to activate, begin or end a call. If you need to make a call, use a hands-free device! Texting while driving is strictly illegal for all drivers in NYS.

You really want to stop to buy some snacks, but the only free space is next to a ‘NO STOPPING’ sign. Which statement is true?

In the State of New York, a ‘NO STOPPING’ sign means that you’re prohibited from stopping unless to prevent a collision or obey signs, signals, or an officer.

A BAC of 0.08 or higher counts as driving while intoxicated (DWI) and you will face severe consequences if caught. What can happen if you are convicted (1st offence) of DWI?

In NYS, a second offense within 10 years leads to higher fines, increased license penalties and longer jail sentences.

You approach a railroad crossing with flashing red lights and lowered crossing gates. Where must you stop?

Wait for the lights to have stopped flashing AND for the gates to rise completely before proceeding. Never drive under or around a lowering/lowered crossing gate!

Why is it important to regularly check the interior and exterior mirrors?

Checking your mirrors will let you know how traffic moves around your vehicle, but it won’t prevent fatigue or remove the need to check the blind spots.

What does this sign mean?

This sign is usually found at or near bridges, underpasses and tunnels. Large trucks that exceed the highest allowed height will have to take another route.

Why should you stay a safe distance behind when following large vehicles?

By keeping a sufficient following distance you will: allow for the truck driver to see you be able to see the road ahead by looking past on either side of the vehicle

A law enforcement officer signals for you to proceed through a traffic light intersection against a red light. What should you do?

When a law enforcement officer is directing traffic, you must obey the officer irrespective of other signs/signals.

When following a motorcyclist on a road that has poor surface, you should:

Motorcyclists, like bicyclists, may swerve to avoid potholes and bumps in the road. Allow them extra space so they can move about.

What does this sign mean?

This sign informs you that there is a flagger ahead guiding traffic safely through the construction site. Be prepared to obey directions!

What should you be aware of when you see a warning sign?

Warning signs warn you to proceed with caution as there are hazardous conditions ahead. Some examples are road changes, sharp curves, and areas with high animal activity.

In which situations may you need a much longer following distance than normal?

Increase the following distance in bad conditions or whenever it’s hard to see the road ahead. In all conditions, you must maintain a sufficient following distance to the vehicle in front to avoid rear-end collisions.

Which cars are likely in the truck driver’s blind spot?

Trucks have large blind spots - all three cars are most likely in the truck’s blind spot.

Mixing alcohol and drugs:

Mixing medications, drugs or alcohol can be very dangerous. The negative effects are likely to be multiplied and might even be deadly.

The format of our NY permit practice test is similar to the actual DMV test, so you’ll be practicing in a realistic setting with the same types of questions. However, don't make the mistake of just taking multiple practice tests and thinking it will be sufficient to pass the DMV test. To learn properly, you need to read the New York Drivers Handbook in combination with practice tests - or use a comprehensive study tool that covers everything you need to know. Zutobi has a summarized version of the NY driver's manual, in-depth driving videos, and unlimited practice tests, and is the perfect study tool for anyone looking to get their license. Try our free New York practice permit test and see for yourself. You can take it as many times as you like to identify any weak areas and improve your understanding of New York’s driving laws.

How Many Questions Are on the NY Permit Test?

The New York DMV permit test consists of 20 questions, and you must answer at least 14 questions correctly to get a passing score (70%).

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