Study for the Tennessee DOS Permit Test (2026)

The Tennessee permit test consists of 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 questions correctly to get a passing score (80%). The questions in our sample tests are nearly identical to those on the official exam.

A Tennessee learner's permit is the first step in the state's Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. It allows individuals aged 15 and older to practice driving under specific conditions.

You must complete a series of steps, including passing a vision screening with at least a 20/40 score in one eye and passing a knowledge test based on the Tennessee Driver’s Manual. You will also need a parent or legal guardian to sign a Teenage Affidavit and Cancellation form and provide proof of school attendance/progress.

Yes, permit holders must always be accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older in the front seat. All vehicle occupants must wear seat belts and driving is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

No, the state does not require formal driver's education for new drivers. However, it is encouraged and can help lower insurance premiums. Most courses include 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training.

The test includes questions on traffic signs and signals, safe driving practices, rules of the road, penalties, and the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving abilities.

Study the TN Driver’s Manual and take advantage of online tests. There are also companies that specialize in helping students prepare for their tests (such as Zutobi) that you might want to consider using.

You'll receive your permit and can start practicing supervised driving. To progress to the next licensing phase, ensure you log the required hours and maintain a clean driving record.

Yes, applicants between 15 to 17 years old can take the Tennessee permit test online. There are strict requirements to be eligible and a parent or legal guardian must act as a proctor through the Tennessee Proctor ID App. Applicants must stay on the test window during the test and any navigation away from the test window will result in automatic test failure. The test can be taken up to two times, with a 24-hour wait period for retakes. If you fail two times, you will need to take it in person at the DOS.

Zutobi is the most popular test prep app in the U.S., with up-to-date Tennessee practice tests, gamified lessons, and a concise driver’s manual to help you prepare effectively. Our approach makes learning efficient and fun, giving you the best chance to pass your permit test on the first try.

The second phase of the GDL program is an intermediate restricted license, which allows you to drive unsupervised with certain restrictions. To apply, you must be at least 16, have held your permit for at least 180 days, logged 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night). Once you’ve completed all requirements, you can take the road skills test.

You must log at least 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night).

This license is the third phase in the GDL program, available to drivers who are at least 17 years old and have held an intermediate restricted license for 12 months without accumulating more than six points on their driving record. Once you turn 18, you can apply for your full under-21 driver’s license.