TN Permit Test: 2026 Guide
The Tennessee DOS Knowledge Test has 30 questions, and you need 24 correct answers (80%) to pass. The test fee is $10.50. The questions are based on the Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual. Try 10 free sample questions below, or take the full 30-question Tennessee practice test.
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TN Permit Test at a glance
| Official name | Tennessee DOS Knowledge Test |
|---|---|
| Questions | 30 |
| Pass mark | 24 of 30 correct (80%) |
| Test fee | $10.50 |
| Time | Approx. 30 minutes |
| Official handbook | Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual |
| Free practice test | 30 questions with answers |
Getting Your Learner Permit in Tennessee: Your 4-Step Checklist
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Step 1: Are You Eligible?
- You must be at least 15 years old.
- You must pass a vision screening.
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Step 2: What ID Do I Need?
You'll need a primary proof of identity (like a birth certificate), a Social Security number, and two proofs of Tennessee residency.
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Step 3: How Much Does the Test Cost?
The fee for the learner permit application is $10.50.
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Step 4: Understanding the Test Format
The knowledge test has 30 multiple-choice questions on road signs, traffic laws, and safety rules. To pass, you must answer at least 24 questions correctly (80%).
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Step 5: Learner Permit Rules & Restrictions
While driving with a Learner Permit, you must follow these rules:
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older.
- You may not drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Free Tennessee practice questions
The first 10 questions of Tennessee Practice Test 1. The full practice test has 30 questions.
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1. What should you do while braking hard with ABS in an emergency?
Show answer
Answer: d) Steer around the obstacle.
With ABS, you should use the nonskid feature to steer around the obstacle while braking hard.
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2. How much fuel should you have before starting a significant trip?
Show answer
Answer: a) At least a half tank.
Be sure your vehicle always has at least a half tank of gas before starting any trip of significant length.
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3. How can drivers with a hearing impairment compensate while driving?
Show answer
Answer: c) By relying more on their vision.
Drivers with a hearing impairment can adjust and compensate by relying more on their vision to be a safe driver.
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4. What is the correct hand signal for a left turn while cycling?
Show answer
Answer: b) Left arm extended sideways.
The hand signal for a left turn is extending the left arm out sideways. -
5. What kind of front lighting does Tennessee law require for bicycles at night?
Show answer
Answer: a) A white light visible from at least 500 feet.
Bicycles must be equipped with a front lamp emitting a white light visible from at least 500 feet to the front when used at night.
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6. What information should you provide when calling the number on the Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign at a crossing?
Show answer
Answer: c) The DOT crossing number found on the sign.
You should provide the DOT crossing number found on the ENS sign so the railroad knows exactly which crossing is blocked.
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7. Where are bicyclists generally prohibited from riding?
Show answer
Answer: a) Limited-access highways and expressways.
Bicyclists are prohibited on limited-access highways and expressways.
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8. What documentation must be present in the vehicle if a child is being transported in a medically prescribed modified child restraint device (CRD)?
Show answer
Answer: c) A copy of a doctor's prescription.
If a child uses a modified restraint due to medical necessity, the driver must carry a copy of the doctor's prescription for that specific device in the vehicle at all times.
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9.
What does a sign with a left turn arrow inside a red circle with a slash mean?
Show answer
Answer: a) No Left Turn.
The red circle with a slash indicates prohibition. With a left arrow, it means NO LEFT TURN.
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10.
What color are guide signs on Interstates and Expressways that show destination and distance?
Show answer
Answer: b) Green with white letters.
Guide signs on Interstates and Expressways are green with white letters/numbers.
TN Permit Test: common questions
How many questions are on the TN Permit Test?
The Tennessee DOS Knowledge Test has 30 questions.
How many questions can you miss on the TN Permit Test?
You need 24 of 30 correct (80%), so you can miss up to 6 questions.
How much does the TN Permit Test cost?
The Tennessee test fee is $10.50. Fees change, so confirm the amount with the licensing office before you go.
How long does the TN Permit Test take?
Approx. 30 minutes.
What should I study for the TN Permit Test?
Study the Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual; the test questions are based on it. Then check yourself with a practice test: FlashPath's free Tennessee Practice Test 1 has 30 questions with answers and explanations.
Is the FlashPath Tennessee practice test free?
Yes. Practice Test 1 (30 questions) is free on this site and in the app, with no sign-up. The app has 270 more Tennessee practice questions across Practice Tests 2 to 10; full access is a subscription.
What is the FlashPath Pass Guarantee?
If you have a paid FlashPath subscription and don't pass the TN Permit Test, your next month is free. Email us within 30 days of the test with your store order ID and your result.
Guarantee terms: FlashPath Pass Guarantee.
Tennessee guides
Study for the test
Get your licence
- The Essential Tennessee REAL ID Checklist: What to Bring to Your Appointment
- New to Tennessee? How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver's License in 2026
- The Volunteer State on Wheels: Your 2026 Guide to a Tennessee Driver's License
- Renewing Your Tennessee License in 2026: Online, Mail, and In-Person Guide
- Booking Your Tennessee Driving Test: A 2026 Guide to Scheduling Your Appointment
Road test and rules
- Automatic Fail: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid on the Tennessee Driving Test
- The Ultimate Tennessee Road Test Checklist: Arrive Prepared, Not Surprised
- Tennessee's Teen Driving Laws: A 2026 Guide for Parents and Intermediate Drivers
- The Tennessee Point System Explained: How to Keep Your Driving Record Clean
The FlashPath app
FlashPath (on the App Store as "DMV Permit Written Test 2026") is an iPhone and Android app for the Tennessee DOS Knowledge Test, rated 4.9 from 65 App Store ratings, with 300 Tennessee questions across 10 practice tests, an explanation for every answer, missed-question review, an exam simulator and a Pass Guarantee (another month free if you don't pass).
Free download · ★ 4.9 from 65 App Store ratings
Pass Guarantee Don't pass? Your next month is free.