How To Pass Your Driving Test (2026)
There are two parts of a driving test that you must pass before obtaining a license: a written test and a road test. Learning to pass your driving test means finding a balance between these two critical tasks.
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Published Insurance Expert
Melanie Musson is the fourth generation in her family to work in the insurance industry. She grew up with insurance talk as part of her everyday conversation and has studied to gain an in-depth knowledge of state-specific insurance laws and dynamics as well as a broad understanding of how insurance fits into every person’s life, from budgets to coverage levels. Through her years working in th...
Melanie Musson
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Chris is the founder of Abrams Insurance Solutions and Marcan Insurance, which provide personal financial analysis and planning services for families and small businesses across the U.S. His companies represent nearly 100 of the top-rated insurance companies. Chris has been a licensed insurance agent since 2009 and has active insurance licenses in all 50 U.S. states and D.C. Chris works tireles...
Chris Abrams
Updated March 2025
- You must pass two driving test portions before you receive your driver’s license
- 44% of people fail the driving test because they didn’t pass the written portion
- Driving too slow and too fast are some of the most common ways to fail your driving test automatically
Would you like to learn how to pass your driving test? Some driving tasks may be more challenging than others to master. Whether it’s your first time taking the driving test or you’re retaking it, we can provide you with the information you need to pass your driving test and receive a driver’s license.
If you want to succeed in your upcoming driving test, read this article to learn everything you need to know to pass with flying colors.
Learn How to Pass Your Driving Test
The Department of Motor Vehicles — also known as the DMV — ensures that new drivers fully understand traffic laws and have good driving skills. The DMV’s test consists of a written test and a road test. These will vary by state.
According to CBS News, 44% of aspiring drivers don’t receive a passing score on the written driving test the first time. the best way to pass that test is to take as many practice tests as you can before you go. There are many such tests available online.
While the written test is generally the same for most new drivers in any given state, your road test varies based on the location of your test.
Most new drivers must perform specific everyday driving tasks to successfully earn their driver’s license. Some of those tasks may include:
- Proper signaling and lane changing
- Parallel parking
- A three-point turn (also known as a Y turn or K turn)
- Reversing a vehicle
Mastering these essential driving skills can increase your chances of passing and prepare you for when you start driving.
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Top Four Driving Test Tips for New Drivers
When it comes to driving, practice makes perfect. However, your driving instructor isn’t looking for perfection. You will receive points based on how well you can complete specific driving tasks, and points get deducted based on your inability to complete particular tasks according to the standards.
Some driving skills are more important to focus on than others, and if you want to increase your likelihood of passing the exam, there are driving secrets that can help simplify the process.
1 — Adjust your car seat for an optimal drive. Before you begin the driving test, ensure you are comfortable with your vehicle and make adjustments for a better drive. For example, your driving instructor may ask you to check your blind spot, but it can be hard to get a good view if your seat is too far back.
This minor factor could result in a failing test or a car accident. Get familiar with how your vehicle works, where the levers are to elevate and recline your seat, and how to adjust yourself to get an optimal view of the road.
2 — Keep both hands on the steering wheel. To remember proper hand placements while driving, try to imagine the steering wheel as a clock. You should place one hand on the steering wheel at 9 o’clock and the other in the 3 o’clock position.
3 — Familiarize yourself with the area. Practicing near the DMV beforehand can give you a glimpse of your route on the test day. You can also learn about speed limits, traffic lights, and more to increase your comfort level.
4 — Exaggerate your head movement during mirror checks. Your driving instructor will be watching carefully to ensure you perform a thorough mirror check during your driving test. You can exaggerate your head movement slightly when checking mirrors to ensure they see you.
The guidelines for how often you need to scan your mirrors typically vary by your driving instructor and location. However, they will check to ensure you’re paying attention to your vehicle’s mirrors and what’s ahead.
Your Driving Test Checklist
Passing your driving test is not only about how well you can drive or answering questions about traffic laws. It is also about how well you can read signs and follow directions.
Before you begin your driving test, you must provide a series of qualifications and paperwork. Failure to follow these instructions may result in a failed or rescheduled test.
- Bring your learner’s permit. Most states require proof of a learner’s permit before you can apply for a driver’s license.
- Get plenty of behind-the-wheel training. Every state has different requirements for how many hours of behind-the-wheel training you need before receiving a license.
- Complete a drug/alcohol safe driver’s program. Some states require new drivers to complete a course explaining the dangers of driving under the influence.
- Ensure your vehicle meets DMV requirements. The Department of Motor Vehicles will inform you of the vehicle qualifications you must meet before your driving test begins. If it doesn’t meet the standards, you can’t take the test.
Remembering to fulfill these crucial tasks before the test can increase your chances of passing the driving test.
What if I fail the driving test?
If you took the driving test and passed, congratulations. However, if you did not pass your driving test, you are not alone. More than half of aspiring drivers fail the road test when taking it for the first time. Using practice tests on the DMV website can increase your chances of passing the written portion.
Anything can happen when you’re on the road. Since each state conducts its driving tests differently, the success rate of the driving portion can be tricky to predict.
Percentage of Driving Test Failures Per State| State | Failure Percentage |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 55% fail rate |
| Alaska | 50% fail rate |
| Arizona | 60% fail rate |
| Arkansas | 46.6% fail rate |
| California | 55% fail rate |
| Colorado | 31.8% fail rate |
| Connecticut | 30% fail rate |
| Florida | 58.1% fail rate |
| Idaho | 35% fail rate |
| Illinois | 55% fail rate |
| Iowa | 20% fail rate |
| Kentucky | 30% fail rate |
| Maine | 35% fail rate |
| Maryland | 52.7% fail rate |
| Massachusetts | 20% fail rate |
| Minnesota | 46% fail rate |
| Mississippi | 60% fail rate |
| Missouri | 61.4% fail rate |
| Nebraska | 50% fail rate |
| Nevada | 41.6% fail rate |
| New Hampshire | 25% fail rate |
| New Mexico | 20% fail rate |
| New York | 22.5% fail rate |
| Oregon | 46% fail rate |
| Pennsylvania | 55% fail rate |
| Tennessee | 50% fail rate |
| Utah | Open book written test |
| Vermont | 30% fail rate |
| Washington | 50% fail rate |
| Wisconsin | 28.3% fail rate |
Don’t automatically assume that you won’t pass the test since the failure rate is high in your state.
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What are the most common automatic fails on driving tests?
Learning from your mistakes is one thing, but you can also learn from the mistakes of others to get better at driving. When taking your driving test, be mindful of common errors that typically result in an automatic failure.
- Driving too slow. Typically, most states expect you to abide by the posted speed limit.
- Driving too fast. You may receive an automatic fail if you show your driving instructor that you cannot abide by the speed limit.
- Distracted driving. The road requires your undivided attention while driving.
Don’t fall into these common first-time driving pitfalls, and you’ll be on your way to a passing score.
The Bottom Line: How can you pass your driving test?
The freedom to drive where and when you want is approaching sooner than you think. It is possible to pass your driving test the first time, but it will require a lot of practicing and studying.
While the most challenging part for most individuals is the written test, some tests stop before they can begin because paperwork is missing or the DMV’s requirements have not been met.
If you follow this guide, there’s a chance you can pass your driving test.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times can I take the driving test?
The number of times you can take the driving test depends on your local regulations. Generally, there may be a limit on the number of attempts allowed within a specific time frame. Once you fail the test, you’ll typically need to wait a designated period before retaking it. Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent authority for the specific rules in your area.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
If you fail the driving test, you will typically need to reschedule and retake the exam. The specific rules may vary depending on your location, but you will likely need to wait a certain period before being allowed to retake the test. Use the experience as an opportunity to identify your weaknesses and practice the areas where you struggled. Consulting with a professional driving instructor can also provide valuable guidance to help you improve.
Are there any additional resources or study materials I can use to prepare for my driving test?
Yes, there are several additional resources and study materials that can help you prepare for your driving test. These may include online practice tests, driver’s education courses, smartphone apps for learning and practicing driving skills, and videos demonstrating proper driving techniques. Additionally, you can consult your local DMV or transportation department’s website for specific information and resources relevant to your jurisdiction.
Is it necessary to take driving lessons before the test?
While it may not be mandatory in all jurisdictions, taking driving lessons with a qualified instructor is highly recommended. Professional instruction can help you develop proper driving techniques, build confidence, and ensure you are well-prepared for the driving test. In some cases, completing a certain number of driving lessons may be a requirement to take the test.
What should I expect during the driving test?
During the driving test, a certified examiner will evaluate your ability to safely operate a vehicle. The examiner will assess your skills in areas such as starting and stopping, turning, changing lanes, parallel parking, obeying traffic signs and signals, and demonstrating proper defensive driving techniques. The exact test format and evaluation criteria may vary depending on your jurisdiction.
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