Free District of Columbia permit practice tests with 72 exam-style questions, a timed mock exam sized to the real test, flashcards, a road-sign quiz, and an on-device AI tutor grounded in the official District of Columbia driver handbook. The official District of Columbia written knowledge test has 25 questions and requires 80% to pass.
About the District of Columbia written test
Knowledge (written) test: 25 multiple-choice questions; passing score is 20 correct (80%), drawn from the DC driver manual. Knowledge test fee is about $10.
Vision screening: Required at application.
Road (skills) test: Required for the provisional license; evaluates safe vehicle operation, turn-signal use, parallel parking, and other maneuvers. There is no additional fee to use the DMV road-test vehicle.
Getting licensed in District of Columbia
Learner Permit: Available at age 16. Applicant must pass a vision screening and knowledge test, provide proof of identity/residency/eligibility, and (under 18) have parental consent plus enrollment in/completion of an approved driver education course. Permit holders may drive only between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., accompanied by a licensed driver age 21+ in the front passenger seat. The permit is held while the driver works toward the provisional license.
Provisional License (Stage 2): Available once the driver has held the learner permit for at least 6 months, completed at least 40 hours of supervised driving (certified on the DC DMV form, supervised by a licensed driver 21+), and is at least 16 years 6 months old. The road skills test is required. Provisional drivers face nighttime and passenger restrictions.
Full License (with conditions / unrestricted): Available at age 17 after holding the provisional license at least 6 months and certifying at least 10 hours of night driving (supervised by a licensed driver 21+).
District of Columbia written-test FAQ
What is the minimum age for a DC learner permit?
16.
How many hours of supervised driving are required before the provisional license?
40 hours.
How long must you hold the learner permit before the provisional license?
At least 6 months.
What hours may a learner permit holder drive?
6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
How many questions are on the knowledge test, and what score passes?
25 questions; 20 correct (80%).
What is the BAC limit for drivers 21 and over?
0.08%.
What is the District's policy for drivers under 21?
Zero tolerance (any measurable alcohol can support a charge).
May you hold your phone while driving in DC?
No; holding a device is prohibited (hands-free is allowed).