Updated for 2026. Practice 30-question scenarios aligned to Tennessee Driver Services, sharpen sign recall, and rehearse mountain-grade and alcohol-law questions before the exam.
Studying the handbook helps - but consistent, state-specific practice makes the real exam feel familiar and easier to handle.
Questions
30
Passing score
80% (24 correct)
Time limit
25 min
Agency
DMV
Free Tennessee practice test
Try 10 real Tennessee permit questions
Tap an answer to check it instantly and read the explanation — exactly how the app works.
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1 What score do you need to pass the Tennessee knowledge test?
Tennessee requires 80% (24 of 30 questions) to pass.
2 For drivers under 21 in Tennessee, the alcohol limit is set very low (0.02%) because:
Tennessee's zero-tolerance law penalizes underage drivers at a BAC as low as 0.02%.
3 On a steep grade in the Smoky Mountains, descending safely means you should:
Use a lower gear so engine braking controls your speed and your brakes don't overheat.
4 What is the shape of a STOP sign?
Only the STOP sign is an octagon. The unique 8-sided shape lets drivers recognize it even when snow or dirt hides the wording.
5 A solid yellow line on your side of the center line means:
A solid yellow line on your side means you may not cross it to pass. A broken yellow line on your side would allow passing when safe.
6 Under good conditions, the minimum safe following distance is about:
Use the 3-second rule: pick a fixed point, and you should pass it at least 3 seconds after the car ahead. Add more time in rain, fog, or at higher speeds.
7 A triangular (downward-pointing) sign tells you to:
A downward triangle is always a YIELD sign. Slow down, be ready to stop, and give the right-of-way to traffic and pedestrians already in the intersection.
8 When a traffic light is flashing red, you must:
A flashing red light has the same meaning as a STOP sign: come to a full stop, then proceed only when it is safe.
9 In fog, the safest headlights to use are:
High beams reflect off fog and reduce visibility. Use low beams (and fog lights if equipped), and slow down.
10 A school bus ahead stops and turns on its flashing red lights on an undivided road. You must:
On an undivided road, traffic in BOTH directions must stop for a school bus with flashing red lights and remain stopped until the lights are turned off.
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This is just a 10-question taster. The Tennessee app has hundreds of questions,
full-length timed exams, a road-sign trainer, and a readiness score that tells you when you're ready to pass.
Tennessee's exam runs 30 questions (24 to pass) covering right-of-way, road signs, and the state's alcohol and zero-tolerance laws. Read the Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual once, then drill in short daily sets so the wording feels familiar.
Teens move through a graduated system starting with the learner permit at 15; the original knowledge test is taken in person at a Driver Services Center.
Tennessee knowledge exam facts you should know
Expect 30 questions; you need 24 correct (80%) to pass.
Alcohol law and zero-tolerance for under-21 drivers are emphasized.
Mountain-grade and wet-road judgment show up given Tennessee's terrain.
The original knowledge test is taken in person at a Driver Services Center.
Minimum age
Tennessee teens can apply for a learner permit at 15 and move to an intermediate license at 16 under the graduated system.
Permit fees
Around $10.50 for the learner permit.
Retaking the knowledge test is generally covered by your application.
The road skills test is part of the intermediate licensing step.
Driver Services Centers accept card, cash, and check. Confirm current fees with Tennessee Driver Services.
Retest rules
You can retake the exam after a short wait. Review missed alcohol-law and sign questions before returning.
Local statutes to flag
Tenn. Code §55-10-401 – Driving under the influence (DUI) thresholds and penalties.
Tenn. Code §55-8-132 – Move over or slow down for stopped emergency vehicles.
Tenn. Code §55-9-603 – Seat belt requirements for drivers and passengers.
Smoky Mountains and storm weather in Tennessee
Tennessee brings Smoky Mountain grades and fog, severe spring thunderstorms, flash flooding, and occasional ice. Driver Services questions like to test downgrade braking, hydroplaning recovery, and wet-road following distance.
Picture your Tennessee testing-day timeline
Book a Driver Services Center appointment, then arrive early with ID, SSN, two residency proofs, and parental consent. Use the wait to review mountain-grade and alcohol-law questions, then check in calm and ready.
Regional practice ideas
Next practice stops after Tennessee
Keep momentum by comparing how nearby agencies phrase questions, documentation, and retest timelines.
Quick answers to the questions Tennessee learners search most before exam day.
What is the alcohol limit for drivers under 21 in Tennessee?
Tennessee has a zero-tolerance law: drivers under 21 with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.02% or higher face license penalties. For drivers 21 and older, the limit is 0.08%.
How many questions are on the Tennessee permit test?
The Tennessee knowledge exam has 30 questions. You must answer at least 24 correctly (80%) to pass.
Can I take the Tennessee permit test online?
No. Tennessee requires you to take the exam in person at a Driver Services Center or participating high school.
What documents should I bring to the Tennessee DMV?
Bring proof of identity, Social Security, two proofs of Tennessee residency, and a minor/teen affidavit (SF-0259) if under 18.
What if I fail the Tennessee permit exam?
You can retest the next business day. Review your score sheet-especially sign meanings and right-of-way rules-before trying again.
Related states
Explore more
Other State DMV Practice Tests
Compare how neighboring states handle permits, testing, and Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security – Driver Services reciprocity.
Every page is aligned with Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security – Driver Services guidelines and refreshed for 2026. Use them to cross-check documentation, scoring, and waiting periods.