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Pennsylvania permit test passing score: how many correct answers?

Updated October 2026

To pass the PennDOT written test in Pennsylvania, you need at least 15 correct answers out of 18 — about 83%. Most written tests do not use negative marking, so it's always worth answering even when you're unsure.

How the score is calculated

Every question is worth one point. A wrong or blank answer counts as zero. Your final score is the total of correct answers. You pass if you meet or exceed 15.

What happens if you don't pass

Retake rules are set by PennDOT and change over time — check the current rule on the PennDOT website. After a failed attempt you will see which topics you got wrong; use that to focus your next study session.

Practice for the Pennsylvania test →