2026 New York State Permit Test

The "Big 5" Things to Know (Teen & Parent)The "14/20" Rule: You must answer 14 out of 20 questions correctly. Crucially, you must get at least 2 out of 4 road sign questions right, or you fail automatically, even if you get everything else perfect.Parental Consent: If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the consent section of your MV-44 application.

The 50-Hour Requirement: Before you can take a road test, your parent must sign form MV-262, certifying you completed 50 hours of practice, including 15 hours at night and 10 hours in moderate-to-heavy traffic.NYC Restrictions: If you are under 18 and driving in New York City with a permit, the vehicle must have dual brakes (usually a Driver's Ed vehicle) unless your supervising driver is a parent or guardian.Electronic Device Ban: For 2026, NY law is zero-tolerance for teens. Using a phone—even hands-free—is a "Serious Violation" that can result in an immediate 60-day suspension of your junior permit.📝 10 Must-Know Questions for Teens & Parents (2026)QuestionAnswer (The "Why")1. Who can supervise a permit holder?A licensed driver 21 or older. In NYC, it must be a parent/guardian or driving instructor.

2. What is the passenger limit for a teen?Only one passenger under 21 unless they are immediate family or the parent is in the car.
3. Can you drive in a park or on a bridge in NYC?No. Junior permit holders are prohibited from NYC parks and Tri-Borough Bridge/Tunnel Authority crossings.
4. When can a 17-year-old get a senior license?After passing the road test and completing a certified Driver's Ed course (Form MV-285).
5. What happens if a teen gets a speeding ticket?A junior permit/license will be suspended for 60 days for a single speeding conviction.
6. What color are construction warning signs?Orange. Expect questions on "Work Zone" safety and doubled fines.
7. How do you yield to a pedestrian with a cane?You must stop and yield to any pedestrian with a white cane or guide dog, regardless of the light.
8. What is the "Zero Tolerance" BAC?For drivers under 21, a BAC of 0.02% (virtually any alcohol) results in immediate suspension.
9. What do you do at a steady yellow light?Clear the intersection if you're in it; otherwise, stop if you can do so safely.
10. Where should your hands be on the wheel?The 2026 manual recommends
9 and 3 or 8 and 4 to avoid injury from airbags.📂 Parent Checklist:
The Paperwork TrailAvoid a "wasted trip" to the DMV by ensuring you have these 2026 requirements ready:Proof of Identity (6 Points): For teens without a high-point ID, a parent can sign form MV-45 to verify their identity if the parent has a valid NY license.Social Security Card: Must be the original, not a copy.MV-262 (Supervised Driving Log): Don't wait until the day of the road test to fill this out. Keep a log of your 50 hours as you go.