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New York permit test passing score: how many correct answers?

Updated October 2026

The overall 14/20 score must include at least 2/4 correct road-sign answers.

To pass the DMV written test in New York, you need at least 14 correct answers out of 20 — about 70%. 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. The overall 14/20 score must include at least 2/4 correct road-sign answers.

What happens if you don't pass

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

Practice for the New York test →