Failed the New York permit test: when you can retake it
Failing the written test is common and fixable. Here is what New York says about retaking it, and a plan for the next attempt.
- How soon you can retake
- No waiting period published for in-office tests; online test: try again after at least 6 hours
- Attempts
- Not stated on the official page — ask your DMV office.
- Retest fee
- The $10 application fee covers two knowledge test attempts; a new $10 application fee is needed for a third
- After repeated failures
- Not stated on the official page — ask your DMV office.
- Online test
- Online permit test: resubmit application and try again after at least 6 hours
From the official source
If you fail you can resubmit your application and try again after a least 6 hours.
Before your next attempt
- Write down the topics you got wrong: signs, right-of-way, speed limits, alcohol rules, distances. The retest usually draws from the same pool.
- Reread only those chapters of the official New York handbook, not the whole book.
- Take our New York practice tests until you score 90% or more three times in a row — the real pass mark is lower, so that is a safe margin.
- Use the mistake review: it shows only the questions you missed, with the handbook section for each.
- The night before, do one exam simulation and stop. Sleep beats cramming.
The real test: 20 questions, 14 correct to pass.
Practice for the retakeReview my mistakes
Checked on October 31, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the DMV.