Failed the Tennessee permit test: when you can retake it
Failing the written test is common and fixable. Here is what Tennessee says about retaking it, and a plan for the next attempt.
- How soon you can retake
- mandatory 1-day waiting period; no test repeated same day
- Attempts
- Not stated on the official page — ask your DMV office.
- Retest fee
- Not stated on the official page — ask your DMV office.
- After repeated failures
- Same 1-day wait applies between additional re-tests
From the official source
A mandatory 1-day waiting period is required after failing any driver license knowledge test. The waiting period outlined above will also be applied to wait times between additional re-testing if the applicant does not pass the examination on the second or subsequent attempts.
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 Tennessee handbook, not the whole book.
- Take our Tennessee 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: 30 questions, 24 correct to pass.
Practice for the retakeReview my mistakes
Checked on October 25, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the DMV.