Massachusetts · How to Get a Permit
Massachusetts permit-test facts: Questions: 25; To pass: 18 out of 25 correct (72%); Minimum age: 16 years old for a learner's permit; Fee: $30 learner's permit application fee; $30 exam fee; Re-takes: $30 exam fee is due each time the permit exam is taken; no ordinary wait interval or attempt cap is stated; Official handbook: Massachusetts Driver's Manual.
Getting your Massachusetts learner's permit is straightforward once you know exactly what to bring and what to expect. This step-by-step guide covers every requirement so you walk into the DMV ready.
Most first-time applicants complete the whole process in one DMV visit. The biggest reason people fail? They don't pass the written knowledge test. Practice free questions below before you go.
Massachusetts permit-test facts: Questions: 25; To pass: 18 out of 25 correct (72%); Minimum age: 16 years old for a learner's permit; Fee: $30 learner's permit application fee; $30 exam fee; Re-takes: $30 exam fee is due each time the permit exam is taken; no ordinary wait interval or attempt cap is stated; Official handbook: Massachusetts Driver's Manual.
Each field links to the primary official source used for its review. A field marked not stated means the reviewed source did not publish that requested fact; confirm current application details with the authority.
| Fact | Answer | Evidence status |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | 25 | Verified against cited official source |
| To pass | 18 out of 25 correct (72%) | Verified against cited official source |
| Minimum age | 16 years old for a learner's permit | Verified against cited official source |
| Fee | $30 learner's permit application fee; $30 exam fee | Verified against cited official source |
| Re-takes | $30 exam fee is due each time the permit exam is taken; no ordinary wait interval or attempt cap is stated | Verified against cited official source |
| Official handbook | Massachusetts Driver's Manual | Verified against cited official source |
Official source
Field evidence reviewed: 2026-09-14 (retrieved)
Minimum-age information: 16 years old for a learner's permit. Confirm all age and eligibility conditions with the official authority.
Use the Massachusetts Driver's Manual and the authority’s current application instructions to identify the documents required for your situation.
Study the official handbook before booking or taking a test. Passing information: 18 out of 25 correct (72%). Retake information: $30 exam fee is due each time the permit exam is taken; no ordinary wait interval or attempt cap is stated.
Fee information: $30 learner's permit application fee; $30 exam fee. Confirm the current amount, appointment rules, and post-permit requirements directly with the official authority.
Three sample questions from our practice bank. Read the explanation after each.
Question 1 · Traffic signals
In Massachusetts, what does a steady red traffic light mean?
Correct answer: Stop; a right turn is allowed after a complete stop unless a NO TURN ON RED sign is posted
Red means stop — right turn on red is OK after stopping unless a sign forbids it.
Question 2 · Safe driving distance
The Massachusetts manual recommends a following distance of at least how long?
Correct answer: 3 seconds
Keep at least a 3-second gap behind the car ahead.
Question 3 · Alcohol and drugs
What is the illegal BAC limit for Massachusetts drivers 21 and older?
Correct answer: 0.08
0.08% BAC is the legal limit for drivers 21 and older.
Your first full mock exam is free.
If you pass the knowledge test and have your documents ready, you can receive your permit the same day. Plan for 1–3 hours at the DMV depending on wait times.
Appointments are optional at most Massachusetts DMV offices but strongly recommended — walk-ins can wait 1–4 hours. Book online before you go.
$30 exam fee is due each time the permit exam is taken; no ordinary wait interval or attempt cap is stated. Practice with handbook-style questions and read the AI explanation for every wrong answer before retesting.
Yes — Massachusetts offers the knowledge test in Spanish at most DMV offices. Ask the staff when you arrive or select your language at the testing kiosk.
Requirements vary by age. Check the Massachusetts Driver's Manual or our requirements page for the specific holding period that applies to you.
Start with a free practice exam. No card, no commitment.
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