Massachusetts · Permit Requirements
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.
Before you visit the DMV, make sure you meet every Massachusetts learner's permit requirement — missing a single document sends you home without a permit. This page lists everything you need: age, documents, tests, and fees, sourced from the Massachusetts Driver's Manual.
Already have your documents? Practice the free knowledge test below so you walk in ready to pass on the first try.
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)
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.
Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), your Social Security number (Social Security card), and proof of Massachusetts residency (two documents such as utility bills or bank statements). Bring originals — photocopies are typically not accepted.
16 years old for a learner's permit. Different requirements apply depending on your age — younger applicants must complete driver education before applying.
$30 learner's permit application fee; $30 exam fee. Check the DMV website for the current fee schedule as these can change.
It depends on your age. Adults (18+) can generally apply directly. Applicants under 18 in Massachusetts must typically complete an approved driver education program first.
Yes — Massachusetts offers the knowledge test in Spanish at most DMV offices. You can also request a Spanish version of the driver's handbook at the counter.
Start with a free practice exam. No card, no commitment.
Driver Handbook
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The complete Massachusetts permit test guide: 25 questions, 18 out of 25 correct (72%) to pass, who qualifies, the mistakes that fail most people, free practice questions, and an AI tutor in 5 languages.
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Written Test Questions
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Free Massachusetts DMV written test questions for, written from the Massachusetts Driver's Manual. Practice real exam-style questions with AI explanations in 5 languages.
DMV Test in Spanish
Massachusetts DMV Permit Test in Spanish
Study for the Massachusetts DMV permit test in Spanish. Native-quality Spanish practice questions, explanations, and an AI tutor — plus what to expect on the official exam.
DMV Test in Chinese
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Study for the Massachusetts DMV permit test in Chinese. Native-quality Chinese practice questions, explanations, and an AI tutor — plus what to expect on the official exam.
DMV Test in Korean
Massachusetts DMV Permit Test in Korean
Study for the Massachusetts DMV permit test in Korean. Native-quality Korean practice questions, explanations, and an AI tutor — plus what to expect on the official exam.
DMV Test in Russian
Massachusetts DMV Permit Test in Russian
Study for the Massachusetts DMV permit test in Russian. Native-quality Russian practice questions, explanations, and an AI tutor — plus what to expect on the official exam.
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