FirstTryEn españolNew York permit test study guide
The New York knowledge test is written from the New York State Driver's Manual. Format: 20 questions, 14 right to pass (source). The real New York test also has 4 road-sign questions, and you need 2 of them right. This practice covers the written rules. This guide lists what the handbook tests, the numbers people forget and four sample questions, each with its handbook section.
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What the test covers
FirstTry's New York bank has 150 questions written from the handbook. The biggest topics, by how many questions the handbook supports:
- Road signs: 12 questions
- Traffic signals: 12 questions
- Alcohol and drugs: 12 questions
- Parking: 10 questions
- Right-of-way: 9 questions
- Speed limits: 9 questions
- Pavement markings: 9 questions
- School buses: 7 questions
Numbers to know
Each line is in our words; the link opens the handbook section it comes from, so you can check it.
- New York City has a default speed limit of 25 mph that is not always signed. Some cities also set limits below 55 mph without posting every block. handbook section
- Work areas can post a speed limit as low as 25 mph. Even with no posted limit, you must drive at a reduced speed through a work zone and obey flag persons. handbook section
- When no limit is posted, do not drive faster than 55 mph. handbook section
- Roundabouts are built with small diameters and curved entries so that every vehicle inside travels at 30 mph or less. handbook section
- Expressway speed limits are normally 55 mph, and some rural stretches are posted at 65 mph. handbook section
- Above .05 percent is evidence of impairment, .08 percent or higher is evidence of intoxication, and .18 percent or more supports a charge of aggravated DWI. handbook section
- Zero Tolerance applies to drivers under 21: a BAC from .02 to .07, which one drink can produce, brings a six-month suspension. A second violation means revocation for one year or until age 21, whichever is longer. handbook section
- A first chemical test refusal by a driver over 21 brings a revocation of at least one year. If the refusal comes within five years of an earlier refusal or alcohol-related violation, the minimum rises to 18 months. handbook section
- Each standard drink raises a 150-pound man's BAC by about .02 percent, and the body needs roughly one hour on average to clear that much alcohol. Women may take longer. handbook section
- On a public highway, street or road, neither the driver nor a passenger may drink alcohol or hold an open container of it. A first conviction can bring a fine of up to $150 and possible jail time of 15 days. handbook section
- Leandra's Law makes driving while intoxicated with a passenger under 16 a felony, with up to four years in prison. handbook section
- Keep at least 15 feet away from a hydrant. The exception is a licensed driver sitting in the vehicle, ready to move it in an emergency. handbook section
How to study in four days
- Day 1: read the handbook chapters on rules of the road and signs. Do not skim the sign pages; shapes and colors are tested.
- Day 2: read speed limits, right-of-way, parking and the alcohol chapter. Write down every number.
- Day 3: take a full practice test in the real format. Open the handbook section on every question you miss.
- Day 4: take another test. If you pass with room to spare twice in a row, you are ready.
Sample questions
Right-of-way
Another driver has just yielded to you. What should you keep in mind?
- Having the right-of-way means you may keep your speed
- The right-of-way is not complete, so be ready to yield anyway
- You never have to yield once you have the right-of-way
Show the answer
The right-of-way is not complete, so be ready to yield anyway. Even with the right-of-way, be ready to yield to others. Waiting a few seconds is far better than risking a crash.
From the handbook: Chapter 8: Defensive Driving > Be Prepared and Look Ahead (page 46)
Speed limits
What is the usual speed limit on an expressway in New York State?
- 65 mph everywhere, including inside city limits
- 55 mph, with 65 mph posted in some rural areas
- 50 mph in every county, unless a sign says otherwise
Show the answer
55 mph, with 65 mph posted in some rural areas. Expressway speed limits are normally 55 mph, and some rural stretches are posted at 65 mph.
From the handbook: Chapter 10: Special Driving Conditions > Expressway Driving (page 62)
Road signs
A reflective orange triangle is mounted on the back of a farm tractor ahead. What does it tell you?
- The vehicle is moving slowly, so approach with caution
- The vehicle carries hazardous materials, so keep well back
- The vehicle is about to turn left
Show the answer
The vehicle is moving slowly, so approach with caution. The orange triangle is the slow-moving vehicle symbol. It appears on animal-drawn vehicles, most farm vehicles, construction equipment and rural mail vehicles. Slow down and pass only when it is safe.
From the handbook: Chapter 11: Sharing the Road > Slow-Moving Vehicles (page 76)
Alcohol and drugs
Under Leandra's Law, what charge can a driver face for driving drunk with a child under 16 in the vehicle?
- A traffic infraction with a small fine and no jail time
- A felony that can mean up to four years in prison
- Only a warning for a first offense
Show the answer
A felony that can mean up to four years in prison. Leandra's Law makes driving while intoxicated with a passenger under 16 a felony, with up to four years in prison.
From the handbook: Chapter 9: Alcohol and Other Drugs > The Consequences > The Ignition Interlock Program and Leandra's Law (page 59)