how to pass the DMV written test in california

perhaps the first written test you have to take as a new resident in the US is the traffic laws and sign test - at least if you want to be able to drive around on your own or if you're planning to get a job. i don't know about other states but here in California, you have to get at least 30 correct answers out of 36 multiple-choice questions before they issue you a learner's permit. you need to have this permit with you every time you practice driving either with a professional instructor or a friend/family member with a valid driver's license. you can never practice alone. you have to be accompanied at all times.

i took my written test last Thursday at the DMV office here in Fremont. i passed it, one mistake. but just because i almost perfected it doesn't mean it's a walk in the park. definitely not! you have to take the test seriously and prepare for it. here are some tips:

1. read the DMV manual at least 3 times. my friend candy kept telling me this especially during the many times i complained to her that it's so nakakatamad to read the manual. i swear, it's guaranteed to make you fall asleep after the first 10 pages, if you're able to get that far. also, it took me so long to finish 80+ pages because Racrac was so demanding of my time. excuses! excuses! hehehe.. anyway, i didn't follow candy's advice. i only read it twice and it took me 5 months. I think it was in July when i decided to read beyond the cover.

2. take the online tests available at the DMV official website. here's the link: Samples of Driver Tests

3. take the online tests available at this site http://www.esampletest.com/. here, you can do practice test all you want for free or you may choose to buy a premium code to unlock the premium questions. i personally know the owners of this site so they gave me a premium code for free, yehey!!! thanks noel & jane! the night before i headed to the DMV office, i logged in to this site and took the sample test at least 5 times and got a perfect score each time. that's when i knew i was ready.

4. relax. read the questions carefully. don't panic if you don't know the answer right away. answer first the questions you are sure of then go back to those you skipped.

that's it. there are some websites that offer online tests for a fee but i personally think they're unnecessary. remember, all the answers are in the manual so if you just follow what i told you, then you'll be fine. if you fail the first time, don't fret. you still have 2 more chances to pass. and hey, when you pass, do come back and let me know if i have been of any help. good luck!

___
Update 6.27.09 - Read my behind-the-wheel driving test experience

Tweet