Oregon's written test has 35 questions

The Oregon written knowledge test contains 35 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass, which is a score of 80 percent. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, safe driving practices, and right-of-way rules specific to Oregon.

The test is administered by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) at DMV locations throughout the state. You take it on a computer at the testing station, and you receive your score when ready after completion. If you fail, you can retake the test, though Oregon requires a waiting period between attempts.

Key Takeaways

  • The Oregon written test has 35 questions, and you need to score 80 percent (28 correct answers) to pass.
  • Questions cover Oregon traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and right-of-way situations you will encounter on the road.
  • The test is taken on a computer at your local DMV office, and results are given when ready.
  • You must wait at least one day before retaking the test if you fail on your first attempt.
  • Oregon offers a free study guide online that covers all topics tested, so you can review before your appointment.

What topics the test covers

The 35 questions are drawn from Oregon's Driver Manual, which ODOT publishes free online. The test focuses on practical knowledge you need to drive safely and legally in Oregon. Topics include identifying traffic signs and their meanings, understanding speed limits and when they change, knowing right-of-way rules at intersections, and recognizing safe following distances.

Questions also cover Oregon-specific rules such as the state's distracted driving law, requirements for child safety seats, and how to handle emergency vehicles on the road. The test includes scenarios where you must decide the correct action—for example, what to do when approaching a school bus with its lights flashing, or how to proceed at a four-way stop.

You will also see questions about parking rules, turning safely, lane changes, and what to do if your brakes fail. The questions test your understanding of when to use headlights, how weather affects stopping distance, and the dangers of driving under the influence.

How the test is scored and what happens if you fail

Your score is calculated when ready after you finish the test. You need 28 correct answers out of 35 to pass. If you score 27 or fewer, you fail and must retake the test. Oregon requires you to wait at least one day before your next attempt, though you can schedule a new appointment as soon as the next day.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you must pay the test fee each time. The fee is the same whether you are taking the test for the first time or retaking it after a failure. Some people pass on the first try; others need two or three attempts. Studying the Oregon Driver Manual between attempts significantly improves your chances.

How to prepare for the test

ODOT provides the Oregon Driver Manual free on its website. This manual contains all the information covered on the test, organized by topic. Reading through it once gives you a solid foundation, but most people benefit from reading it twice—once to learn the material and once to review before their test date.

Many people also use practice tests, which are available free through ODOT's website and through third-party websites. Practice tests show you the types of questions you will see and help you identify weak areas. If you struggle with a particular topic—such as right-of-way rules or sign identification—you can focus your studying there.

The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and others. If English is not your first language, you can request an interpreter at the DMV, though you must arrange this when you schedule your appointment.

When you can take the test

You can take the written test at any DMV office in Oregon during regular business hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations offering Saturday hours. You do not need to schedule an appointment for the written test at most locations, though some offices recommend scheduling to avoid long waits.

You must bring a valid form of identification and proof of your Social Security number. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian present, depending on your situation. Check your local DMV office's requirements before you go, as rules can vary slightly by location.

The difference between the written test and the driving test

The written test and the driving test are separate. You must pass the written test before you can schedule the driving test. The written test measures your knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices. The driving test, taken with an examiner in a vehicle, measures your ability to actually operate a car safely and follow those rules in real driving situations.

Some people pass the written test on the first try but need multiple attempts at the driving test, or vice versa. Passing the written test does not mean you will pass the driving test, and failing the written test does not predict how you will do behind the wheel. They test different skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. The test is proctored, meaning a DMV staff member watches while you take it. You cannot use your phone, notes, or any other materials. You can only use the computer provided by the DMV to answer the questions.

How long does the test take?

Most people finish the 35-question test in 20 to 30 minutes. There is no strict time limit, so you can take as long as you need to read and answer each question carefully. Rushing through the test increases the chance of mistakes.

What happens if I fail the test twice?

You can retake the test as many times as needed. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Each time you retake it, you pay the test fee again. Most people pass within two or three tries if they study the Oregon Driver Manual between attempts.

Is the test the same every time I take it?

No. The questions are drawn from a larger pool, so each test is different. However, all tests cover the same topics and are equally difficult. Studying the Oregon Driver Manual prepares you for any version of the test you encounter.

Can I take the test in a language other than English?

Yes. Oregon offers the test in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and several other languages. When you schedule your appointment or arrive at the DMV, let staff know which language you need, and they will provide the test in that language.