WI Permit Practice Test

How to use this WI practice test

1. Take the 50 question exam-length practice test above once, untimed, to find your weak topics.
2. Work through the numbered 20 question sets below. Each one is fixed, so a second attempt is a fair comparison.
3. Read the explanation on every miss. The wording comes from the Wisconsin Motorists' Handbook, which is what the examiners use.
4. When you pass three sets in a row at 80 percent or better, book the real test.

WI practice tests, 20 questions each

Fixed sets in a fixed order so you can retake one and compare your score.

1. Test 1
2. Test 2
3. Test 3
4. Test 4
5. Test 5
6. Test 6
7. Test 7
8. Test 8
9. Test 9

Printable WI practice test with answer key

All 50 questions, WI exam length

Every question below comes from the Wisconsin question bank on this page. Open a question to see the correct answer and the explanation. Nothing here is hidden behind a signup.

1. 1. A Wisconsin driver is asked to take a prohibited alcohol concentration test and refuses. What consequence does the handbook describe?

   1. The officer must arrest the driver, and driving privileges are lost for at least one year
   2. The driver receives only a written warning for a first refusal
   3. The refusal changes the charge to a parking violation
   4. The driver may refuse if no crash occurred
   Show answer

   The officer must arrest the driver, and driving privileges are lost for at least one year. Wisconsin treats refusal of a requested prohibited alcohol concentration test as a violation of the Implied Consent Law. Full explanation in Test 1

2. 2. When should a Wisconsin driver slow down because the sight distance ahead is too short?

   1. When the driver cannot see 10 to 15 seconds ahead
   2. Only when the posted speed limit drops below 35 mph
   3. When another vehicle is more than four seconds behind
   4. Only after entering a school zone with children visible
   Show answer

   When the driver cannot see 10 to 15 seconds ahead. Wisconsin ties speed choice to how far ahead the driver can see. Full explanation in Test 1

3. 3. What does “right-of-way” tell drivers?

   1. Who goes first and who must wait
   2. Which vehicle has the largest engine
   3. When every driver may ignore pedestrians
   4. How fast a vehicle must travel
   Show answer

   Who goes first and who must wait. Right-of-way identifies which road user proceeds first and which one must wait. It does not measure engine size or set a vehicle speed. Full explanation in Test 1

4. 4. What does Wisconsin’s handbook say about assuming that the vehicle on the right always goes first?

   1. Do not make that assumption because each situation can differ
   2. Make that assumption at every intersection
   3. Use it only at four-way stops
   4. Ignore it whenever the road is wet
   Show answer

   Do not make that assumption because each situation can differ. Wisconsin’s handbook cautions that a vehicle on the right is not automatically first in every encounter. Full explanation in Test 1

5. 5. How old must someone be to operate a farm tractor or self-propelled farm machinery on a Wisconsin highway?

   1. At least 16 years old
   2. At least 14 years old
   3. At least 18 years old
   4. There is no minimum age
   Show answer

   At least 16 years old. The handbook states that no one under 16 may operate a farm tractor or self-propelled farm machinery on a highway. Full explanation in Test 1

6. 6. A school bus has flashing red lights on the other side of a divided highway. What is the rule for you?

   1. You do not have to stop when you are on the opposite side of the divided roadway
   2. You must stop at least 20 feet away every time
   3. You may pass only after the bus driver waves you through
   4. You must stop unless the highway has four lanes
   Show answer

   You do not have to stop when you are on the opposite side of the divided roadway. The handbook makes an exception for a divided highway or roadway when you are on the side opposite the stopped school bus. Full explanation in Test 1

7. 7. How many questions does the Wisconsin knowledge test include, and how many must an applicant answer correctly to pass?

   1. 50 questions, with 40 correct required
   2. 40 questions, with 32 correct required
   3. 60 questions, with 48 correct required
   4. 30 questions, with 24 correct required
   Show answer

   50 questions, with 40 correct required. The Wisconsin knowledge test includes 50 questions, and an applicant must answer 40 correctly to pass. Full explanation in Test 1

8. 8. A pedestrian is still in the intersection when your vehicle is ready to move. What must you do?

   1. Yield until the pedestrian leaves the intersection
   2. Proceed because a stop sign gives the vehicle priority
   3. Sound the horn so the pedestrian clears faster
   4. Drive around the pedestrian if the other lane is open
   Show answer

   Yield until the pedestrian leaves the intersection. The right-of-way section lists pedestrians who are still in the intersection among the road users to whom drivers should yield. Full explanation in Test 2

9. 9. What must Wisconsin drivers always do to avoid hitting pedestrians, bicyclists, or other vehicles?

   1. Yield when needed
   2. Assume pedestrians will stop
   3. Proceed first after sounding the horn
   4. Yield only when a police officer is present
   Show answer

   Yield when needed. Wisconsin's right-of-way section puts safety ahead of claiming priority: drivers must yield when needed to avoid hitting pedestrians, bicycl Full explanation in Test 2

10. 10. Where does the Wisconsin handbook say parking is not allowed?

    1. On yellow curb markings or in front of fire hydrants
    2. Only on the left side of a one-way street
    3. Anywhere within one block of a business
    4. On every road with a paved shoulder
    Show answer

    On yellow curb markings or in front of fire hydrants. The handbook identifies yellow curb markings and areas in front of fire hydrants as places where parking is not allowed. Full explanation in Test 2

11. 11. How many answers must an applicant get right to pass Wisconsin's Knowledge test?

    1. 40 of 50
    2. 35 of 50
    3. 45 of 50
    4. 30 of 50
    Show answer

    40 of 50. Wisconsin requires 40 correct answers on the 50-question Knowledge test, which is an 80 percent passing score. Full explanation in Test 2

12. 12. Unless another limit is posted, what is the maximum speed in outlying parts of Wisconsin cities and villages?

    1. 35 mph
    2. 25 mph
    3. 45 mph
    4. 55 mph
    Show answer

    35 mph. The handbook sets 35 mph as the maximum in outlying parts of cities and villages when no speed limit is posted. Full explanation in Test 2

13. 13. When are deer most active according to the Wisconsin handbook?

    1. From sunset to sunrise
    2. Only at noon on sunny days
    3. Only during heavy snow
    4. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
    Show answer

    From sunset to sunrise. The handbook warns that deer activity is highest from sunset to sunrise, when judging distance and speed is already harder. Full explanation in Test 2

14. 14. During the first nine months of Wisconsin GDL restrictions, when may a teen drive alone?

    1. From 5 a.m. to midnight, anywhere
    2. From midnight to 5 a.m., anywhere
    3. From 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., anywhere
    4. Only during daylight hours
    Show answer

    From 5 a.m. to midnight, anywhere. The handbook allows a teen to drive alone and go anywhere between 5 a.m. and 12 a.m. During the midnight to 5 a.m. Full explanation in Test 2

15. 15. If a Wisconsin driver refuses a requested PAC test, what minimum driving privilege consequence does the handbook describe?

    1. Loss of driving privileges for at least one year
    2. A warning with no license consequence
    3. A three-month suspension only
    4. A requirement to retake the signs test
    Show answer

    Loss of driving privileges for at least one year. Wisconsin's implied consent rule requires a driver to agree to a prohibited alcohol concentration test when an officer asks. Full explanation in Test 3

16. 16. How long does a Wisconsin driver under 18 still need a sponsor during the licensing process?

    1. Until turning 18, including the probationary phase
    2. Only until the instruction permit is issued
    3. Only for the first 30 days after the road test
    4. Until completing 10 hours of night driving
    Show answer

    Until turning 18, including the probationary phase. Wisconsin requires an adult sponsor for a driver under 18, and the need continues during the probationary phase until the driver turns 18. Full explanation in Test 3

17. 17. What does the pictured regulatory sign tell you to do?

    1. Do not enter the roadway
    2. Enter only after sounding the horn
    3. Park outside the marked lane
    4. Use the roadway only for a U-turn
    Show answer

    Do not enter the roadway. The red and white message prohibits entering the roadway. Full explanation in Test 3

18. 18. What movement is prohibited by this regulatory sign?

    1. Making a U-turn
    2. Turning into a driveway
    3. Moving from a one-way road to a two-way road
    4. Changing speed before a curve
    Show answer

    Making a U-turn. The pictured regulatory sign is the Wisconsin No U-turn sign, so it prohibits making a U-turn at that location. Full explanation in Test 3

19. 19. What does a Speed Limit sign indicate under Wisconsin guidance?

    1. The maximum speed allowed in good driving conditions
    2. A suggested speed that may always be exceeded to pass
    3. The minimum speed required during daylight
    4. The speed used only when the road is wet
    Show answer

    The maximum speed allowed in good driving conditions. A Wisconsin Speed Limit sign gives the maximum speed permitted in good driving conditions. Full explanation in Test 3

20. 20. What hazard does the round yellow railroad warning sign announce?

    1. A railroad crossing where a train might be close
    2. A mandatory roundabout movement
    3. A no-bicycle zone beside the roadway
    4. A school crossing with a reduced speed only
    Show answer

    A railroad crossing where a train might be close. The round yellow railroad warning sign alerts drivers that a train might be close and that tracks are ahead. Full explanation in Test 3

21. 21. What category of Wisconsin road sign does this yellow diamond signal sign belong to?

    1. Warning sign
    2. Destination sign
    3. Service sign
    4. Route number sign
    Show answer

    Warning sign. The pictured signal sign is in Wisconsin's warning sign group. Full explanation in Test 4

22. 22. What action is associated with a Lane Ends warning?

    1. Move to the other lane when it is safe
    2. Stop in the ending lane and wait for traffic to clear
    3. Pass on the shoulder before the lane disappears
    4. Keep the ending lane by crossing the center barrier
    Show answer

    Move to the other lane when it is safe. A Lane Ends sign means the displayed right or left lane will end. Full explanation in Test 4

23. 23. What response does Wisconsin recommend for a Slippery When Wet warning?

    1. Slow down when you see the sign
    2. Increase speed to reduce time on the wet pavement
    3. Brake hard while entering the slick section
    4. Use the shoulder to avoid all opposing traffic
    Show answer

    Slow down when you see the sign. The Slippery When Wet warning means the road ahead might be slippery, and Wisconsin tells drivers to slow down when they see it. Full explanation in Test 4

24. 24. What should a driver do after seeing a curved-road warning sign?

    1. Slow down if needed to drive safely through the curve
    2. Accelerate before the road changes direction
    3. Stop in the travel lane until the curve ends
    4. Move immediately onto the shoulder
    Show answer

    Slow down if needed to drive safely through the curve. A curved-road warning means the roadway will gradually move right or left, so the driver should reduce speed when conditions require it. Full explanation in Test 4

25. 25. When may a driver enter a Wisconsin roundabout without waiting?

    1. When there is no traffic in the roundabout
    2. Whenever the driver signals a turn
    3. Only after stopping inside the roundabout
    4. When entering traffic is moving faster
    Show answer

    When there is no traffic in the roundabout. A driver does not need to wait to enter when the roundabout has no traffic. Full explanation in Test 4

26. 26. What following-distance method does the Wisconsin handbook teach?

    1. Use a four-second gap, adding time for adverse conditions
    2. Stay one car length behind at every speed
    3. Follow within one second whenever traffic is light
    4. Match the vehicle ahead bumper to bumper
    Show answer

    Use a four-second gap, adding time for adverse conditions. The handbook's four-second method uses a stationary object as a reference. Full explanation in Test 4

27. 27. Why should Wisconsin drivers give motorcycles extra room when following them?

    1. Motorcycles can stop faster than most vehicles
    2. Motorcycles are required to travel below 25 mph
    3. Motorcycles always have two riders
    4. Motorcycles cannot use regular traffic lanes
    Show answer

    Motorcycles can stop faster than most vehicles. Wisconsin notes that motorcycles are lightweight and can stop faster than most vehicles, so drivers following them need extra space. Full explanation in Test 4

28. 28. What does an eight-sided red stop sign require?

    1. A complete stop, followed by waiting until the path is clear
    2. A rolling slowdown when no traffic is visible
    3. A yield only to vehicles approaching from the left
    4. A stop only when a pedestrian is present
    Show answer

    A complete stop, followed by waiting until the path is clear. The octagonal red sign is a stop sign. The driver must come to a complete stop and wait until the path is clear before continuing. Full explanation in Test 5

29. 29. What does the Wisconsin handbook say is the only thing that will sober a driver up?

    1. Time
    2. Coffee
    3. Cold air
    4. A short nap in the vehicle
    Show answer

    Time. Wisconsin's alcohol guidance is direct: time is the only thing that will sober you up. Full explanation in Test 5

30. 30. When may Wisconsin driving privileges be suspended or revoked for demerit points?

    1. After 12 or more points within any 12-month period
    2. After 4 points in any five-year period
    3. Only after points are earned on two licenses
    4. After 20 points within a single week
    Show answer

    After 12 or more points within any 12-month period. The point-system threshold is 12 or more demerit points within any 12-month period. Full explanation in Test 5

31. 31. What insurance must a vehicle have before it is driven in Wisconsin?

    1. Valid liability car insurance
    2. Collision coverage only
    3. A vehicle warranty instead of insurance
    4. Insurance only when traveling outside Wisconsin
    Show answer

    Valid liability car insurance. Wisconsin requires valid liability car insurance for driving in the state. Full explanation in Test 5

32. 32. A pedestrian with a white cane is approaching a roadway. How far away should you stop?

    1. At least 10 feet away until the person is off the roadway
    2. No closer than 3 feet, then proceed slowly
    3. At least 25 feet away until another driver passes
    4. Only at the nearest stop line
    Show answer

    At least 10 feet away until the person is off the roadway. Wisconsin gives special protection to a pedestrian carrying a white cane or using a guide dog, even when that person has not yet entered the Full explanation in Test 5

33. 33. Why should a Wisconsin driver avoid coasting in neutral?

    1. Staying in gear helps keep full control of the vehicle
    2. Neutral makes the headlights turn off automatically
    3. Neutral is required before every gradual stop
    4. Coasting is allowed only on divided highways
    Show answer

    Staying in gear helps keep full control of the vehicle. The handbook tells drivers not to coast in neutral because staying in gear helps maintain full control. Full explanation in Test 5

34. 34. When turning at an intersection, when should you begin signaling?

    1. About three seconds, or about 100 feet, before the turn
    2. Only after entering the intersection
    3. About 10 feet before turning
    4. After the turn is complete
    Show answer

    About three seconds, or about 100 feet, before the turn. For a turn at an intersection, begin the signal about three seconds, or approximately 100 feet, before turning. Full explanation in Test 5

35. 35. When should a driver return from high beams to low beams?

    1. When a vehicle comes toward you
    2. Whenever the road has a center line
    3. Only after entering a construction area
    4. When following a vehicle at any distance
    Show answer

    When a vehicle comes toward you. Wisconsin directs drivers to return to low beams when a vehicle is coming toward them. Full explanation in Test 6

36. 36. What must a driver do when a railroad crossing gate is lowering?

    1. Wait and do not drive around the gate
    2. Drive around it if no train is visible
    3. Cross after the gate reaches halfway down
    4. Stop under the gate until the bell ends
    Show answer

    Wait and do not drive around the gate. A lowering railroad gate means the crossing is closing for a train, so wait and never drive around or under the gate. Full explanation in Test 6

37. 37. What should you do at a flashing yellow traffic signal?

    1. Slow down, check for cross traffic, and proceed with caution
    2. Stop and wait for a green arrow
    3. Speed through before the signal changes
    4. Ignore the signal because it is not operating
    Show answer

    Slow down, check for cross traffic, and proceed with caution. Flashing yellow means slow down, check for cross traffic, and proceed with caution. Full explanation in Test 6

38. 38. What does a dashed yellow center line allow when it is safe?

    1. Passing other vehicles
    2. Parking in the center of the roadway
    3. Turning only at a traffic signal
    4. Driving against traffic without checking
    Show answer

    Passing other vehicles. A dashed yellow line separates opposing traffic but indicates that passing may be allowed when it is safe to do so. Full explanation in Test 6

39. 39. What should a driver do when the tires begin sliding on top of water?

    1. Ease off the gas, keep the wheel straight, and wait for grip
    2. Press the brake pedal firmly and turn toward the shoulder
    3. Accelerate until the tires cut through the water
    4. Turn sharply before the vehicle reaches the road edge
    Show answer

    Ease off the gas, keep the wheel straight, and wait for grip. When a vehicle hydroplanes, the tires are riding on water instead of gripping the pavement. Full explanation in Test 6

40. 40. What should you do when emergency lights and sirens announce an approaching emergency vehicle?

    1. Pull to the side of the road and stop
    2. Stop in the center of the intersection
    3. Keep driving until the emergency vehicle sounds its horn
    4. Follow closely behind the emergency vehicle
    Show answer

    Pull to the side of the road and stop. Wisconsin directs drivers to make room when emergency lights and sirens are active. Full explanation in Test 6

41. 41. When approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights, which lane should you use?

    1. The lane not nearest the stopped vehicle
    2. The lane nearest the stopped vehicle
    3. The shoulder between the vehicle and curb
    4. Any lane without slowing
    Show answer

    The lane not nearest the stopped vehicle. When an emergency vehicle is stopped with its lights flashing, move into the lane farthest from that vehicle when it is safe. Full explanation in Test 7

42. 42. What does a steady yellow traffic light tell a driver approaching an intersection?

    1. The light is about to turn red, so slow and stop before entering
    2. Speed up because the light guarantees extra crossing time
    3. Stop wherever the vehicle is if the light changes
    4. Proceed without checking because yellow gives priority
    Show answer

    The light is about to turn red, so slow and stop before entering. A steady yellow warns that the signal is about to change to red. Slow down and stop before entering the intersection. Full explanation in Test 7

43. 43. Which description identifies Wisconsin's Stop sign?

    1. An eight sided red sign with white letters
    2. A round blue sign with white arrows
    3. A yellow diamond with black lettering
    4. A downward pointing red and white triangle
    Show answer

    An eight sided red sign with white letters. The handbook describes the Stop sign as red, marked with white letters, and shaped with eight sides. Full explanation in Test 7

44. 44. If the parking brake causes a skid after brake failure, what should the driver do?

    1. Release the parking brake
    2. Pump the accelerator
    3. Open the driver door
    4. Turn sharply into oncoming traffic
    Show answer

    Release the parking brake. After a brake failure, Wisconsin advises pumping the brake pedal, then using the parking brake carefully. Full explanation in Test 7

45. 45. What should you do after a tire blowout while driving?

    1. Hold straight, lift off the gas, and slow gradually
    2. Brake hard and steer onto the shoulder immediately
    3. Turn sharply toward the centerline
    4. Release the steering wheel so the tire can settle
    Show answer

    Hold straight, lift off the gas, and slow gradually. A blowout can pull the vehicle or disturb its balance, so Wisconsin emphasizes control and gradual slowing. Full explanation in Test 7

46. 46. Until what age must children generally use a child safety seat in Wisconsin?

    1. Until they reach age four
    2. Until they reach age two
    3. Until they reach age eight
    4. Until they reach age twelve
    Show answer

    Until they reach age four. Wisconsin generally requires a child safety seat until a child reaches age four. Full explanation in Test 7

47. 47. What does a single dashed yellow line between opposing traffic lanes mean?

    1. You may pass when it is safe
    2. No vehicle may cross the line
    3. Traffic travels in the same direction
    4. The road is approaching a railroad crossing
    Show answer

    You may pass when it is safe. A single dashed yellow line separates traffic moving in opposite directions and permits passing when conditions make that maneuver safe. Full explanation in Test 7

48. 48. Where should you not stop when yielding to an approaching emergency vehicle?

    1. In the middle of an intersection
    2. On the side of the road
    3. In a legal parking area
    4. Behind the stop line
    Show answer

    In the middle of an intersection. A driver yielding to an approaching emergency vehicle must not stop in the middle of an intersection. Full explanation in Test 8

49. 49. A school bus displays flashing red lights across an undivided Wisconsin roadway. What action is required?

    1. Stop at least 20 feet away
    2. Continue because the bus is facing the other way
    3. Stop only if children are visible
    4. Pass after slowing to 15 mph
    Show answer

    Stop at least 20 feet away. A school bus with flashing red lights requires traffic to stop at least 20 feet away. Full explanation in Test 8

50. 50. After stopping at a steady red light, when may you turn right in Wisconsin?

    1. When it is safe and no sign prohibits the turn
    2. Whenever the road is empty, without stopping
    3. Only after the signal turns yellow
    4. Only when a vehicle behind sounds its horn
    Show answer

    When it is safe and no sign prohibits the turn. A right turn on red is permitted only after a complete stop, a check for traffic, and confirmation that no sign prohibits the turn. Full explanation in Test 8