Retaking the DPS Written Knowledge Exam

So you didn’t pass your Texas DPS written knowledge exam on the first try. That’s disappointing! But don’t take it to heart. Failing the exam does not reflect what kind of driver you will be. There are a ton of people out there on the road with excellent driving skills who just happen not to be great test-takers.

Let’s talk about the process of re-taking the exam and some strategies for passing on your next attempt so you can move on to the fun stuff (drivingThe 14 Most Common Mistakes To Avoid On The Driving Test Blog!).

How Many Times Can You Retake the Knowledge Exam?

No matter which track you're taking to get your driver's license, if you don't pass the exam, there's no limit to the number of times you can re-take it. However, you will have to wait 24 hours before you can retake the test. For each exam type, you do not have to pay again, regardless of how many times you re-take the test. 

Understanding the Retake Process

After the mandatory 24-hour waiting period has passed, you can retake your written test. It's a great idea to spend some time reviewing the Texas Driver HandbookForms Dl 7.pdf InternetformsForms Dl 7.pdf Internetforms to figure out the answers to questions you may have missed. If you're taking the exam online with an approved course provider, like Aceable, there's no need to make an appointment — just log in whenever you're ready to give it another shot.

If you're taking it at the driver's license office, you can schedule an appointmentPublic.txdpsscheduler.com in advance online using the Texas Scheduler tool. Just select "Apply for first time Texas DL/Permit" from the appointment option, choose your location, and select the day and time that works for you.

You need to get a 70% on this exam, so you have to get 21 out of 30 questions right to pass.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Whether you're preparing to take the Texas DPS written knowledge exam for the first time or planning a retake, avoiding a few common mistakes may increase your chances of success. 

Mistake 1: Misunderstanding Questions

Some questions on the DPS written exam can be tricky, and you might misunderstand them if you don't read them carefully. Read each question and all possible answers twice. Pay special attention to details and wording that might change the meaning of what's being asked.

Mistake 2: Running Out of Time

You'll have 30 minutes to complete each of the two exam modules, giving you a total of one hour. If you're starting to run out of time, you may begin rushing through the questions, which can lead to errors. To avoid this, practice taking timed tests so you can get a feel for the pace you need. During the exam, keep an eye on the clock, but don’t rush. Answer the questions you know first, then come back to the more challenging ones.

Mistake 3: Over-confidence

Some students feel they have a good grip on driving basics, so they don't study hard enough for the exam. Don't forget there's a good chance you'll run into questions about road signs, rules, and scenarios you might not encounter every day. Make sure to read all sections of the study material, not just the ones you think you need to review. This comprehensive approach ensures you’re well-prepared for any question.

Mistake 4: Anxiety 

Text anxietyTips And Tools Tackling Test Anxiety Learningcenter.unc.edu can cause you to forget key information, even if you're well prepared. Avoid this by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or positive visualization before the test. Remind yourself that you've prepared for the exam and you have the knowledge you need to pass. And don't forget, if you fail, you can always take it again. 

Study Tips

To pass the knowledge exam, you need to go in prepared. An important part of acing any exam is bringing your best self to the test. That means getting a good night of sleep the night before, making sure you’re hydrated and fed, and taking the test in a quiet place with no distractions.

The second important thing is to go into the exam confident in your knowledge of the material. Review the material in the course. If there are concepts you struggle with, make flashcards and focus your study time on those. You’ll get the most bang for your study buck if you spend time reviewing things that are difficult for you.

Sample Questions

Want to take a look at a few sample questions? These come directly from the PTDE Level 1 practice exam. Let’s try it!

Question A: Which kind of vehicle is marked with a fluorescent orange triangle with reflective borders?

1. Vehicles operated by drivers with disabilities

2. Vehicles that travel at 25 mph or less

3. Police cars

4. Pizza delivery cars

Question B: What should you do at a yellow traffic light?

1. Stop if it's safe to do so

2. Speed up to cross before the light turns red

3. Slam on the brakes

4. Drive through the intersection, but slowly

Question C:What does this sign convey?

1. Road curves ahead

2. Detour ahead

3. Right turn only

4. Keep to the right, a median is coming up

Question D: Texas driver licenses expire after how long?

1. six years

2. eight years

3. three years

4. one year

Question E: When parking uphill with a curb, turn the front wheels away from the:

1. street

2. car behind you

3. curb

4. car in front of you

Answers: Quesation A:2, Question B:1, Question C:4, Question D:1, Question E:3

So, how’d you do? If you answered all five correctly, you might be ready to take another crack at that knowledge test. If not, maybe go back and review the course or take a few more practice tests. 

Resources for Additional Practice

Need even more help? Here are a few additional resources you can consult for retaking the DPS written knowledge exam:

• Take the free practice testPermit Practice Test Dmv that comes with your course until you’re regularly scoring 90 and above.

• Use our Texas learner's permit test study guideTexas Knowledge Test Prep Course Drivers EdTexas Knowledge Test Prep Course Drivers Ed to dive deeper into the knowledge you'll need to pass.

• Reread the official Texas Driver HandbookForms Dl 7.pdf InternetformsForms Dl 7.pdf Internetforms so you know your stuff front to back.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Ready to tackle the Texas Permit Test with confidence? Aceable's study guide breaks down all the essential information from the Texas Driver Handbook to ensure you have exactly what you need to pass your test. It's also packed with tips and tricks for acing the test, easy-to-memorize visuals, and more. Get your copy nowTexas Knowledge Test Prep Course Drivers EdTexas Knowledge Test Prep Course Drivers Ed.