Free Washington DOL Practice Permit Test - Practice Test 3 2026
This Practice Test 3 is modeled on the Department of Licensing (DOL) written knowledge exam, which has 40 questions; to pass you need 32 of 40 correct (80%). These 25 questions rotate through traffic laws, road signs, and right-of-way - the core topics the DOL tests most heavily. Every question includes an explanation, so you learn the rule behind each answer - not just whether you got it right.
In states that use colored curbs, what does a red curb generally mean?
What's on the Washington Practice Test 3
The real Washington knowledge test has 40 questions, and to pass you need 32 of 40 correct (80%). Practice Test 3 is a 25-question set drawn from 52 questions, scored against a practice target of 80%.
Topics in this test's question pool
- Road signs 16
- Traffic laws 15
- Safe driving 8
- Parking 3
- Alcohol & drugs 3
- Emergencies 3
- Vehicle equipment 2
- Speed limits 1
- Right of way 1
52 questions in the pool, 9 of them written specifically for Washington. Each attempt shows 25 in a new order.
Sample questions from this test, with answers
Want to test yourself first? Take the test above before reading these. Every answer below is checked against the source shown.
1. About how much distance does a loaded truck with good brakes need to stop from 55 mph?
- A. 150 feet
- B. 250 feet
- C. 450 feet (correct)
- D. 850 feet
Why: A loaded truck at 55 mph needs about 450 feet to stop. Cutting in front of one without enough room is dangerous.
Source: official Washington driver handbook, PDF p.98, 4.4 Sharing with large vehicles
2. After a full stop at a red light, with no sign forbidding it, where may you turn left?
- A. Never, on any red light
- B. Onto a one-way street (correct)
- C. Onto any two-way street
- D. Only from a center lane
Why: After stopping at a red light, you may turn left onto a one-way street if no 'no turn on red' sign is posted and there is room to enter traffic.
Source: official Washington driver handbook, PDF p.110, 4.11 Traffic light signals - Solid red
3. In states that use colored curbs, what does a red curb generally mean?
- A. Parking allowed if you stay with the car
- B. No stopping, standing, or parking (correct)
- C. Passenger loading only
- D. Loading for commercial trucks only
Why: Where curb colors are used, red means no stopping, standing or parking; it is often used for fire lanes and near hydrants. White usually means passenger loading, green limited-time parking and blue disabled parking. Curb rules vary by state and city, so obey posted signs.
4. What is the most effective way to stay alert on a long drive?
- A. Drink coffee or an energy drink each hour
- B. Keep the window open and the air cold
- C. Take breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles (correct)
- D. Turn up the radio and sing along
Why: The only real cure for drowsiness while driving is sleep. Take breaks at least every 2 hours or 100 miles. Coffee provides temporary relief but is not a substitute for rest.
5. A yellow sign showing a traffic signal symbol means:
- A. The signal ahead is broken
- B. A traffic light is ahead (correct)
- C. A railroad signal ahead
- D. An emergency vehicle signal
Why: A signal-ahead warning sign tells you a traffic light is coming up, often where it may be hard to see in time. Be prepared to slow and stop.
6. How do prescription and over-the-counter medications affect driving?
- A. Legal medicines are always safe to drive on
- B. Only prescription drugs can impair driving
- C. Many cause drowsiness - check the label first (correct)
- D. Only if you take more than the dose listed
Why: Many legal medications - including antihistamines, sleep aids, and pain relievers - can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slowed reactions. Always read warning labels and avoid driving if a medication may impair you.
More Washington facts, the full requirements table and the printable PDF are on the Washington permit practice test page.
Washington DOL Test Info
- Questions on real test
- 40
- Passing score
- 80%
- Correct needed
- 32 of 40 correct (80%)
- Minimum age
- 15½ years old
- Testing agency
- Department of Licensing
More Washington Tests
Study Tip
Don't just aim to pass this Washington Practice Test 3 once - keep taking it until you score 80% or higher two or three times in a row. Read the explanation after every question, even the ones you get right, to lock in the rule before your DOL exam.