The advent of the internet has brought with it many upsides, and my favorite is probably the fact that you could now skip having to go to the DMV entirely by taking their written tests online. I can’t think of a single person who actually likes going to the DMV, so I’d say this is a very big plus. However, how do you take this DMV written test online, and are you even eligible?
1) Eligibility For Taking The DMV’s Written Test Online
Well, the eligibility for taking the DMV’s written test online is quite broad, which includes:
- Most states now allow the DMV written test to be taken online, but for more info on whether your particular state has this (i.e. California, Florida, or Texas), a quick Google search ought to let you know. Or, better still, contact your state’s DMV and ask them.
- Regarding age restrictions, certain states may require you to be within a specified age bracket to qualify for taking the written test online. Most of them are between 15 to 18 years old. As we mentioned earlier, be sure to contact your state’s DMV to ask for more specifics.
- Additionally, some states might restrict these online DMV written tests to first-time applicants or those who are renewing their learner’s permits. Another factoid I’ve found is that folks who have had their driving privileges revoked or suspended aren’t usually eligible, either.
- Similarly, anyone who’s failed the written test multiple times in the past might have to re-take the tests again in person (thus, not qualifying for the online test). Aside from that, some states have more specific rules for how many times these tests can be re-taken online.
- Moreover, some states might require that you complete their driver’s education course before being able to take the online tests. Besides these, other states might also require that you first have a learner’s permit or pass a vision test before taking the written tests online.
2) Registering For The Online Test
Now, assuming you’ve met all those eligibility requirements before you take the DMV written test online, here’s how you can register for one:
- First thing first, you’ll have to navigate to the official site of your state’s DMV. It’s as simple as Googling “[your state] DMV” (i.e. “California DMV”), and you’ll find it very easily. It’s here where you’ll find everything that has to do with your state’s DMV, including where you’ll find the online written tests.
- Once you’re on your state DMV’s official site, look for a section like “Online Services”, “Driver Services,” “Written Test Registration”, or anything similar (i.e. the California DMV has their “Online Learning And Tests” page). This is where you’ll be guided on how to register for these online tests.
- If you don’t already have one, you’ll have to create an account on the DMV site, and this normally involves providing a valid email address, creating a strong password, and then verifying said email address. If you already have one, then just log in.
- Once you’ve found the registration page for the online written tests on the DMV’s site, you’ll have to fill out a simple registration form. As such, you’ll be asked to type in your name, address, date of birth, as well as your Social Security Number. I’d also suggest that you double-check that this information is correct to avoid any issues down the line.
- The DMV might also ask that you upload copies or photos of personal documents, like proof of identity (i.e. a birth certificate, state ID, or passport), proof of residency in the state (i.e. a utility bill, lease agreement, etc.), and in the states that require that you have a learner’s permit beforehand, you might have to upload a copy of that, too.
3) How Much Are The Fees For Taking Online Tests?
Usually, the fees for taking the DMV’s written test online range from $10 to $30, though the specific amount will vary from one state to another. Additionally, make sure you have a bit of spare change, because some state DMVs might charge additional service fees for processing the online tests and your application.
It’s worth noting that in some states, there are fee waivers or reduced fees that you can take advantage of, particularly for low-income applicants, veterans, and students. I’d recommend checking out your state DMV’s website to figure out the eligibility criteria or process for how you could apply for these fee waivers or reduced fees.
If you’re curious to learn more about what the DMV written tests are like, we’ve previously discussed a few of these topics, including the number of questions that would typically appear on a DMV written test. Also, if you’re keen to learn more about the California DMV’s special tests for senior drivers, check out our article here, and our other detailed guide here.
4) Technical Requirements
Given that you’re taking the DMV written test online, you’ll need a computer and an internet connection. Speaking from experience, I definitely recommend making sure you have reliable and fast internet to prevent any interruptions during your test (such as a random disconnect). With that in mind, if available, a wired internet connection is better than a wireless one.
I mentioned “computer” before, but nowadays (granted, this is subject to each state’s DMV), the online written test can be taken on regular computers, tablets, and even smartphones. It’s a good idea to double-check the state’s DMV website for device compatibility, and what sort of devices are supported (and which ones aren’t), but typically, most operating systems should be supported for taking the test – Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, etc.
While you’re checking that, double-check to see which internet browsers are supported by the DMV. Some DMVs only support specific browsers, but popular ones like Google Chrome, Safari, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge, should be supported. Regardless, to prevent complications, it’s best to avoid logging in and taking the online tests using unsupported browsers. On that note, be sure to turn off any ad-blockers or pop-up blockers on your web browser, as they may interfere with the DMV’s web portal and the online tests.
5) Webcams & Proctoring Software
A lot of state DMVs also mandate the use of a webcam, both to verify your identity, as well as make sure you’re not cheating and referring to study materials. When you’re setting up your webcam, position it so that your face remains visible.
Last but not least, you might also have to download and install specific proctoring software to monitor your screen and surroundings during the duration of the test. The state DMV’s website should have all the details you need for which specific proctoring software to download, and install, and crucially, make sure that you test the software prior to the exam day. Examples of a very commonly used proctoring software would be something like MVProctor.
6) Troubleshooting & Tech Support
As I stressed earlier, definitely test your internet connection, computer (or other device), your webcam, and any mandated proctoring software prior to starting the DMV written test. It’s a good idea to make sure that everything is functioning properly to prevent interruptions during the test, or worse, prevent you from taking the test in the first place.
If you do encounter problems though, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- If your internet connection disconnects, try reconnecting as quickly as possible. Some DMVs may have a feature where you can immediately rejoin and resume the test where you left off.
- Should your browser crash, restart the browser quickly and try logging back into the DMV’s website. Clearing your browser cache might help, too.
- If the proctoring software isn’t working right, the best thing I’ve found is to restart your device and see if it’s able to run again.
Otherwise, if you encounter any other technical issues, you always have the option to contact the DMV’s tech support staff for assistance. Some DMVs have a live chat where you can ask for solutions, and when you’re speaking to them, make sure to include a screenshot of the issue, your account details, and a description of the problem.