Ohio written test scoring: 30 of 40, three places to take it

The Ohio BMV sets the knowledge test at 40 multiple choice questions covering motor vehicle regulations and traffic signs, and requires 75 percent correct, which works out to 30 of 40. That leaves a margin of ten wrong answers, and an eleventh ends the attempt. Signs are scored together with everything else on the paper rather than as a separate section with its own bar. Passing the knowledge test and the vision screening is what earns the Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card, the TIPIC, and an applicant can begin that process at 15 years and six months of age.

Ohio offers three routes to the same exam: online through BMV Online Services, at select deputy registrar locations, or at any driver exam station. Testing online defers the vision screening, which is then done at the deputy registrar agency when you buy the permit. It also costs you attempts rather than money, because online knowledge testing is limited to two attempts in a six month period while in person attempts carry no cap. Either way, an applicant who fails must wait at least 24 hours before retesting. Once you pass, the permit itself has to be bought at a deputy registrar agency within 60 days, and under 16 a TIPIC holder needs a parent, guardian or licensed driving instructor in the passenger seat.