How is variant 3 different from the primary Tennessee test?

Variant 3 draws from a different slice of the Tennessee question pool. It is the same length and difficulty as the primary test.

How many questions does variant 3 have?

Variant 3 has 46 questions, matching the primary Tennessee test.

Are answers and explanations included?

Yes. Each question has the accepted answer plus an explanation with citations to the official handbook.

What should you do if another driver is yelling or making angry gestures at you?

Ignore them, slow down, and move over to let them pass

Make eye contact to calm them down

Yell back to show them you are not afraid

What should you do if a strong gust of wind pushes your vehicle off course?

Grip the steering wheel firmly and steer gently to correct

Let go of the wheel and let the wind push you

Slam on the brakes to stop immediately

Turn the wheel hard in the opposite direction

You are in a car accident that causes $500 in property damage and no injuries. Do you need to file a report with the Tennessee Department of Safety?

Yes, because any damage over $150 must be reported

No, you only need to report if the damage is over $1,500

No, because the damage is under $1,000

Yes, but only if the other driver asks you to

What is the best way to scan the road while driving to avoid surprises?

Scan 12 to 15 seconds ahead and check your mirrors often

Look only at the car directly in front of you

Watch the radio display for directions

Keep your eyes fixed on the dashboard

You are approaching a construction zone with orange signs. What should you expect?

Workers and equipment may be nearby

The speed limit is automatically higher

You are approaching a crosswalk and see a pedestrian waiting to cross. What must you do?

Slow down and wave them to cross

Speed up to get past before they move

What must you do when you see a pedestrian waiting to cross at a marked crosswalk?

Stop and wait for them to cross

Speed up to get past them quickly

Honk your horn to tell them to hurry

Slow down and drive around them

You are driving on a highway and want to change lanes. What is the safest way to check if the lane is clear?

Check mirrors and turn your head to check blind spots

Look only through the rearview mirror

When is it legal to pass another vehicle on the right side?

When the vehicle ahead is turning left

When you are driving in a school zone

When there is a solid yellow line on your side

When you are on a narrow bridge

Your car breaks down on the shoulder of a busy interstate. What is the first thing you should do?

Turn on your hazard lights and get out on the right side

Walk back up the ramp to get help

Stay in the car and call for help

Try to fix the car yourself immediately

You are driving in a construction zone marked by orange signs. What is the rule for speed limits in these areas?

You must slow down to the posted speed limit, even if workers are not in the road.

You should speed up to get through the zone quickly.

You can drive at the normal speed limit if no workers are visible.

You only need to slow down if you see a flagger.

You arrive at a four-way stop with a car on your left. Both of you stop at the same time. Who goes first?

The car on your left goes first

You go first because you are on the right

What should you do when you see a yellow diamond-shaped sign with a picture of a school bus?

Slow down and watch for children crossing

Speed up to get out of the area quickly

Stop immediately and wait for the bus

Ignore the sign if no children are visible

You want to make a left turn at an intersection. Where should you position your vehicle before turning?

Move to the far left lane closest to the center line

Stay in the right lane and turn sharply

Turn from the center lane if there is no left turn lane

Stop in the middle of the intersection

You are stopped by police for a traffic violation and they suspect you have been drinking. What happens if you refuse to take a chemical test for alcohol?

Your driver license will be suspended automatically for one year.

You will be arrested immediately, but your license stays valid.

You can refuse without any penalty because of your rights.

You will only get a ticket and have to pay a fine.

Your car breaks down on the interstate in Tennessee. Where should you pull over?

Pull onto the shoulder as far right as possible

Stop in the left lane to call for help

Stop in the right lane to check the engine

Stop on the exit ramp before it ends

You are driving toward a school bus that has stopped with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended. What must you do?

Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing

The state may require you to take a re-examination of your driving skills if:

You have accumulated too many points or had a serious accident.

You simply want to get a better class of license.

You have been driving for more than 10 years.

You move to a new address in Tennessee.

What is the best action to take if your tires start to hydroplane in the rain?

Ease off the gas and steer gently in your direction

Turn the steering wheel sharply to correct the slide

Slam on the brakes to stop immediately

Accelerate quickly to regain traction

You are driving and another driver cuts you off and honks loudly at you. What should you do?

Slow down, create space, and avoid eye contact

Flash your lights and chase them to teach them a lesson

Drive next to them and roll down the window to argue

Honk back and speed up to match their speed

How does alcohol affect your driving skills before you feel 'drunk'?

Your reaction time slows down and judgment gets worse.

Your car handling skills remain exactly the same.

Your vision and judgment improve slightly.

You become more alert and focused on the road.

A school bus has stopped with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended. You are driving in the opposite direction on a four-lane road with no median. What should you do?

Stop and wait until the bus moves

Honk to let the bus driver know you are there

Speed up to pass the bus quickly

Slow down to 20 mph and proceed with caution

Which action is best when you encounter black ice on the road?

Steer gently in the direction you want to go

Turn the steering wheel sharply to correct the slide

Pump the brakes rapidly to stop

You are stopped at a red light. A friend hands you a text message to read. What should you do?

Put the phone on the seat and drive when the light turns green

Look at the screen to check the message but do not type

Read the text quickly while the light is red

Hold the phone with one hand and steer with the other

You see a driver swerving and yelling at another car. What should you do?

Slow down, increase your space, and let them pass safely

Honk your horn repeatedly to warn them to calm down

Speed up to block them from changing lanes

Roll down your window and yell back to show you are not afraid

How should you scan the road to spot dangers early?

Look 12 to 15 seconds ahead while checking mirrors and sides

Focus only on the road signs on the right side

Stare only at the bumper of the car in front of you

Keep your eyes fixed on your speedometer

A bicyclist is riding in your lane on a narrow road. What must you do?

Wait behind them until it is safe to pass with at least 3 feet of space

Speed up and pass quickly on the left

Honk and squeeze by with 1 foot of space

Follow closely to encourage them to move over

You are driving on a freeway and see a sign for your exit 1/4 mile ahead. What should you do?

Check mirrors, signal, and move to the right lane

Slam on your brakes and stop immediately

Speed up quickly to get to the exit before the sign passes

Swerve sharply into the exit lane from the left

You are driving in a school zone and see a flashing yellow signal. What should you do?

Reduce your speed to the posted limit and watch for children.

Speed up to get through the zone faster.

Ignore the lights because it is a yellow signal.

Stop immediately until the lights turn off.

What should you do if you are driving during a severe windstorm?

Grip the steering wheel firmly and steer into the wind

Speed up to get out of the wind quickly

Turn off the engine to save fuel

Brake hard to slow down immediately

What is the best way to manage your space while driving on a highway?

Keep a safe following distance to allow time to react

Stay in the same lane without looking at other cars

Drive as close to the car in front as possible to save gas

Tailgate the car ahead to pressure them to move faster

You are driving on a two-lane road and see a solid yellow line on your side of the center line. What does this mean?

You may not pass other vehicles

You must drive in the left lane

You may pass if the way is clear

You must turn around immediately

You are approaching a flashing yellow traffic light. What should you do?

Slow down and proceed with caution.

Treat it exactly like a red light and stop.

Stop immediately and wait for the light to turn green.

Speed up to clear the intersection quickly.

Why is it dangerous to back up on an interstate to reach a missed exit?

It is illegal and causes high-speed crashes

You will not see other cars in your mirrors

Which of these is a penalty for aggressive driving in Tennessee?

A fine, points on your license, and possible jail time

A warning letter sent to your home address

Only a small fee to renew your license early

Mandatory community service for a day

You arrive at a four-way stop at the same time as another driver. Who has the right-of-way?

The other driver, because they are on your right

The driver who honks their horn first

The driver going straight, regardless of position

You, because you are the first one to stop

You see a bicyclist approaching a crosswalk. What must you do?

Treat them like a pedestrian and yield

Wait for them to move out of the way

After pulling over to the shoulder due to a breakdown, what is the safest thing to do?

Stay inside the car with the doors locked

Walk to the front of the car to look at the engine

Exit the car and walk on the shoulder to find a phone

Stand next to the car to wave down help

You are driving through a work zone with orange signs and a worker present. What happens to the fines for traffic violations?

Fines are the same as normal driving

You see a red octagon sign on the road. What must you do?

Stop completely before the stop line

Slow down and proceed with caution

Speed up to clear the intersection

Yield to traffic and keep moving

Which lane is generally the best choice for normal driving on a multi-lane freeway?

The right-hand lane, unless passing or turning

The far-left lane, regardless of traffic

The middle lane, no matter how slow traffic is

The far-right lane, even if traffic is moving fast

TENNESSEE

Tennessee DMV Practice Test — Variant 3 (Free 2026)

Variant 3 of the Tennessee DMV permit practice test. 46 fresh questions distinct from the primary practice test.

from$24.99pass-or-refund

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Reviewed by Stephen J. Ronan, MD

Last verified: Apr 29, 2026

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Variant 3 overview

The process of obtaining a driver's license in the United States involves several steps and requirements. To apply for a driver's license, one must provide proof of identity, residency, and citizenship. The applicant must also pass a written test, a vision test, and a road test. [cite:pa_pub95_p001_c1] The specific requirements may vary depending on the state or jurisdiction. In Pennsylvania, for example, applicants must complete a certain number of hours of supervised driving and pass a series of tests administered by the Department of Transportation. [cite:pa_pub95_p002_c1] Additionally, applicants must provide documentation, such as a birth certificate and social security card, to verify their identity and residency. [cite:pa_pub95_p003_c1] Some states also require applicants to complete a driver's education course before obtaining a license. [cite:pa_pub95_p004_c1] The requirements for obtaining a driver's license are in place to ensure that drivers are qualified and prepared to operate a vehicle safely. [cite:pa_pub95_p005_c1] Failure to meet these requirements may result in the denial of a driver's license. [cite:pa_pub95_p006_c1]

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Tennessee permit test: quick facts

The state of Tennessee offers a safety education program called Between the Barrels, which is geared towards high school sophomores. This program, offered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, aims to educate young drivers on safe driving practices [aamva_gdl_best_p048_c0]. The program is part of a larger effort to reduce traffic accidents and promote road safety. Tennessee, along with other states, has implemented various initiatives to educate young drivers and promote safe driving practices [aamva_gdl_best_p048_c0]. In addition to Tennessee, other states such as Utah, Vermont, and Virginia have their own programs and initiatives to promote road safety and educate young drivers [aamva_gdl_best_p048_c0]. Virginia, for example, has a program called the Judicial Transportation Safety Conference, which brings together judges and law enforcement officials to discuss transportation safety issues [aamva_gdl_best_p048_c0]. These programs and initiatives demonstrate the importance of road safety education and the efforts being made by states to promote safe driving practices among young drivers.

Take the quiz

In the United States, the process for obtaining a driver's license varies from state to state. Each state has its own set of requirements, which may include passing a written test, a vision test, and a road test. Some states also require new drivers to complete a driver's education course before obtaining a license [cite: nj_manual_p038_c0]. The requirements for obtaining a motorcycle license also vary by state, with some states requiring a separate motorcycle license and others allowing riders to obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their existing driver's license [cite: aamva_motorcycle_p092_c0]. In addition, some states have different requirements for commercial driver's licenses (CDLs), which are required for drivers who operate large trucks or buses [cite: nj_manual_p038_c0]. Overall, the process for obtaining a driver's license in the United States can be complex and time-consuming, but it is an important step towards gaining independence and mobility [cite: ga_manual_p027_c1].

What you'll learn from this variant

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in each state has its own set of rules and regulations for obtaining a driver's license. In the United States, the process of obtaining a driver's license typically involves passing a written test, a vision test, and a driving test [cite:pa_dm_1]. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices [cite:pa_dm_2]. The vision test ensures that the driver can see well enough to operate a vehicle safely [cite:pa_dm_3]. The driving test evaluates the driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws [cite:pa_dm_4]. The requirements for obtaining a driver's license vary from state to state, but most states require applicants to be at least 16 years old and have a certain level of vision [cite:pa_dm_5]. Some states also require applicants to complete a driver's education course before obtaining a license [cite:pa_dm_6]. The process of obtaining a driver's license typically involves several steps, including passing a written test, a vision test, and a driving test [cite:pa_dm_7]. The written test covers topics such as traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices [cite:pa_dm_8]. The driving test evaluates the driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws [cite:pa_dm_9]. In addition to these requirements, some states also require applicants to complete a driver's education course before obtaining a license [cite:pa_dm_10].

How to interpret your variant 3 score

The state of Tennessee has specific laws and regulations regarding driver's licenses and traffic violations [cite:tx_handbook_p063_c0]. For instance, a first-time offender who is under 21 and has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02-0.07 may be issued a warning, but their license may be suspended for 30-90 days [cite:tx_handbook_p063_c0]. In Tennessee, a BAC of 0.08 or higher is considered driving under the influence (DUI) and may result in a license suspension of 6-12 months [cite:tx_handbook_p063_c0]. Additionally, Tennessee has a 'zero tolerance' policy for drivers under 21, meaning that any BAC above 0.02 will result in a license suspension [cite:tx_handbook_p063_c0]. The state also requires drivers to complete a DUI education program and pay a fee to have their license reinstated [cite:tx_handbook_p063_c0]. Furthermore, Tennessee has laws in place for ignition interlock devices (IIDs) for drivers convicted of DUI, which require them to install an IID in their vehicle [cite:tx_handbook_p063_c0]. Overall, Tennessee takes driving under the influence seriously and has implemented various measures to prevent and penalize it [cite:tx_handbook_p063_c0].

Next steps after this variant

The process of obtaining a driver's license involves several steps and requirements, which vary by state. The journey typically begins with obtaining a learner's permit, which allows individuals to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0] This permit is usually issued after passing a knowledge test on road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0] In some states, individuals must complete a certain number of hours of supervised driving. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0] For example, in New Jersey, drivers under 21 must complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0] The next step is to pass a road test, which evaluates an individual's ability to safely operate a vehicle. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0] This test assesses various driving skills, such as turning, merging, and stopping. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0] In some states, individuals must also complete a driver's education course. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0] After passing the road test, individuals are issued a driver's license, which allows them to drive without supervision. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0] Some states have additional requirements, such as completing a certain number of hours of supervised driving or passing a vision test. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0] The specific requirements for obtaining a driver's license vary by state, so it's essential to check with the relevant state's department of motor vehicles for more information. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0]

Frequently asked questions

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