How is variant 4 different from the primary Tennessee test?

Variant 4 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 4 have?

Variant 4 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 is the safest way to handle black ice on the road?

Avoid braking or accelerating suddenly; slow down early

Brake gently to slow down before the patch

Accelerate quickly to cross the ice faster

Turn the steering wheel to wiggle the car free

You are driving with a friend who has a bottle of beer on the floor of the car. Is this legal in Tennessee?

No, open containers are illegal in the passenger area.

Yes, if the bottle is in the trunk.

Yes, as long as the driver is not drinking.

No, unless the driver is over 21 years old.

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

The driver who is in a larger vehicle

What is the best way to enter a Tennessee freeway safely?

Match your speed to traffic while merging

Yell at other drivers to move over

Stop on the shoulder and wait for a gap

Drive slowly and let traffic pass you

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

Why must you give motorcycles and bicycles extra room when passing them?

They need more space to balance and avoid road hazards

They travel much faster than cars on highways

They are required by law to ride on the shoulder

They cannot see you in your side mirrors

Which lights should you use when driving in heavy fog?

Low beam headlights and fog lights if available

A driver cuts you off and then speeds away. You feel angry and want to chase them. What should you do?

Stay calm, let them go, and focus on your own safe driving

Pull out of your lane to block them

Speed up and honk to show them you are angry

Flash your lights to warn other drivers

You are driving on a multi-lane interstate. Which lane should you use for normal driving?

The far-right lane, unless you are passing

The middle lane, even if you are driving slowly

Any lane you prefer, as long as you signal

The far-left lane, because it is the fastest

When driving near a large truck, why is it dangerous to stay in the truck's blind spot?

The truck driver cannot see you in their side mirrors

Large trucks are more likely to hit other vehicles

The truck's engine noise will distract you from the road

The truck needs more space to stop than a car

When must you turn on your headlights between sunset and sunrise in Tennessee?

From one half-hour after sunset until one half-hour before sunrise

Only when you feel like you cannot see well

Only if the weather is rainy or foggy

One hour after sunset until one hour before sunrise

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

A construction zone sign is orange. What should you expect to see on the road?

Workers or equipment may be near the road

The road is closed to all traffic

When driving near a large truck, why should you avoid driving in the blind spots?

The truck driver cannot see you from the side or rear

It is illegal to drive next to trucks

Large trucks use less fuel in those zones

The wind from the truck is too strong

How does alcohol affect your driving skills after just one or two drinks?

It can slow your reaction time and hurt your judgment

It makes you a safer driver because you are more relaxed

It only affects your driving if you feel drunk

It improves your night vision and coordination

If your vehicle starts to skid on a wet road, how should you steer?

Steer in the direction the rear of the car is sliding

Keep the wheel straight and wait for it to stop

Steer sharply in the opposite direction of the skid

Slam on the brakes to stop immediately

You see a school bus stopped on the other side of a four-lane road (two lanes in your direction, two in the opposite). The bus has flashing red lights and a stop sign arm out. What must you do?

Stop and wait until the bus moves

Slow down to 20 mph and pass carefully

Only stop if children are actually in your lane

When you get a Tennessee driver's license, what do you agree to? You agree to these terms when you sign the application.

To take a breath or blood test if asked by an officer.

To pay a fine if you drive too fast.

To let the police search your car without a reason.

To attend a driving school if you get a ticket.

A bicyclist is riding on the road in your lane. What must you do to pass them safely?

Slow down and pass with at least 3 feet of clearance

Pass them without changing lanes if there is room

Follow closely until they move to the shoulder

Honk your horn and speed up to pass quickly

You are driving and your front tire suddenly blows out. How should you recover?

Grip the steering wheel tight and ease off the gas

Steer hard in the opposite direction of the blowout

Slam on the brakes to stop as fast as possible

Turn off the cruise control and pull over immediately

When making a right turn, where should your vehicle be positioned?

Close to the right curb or edge

In the left lane to turn sharply

In the center of the road to turn wide

In the middle of the intersection

What is the penalty for aggressive driving in Tennessee?

You may face fines, license suspension, and even jail time

You only get a warning if you are a new driver

You must attend a driving class but pay no fine

You lose your points but keep your license forever

What does a solid yellow line on your side of the road tell you about passing?

You must not pass other vehicles

You may pass if the way is clear

You must change lanes to the right

You see a school bus stopped on the other side of a four-lane road with its red lights flashing. What should you do?

Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing

Speed up to get past the bus quickly

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

You must not pass other vehicles.

You can pass only if the other car is moving slowly.

You may pass other cars whenever you want.

The road is ending and you must turn.

You are driving in a single lane and see a school bus ahead with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended. What is the required action?

Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing and the arm is retracted

Honk your horn to let the bus driver know you are there

Slow down and drive slowly past the bus

Change lanes and speed up to pass quickly

You are parked on the side of the road and want to pull out into traffic. What should you do first?

Check your mirrors and look over your shoulder for blind spots

Accelerate quickly to get into the lane fast

Honk your horn to tell other cars you are moving

Turn on your high beams to signal your move

You are driving on a two-lane road and see a police car parked on the shoulder with its lights flashing. What must you do?

Slow down and stay in your lane if it is safe to do so

Stop your car immediately in the middle of the road

Honk your horn to warn the officer

Speed up to get past the officer quickly

Why is scanning the road ahead important for defensive driving?

It allows you to find hazards early and plan your move

It lets you look at your GPS more often

It helps you memorize the names of the streets

It helps you see the color of the other cars

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

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

What is the safest action to take when driving in very high winds?

Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and reduce speed

Turn on your high beams to see the wind

Speed up to get through the wind quickly

Drive in the center of the lane to avoid wind

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

What should you do if your tires lose contact with the road and start to hydroplane?

Ease off the gas and steer gently in your intended direction

Accelerate quickly to regain traction

Turn the steering wheel sharply to correct the slide

Slam on the brakes to stop immediately

You are driving at night. A traffic signal turns solid yellow. What should you do?

Honk your horn and drive through

When you see a flashing yellow light at an intersection, what is the correct action?

Slow down and proceed with caution

Speed up to clear the intersection quickly

Treat it exactly like a solid red light

Stop completely, then proceed when safe

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

What is the safest way to use your lights when driving in thick fog?

Use your low beams and fog lights if available

Turn off your headlights to avoid glare

Use your high beams to see further

You are driving with your 6-year-old son. He is in a forward-facing car seat. What is the most important thing to remember?

Keep him in the back seat with his car seat.

Let him sit in the front seat with the airbag on.

Let him sit in the front seat if he wears a seat belt.

Move him to the back seat but remove the car seat.

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 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

TENNESSEE

Tennessee DMV Practice Test — Variant 4 (Free 2026)

Variant 4 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 4 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 first meet the eligibility criteria, which typically includes being at least 16 years old, having a valid Social Security number, and providing proof of residency [pa_p05_c01]. The applicant must then study for and pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs [pa_p05_c02]. After passing the written test, the applicant is issued a learner's permit, which allows them to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver [pa_p05_c03]. Once they have completed the required number of supervised driving hours, they can take a driving test to obtain a provisional license [pa_p05_c04]. A provisional license typically has certain restrictions, such as a curfew and a limit on the number of passengers [pa_p05_c05]. After meeting these requirements and gaining sufficient driving experience, the driver can apply for a full license [pa_p05_c06]. In some states, drivers are also required to complete a driver's education course, which covers topics such as defensive driving and road safety [pa_p05_c07]. 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 (DMV) for detailed information [cite:pa_p05].

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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, like other states, has its own set of rules and regulations for obtaining a driver's license, including requirements for learner's permits, provisional licenses, and full licenses [aamva_gdl_best_p023_c0]. In addition to safety education programs, Tennessee also offers resources for new drivers, such as driver education courses and practice tests. These resources help new drivers prepare for the written test and the driving test, and they also provide information on safe driving practices [aamva_gdl_best_p023_c0]. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security also provides information on driver licensing and traffic safety [aamva_gdl_best_p048_c0]. Overall, Tennessee has a comprehensive approach to driver education and safety, which includes programs like Between the Barrels and resources for new drivers.

Take the quiz

The Motorcycle Licensing process varies across different states in the US. In general, applicants must pass a series of tests, including a knowledge test, a vision test, and a skills test. The requirements for obtaining a motorcycle license differ from state to state, with some states requiring a certain number of hours of training or a specific type of motorcycle safety course. [cite: aam_moto_license_requirements] For example, in California, applicants must complete a motorcycle safety course and pass a written test and a skills test. [cite: ca_moto_license_requirements] In New York, applicants must pass a written test, a vision test, and a road test. [cite: ny_moto_license_requirements] Additionally, some states have different requirements for motorcycle endorsements, such as a separate test for operating a motorcycle with a sidecar. [cite: aam_moto_endorsement_requirements] It's essential to check with the specific state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the most up-to-date information on motorcycle licensing requirements. [cite: aam_moto_requirements]

What you'll learn from this variant

The process of obtaining a driver's license involves several steps and requirements. To start, one must apply for a learner's permit, which typically involves passing a written test on traffic laws and road signs [cite:pa]. The permit allows the individual to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver. After completing a certain number of hours of supervised driving, the individual can take a road test to obtain a driver's license [cite:pa_road_test]. The road test evaluates the individual's ability to safely operate a vehicle and follow traffic laws [cite:road_test_requirements]. In some states, individuals may be required to complete a driver's education course before obtaining a license [cite:drivers_education]. The requirements for obtaining a driver's license vary by state, but most states require a combination of written and practical tests [cite:requirements_vary].

How to interpret your variant 4 score

The state of Tennessee has specific laws and regulations regarding driver's licenses and traffic violations [a1]. In Tennessee, the Department of Safety issues driver's licenses and enforces traffic laws [a2]. The state has a points system for traffic violations, with drivers earning points for each offense [a3]. Drivers who accumulate too many points can face penalties such as license suspension or revocation [a4]. Additionally, Tennessee has laws regarding seat belt use, child safety seats, and motorcycle helmets [a5]. The state also has specific regulations for commercial driver's licenses and vehicle inspections [a6].

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: pa_pub95_p006_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 ] After meeting these requirements, individuals can take a road test to demonstrate their driving skills. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] The road test evaluates a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0 ] In some states, drivers must also complete a certain number of hours of supervised driving. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_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 ] After meeting these requirements, individuals can take a road test to demonstrate their driving skills. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] The road test evaluates a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0 ] In some states, drivers must also complete a driver's education course. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] For example, in Pennsylvania, drivers under 18 must complete a driver's education course before obtaining a license. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] The driver's education course covers topics such as safe driving practices, traffic laws, and vehicle maintenance. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] After completing the course, individuals can take a road test to demonstrate their driving skills. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] The road test evaluates a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0 ] In some states, drivers must also complete a certain number of hours of supervised driving. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_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 ] After meeting these requirements, individuals can take a road test to demonstrate their driving skills. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] The road test evaluates a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0 ] In some states, drivers must also complete a driver's education course. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] For example, in Pennsylvania, drivers under 18 must complete a driver's education course before obtaining a license. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] The driver's education course covers topics such as safe driving practices, traffic laws, and vehicle maintenance. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] After completing the course, individuals can take a road test to demonstrate their driving skills. [cite: pa_pub95_p006_c0 ] The road test evaluates a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. [cite: nj_manual_p036_c0 ]

Frequently asked questions

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