Permit Test Study Guide: for 16-17 yr olds

Since you're 16, I'm assuming you're taking the Connecticut learner's permit test. The test is 25 multiple-choice questions, and you need 20 correct (80%) to pass. The questions come directly from the Connecticut Driver's Manual.

Here are the topics that are tested the most:

🚦 Right-of-way

Know who goes first in these situations:

  • At a 4-way stop: first to stop goes first; if tied, the driver on the right goes first.

  • Pedestrians always have the right-of-way in crosswalks.

  • When turning left, yield to oncoming traffic.

  • Emergency vehicles with lights/sirens: pull over to the right and stop.

🚥 Traffic lights

  • Solid red: Stop completely. Right turn is allowed after stopping unless a sign prohibits it.

  • Yellow: Stop if you can do so safely. Don't speed up.

  • Flashing red: Treat like a stop sign.

  • Flashing yellow: Slow down and proceed cautiously.

  • Red arrow: Can’t take left turn

🛑 Signs

Memorize these:

  • Red octagon = STOP

  • Upside-down triangle = YIELD

  • Yellow diamond = WARNING!

  • White rectangle = regulatory (speed limits, etc.)

  • Yellow diamond = warning

  • Orange = construction/work zone

  • Green = directions

  • Blue = services

  • Brown = recreation/parks

🛣 Pavement markings

  • Solid yellow: No passing.

  • Broken yellow: Passing allowed if safe.

  • Double solid yellow: Never pass.

  • Solid white: Stay in lane.

  • Broken white: Lane changes permitted.

🚗 Following distance

  • Use at least the 3-second rule in good conditions.

  • Increase following distance in rain, snow, darkness, or behind motorcycles.

🚸 School buses

Stop for a school bus with flashing red lights and stop arm extended unless you're on the opposite side of a divided highway.

📱 Cell phones (VERY common)

Because you're 16:

  • No cell phone use whatsoever while driving.

  • That includes hands-free devices.

  • The only exception is an emergency.

🍺 Alcohol

For drivers under 21:

  • Connecticut has zero tolerance.

  • Never drink and drive.

🚧 Speed

Remember:

  • Drive at a speed that's safe for conditions—even if it's below the posted limit.

  • Slow down in rain, snow, fog, curves, school zones, and work zones.

🚘 Parking

Never park:

  • In front of a fire hydrant.

  • In front of a driveway.

  • On a crosswalk.

  • Too close to intersections.

  • In a handicap spot without a permit.

🚙 Turning

  • Signal at least 100 feet before turning.

  • Turn into the nearest legal lane.

🚲 Sharing the road

Give bicyclists plenty of room, watch for pedestrians, and never drive in a bike lane unless allowed for turning.

🚔 Emergency vehicles

If an emergency vehicle approaches with lights and siren:

  • Pull to the right.

  • Stop.

  • Stay stopped until it passes.

Connecticut teen laws (know these)

After you get your license:

  • First 6 months: No passengers except a parent/legal guardian, licensed instructor, or a qualified adult age 20+ with at least 4 years of licensed driving.

  • Months 7–12: Immediate family passengers are allowed.

  • Curfew: No driving 11 PM–5 AM except for work, school, religious activities, medical necessity, or certain approved exceptions.

  • Always wear a seat belt.