Oregon · Oregon DMV Knowledge Test

Oregon Driver's License Practice Test 2025

Oregon's DMV — part of the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) — administers the 35-question knowledge test requiring 80% (28/35) to pass. Oregon has several legally unique characteristics: the Basic Speed Rule (ORS 811.100) that allows citation below the posted speed limit, a cannabis DUI law with no per se THC limit (unlike Washington or Colorado), studded tire season restrictions, and HB 2597 (2017) — one of the first state laws to ban even holding a device while driving.

Test at a Glance

Total Questions
35
Questions to Pass
28
Passing Score
80%
Min Permit Age
15 years
Based On
Oregon Driver Handbook (2026)
Official HandbookStart Full Practice Test

Official source: Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services

About the Oregon Oregon DMV Knowledge Test

Oregon's Basic Speed Rule (ORS 811.100) is the most legally significant and frequently misunderstood driving law in the state. The rule states that a driver commits the offense of driving too fast for conditions if their speed is 'greater than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the traffic, surface, and width of the highway, the hazard at intersections, weather and visibility conditions.' The crucial implication: a driver can be cited for traveling too fast even while traveling below the posted speed limit. If you are driving at 55 mph on an ice-covered road posted at 55 mph and lose control, you may be cited for violating the Basic Speed Rule — because 55 mph was not reasonable and prudent for icy conditions. Oregon courts and law enforcement take this rule seriously, and it is a consistently tested topic on the Oregon DMV knowledge exam. Drivers must always assess actual conditions — not just check against the posted limit.

Oregon legalized recreational cannabis in 2014, but Oregon's impaired driving law for cannabis is distinctly different from Washington and Colorado, which use specific THC blood concentration thresholds (5 ng/mL). Oregon has no per se THC limit. Instead, Oregon's cannabis DUI (ORS 813.010) uses an 'under the influence' standard — meaning that an officer's observation of impairment (field sobriety test performance, physical signs, driving behavior) determines impairment rather than a measured THC level. This matters because THC metabolites can remain in the bloodstream for days or weeks after the effects of cannabis wear off; a per se limit would criminalize sober drivers who simply consumed cannabis previously. Oregon instead relies on actual impairment evidence. Oregon's DUI threshold is 0.08% BAC for adults; drivers under 21 face a per se standard of 0.00% for alcohol (any detectable amount is a per se DUI). HB 2597 (2017) banned holding a wireless device while driving — earlier than most states.

Oregon's studded tire rules are specific and seasonal. Studded snow tires are permitted from November 1 through March 31 throughout the state. ODOT may extend or adjust these dates in certain areas based on weather conditions. Studded tires improve traction on ice but cause accelerated pavement wear — which is why their use is restricted to the winter season. ODOT occasionally posts chain control requirements on mountain passes (Santiam, McKenzie, Crater Lake Highway) during severe winter events — chain control postings supersede personal judgment. Oregon's Cascades, Coast Range, and Blue Mountains all see significant winter weather requiring appropriate tire and chain preparation. Oregon DMV also tests drivers on appropriate use of headlights in rain and fog — Oregon's coastal regions experience some of the densest fog in the United States, and driving with headlights in fog (not high beams, which reflect off fog) is covered in the driver manual.

Key Oregon Traffic Laws You Must Know

These rules appear frequently on the Oregon knowledge test.

Basic Speed Rule: cited below posted limit
ORS 811.100: you may be cited for driving too fast for conditions even if below the posted limit. Speed must be 'reasonable and prudent' for actual road, weather, and traffic conditions.
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Cannabis DUI: no per se THC limit
Oregon's cannabis DUI uses an 'under the influence' standard — no specific THC ng/mL threshold. Impairment is assessed by officer field sobriety evaluation, not blood THC level.
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Studded tires: November 1 – March 31
Studded snow tires permitted November 1 through March 31. Mountain passes may require chains via ODOT chain control orders. Remove studs outside the permitted season.
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Hands-free required since 2017 (HB 2597)
Oregon banned physically holding a wireless device while driving in 2017 — one of the earliest states. Any physical contact with a held device while moving is prohibited.
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DUII: 0.08% adults; 0.00% under-21
Oregon uses DUII (Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants). 0.08% BAC for adults; 0.00% per se impairment for drivers under 21; 0.04% for CDL holders in a CMV.
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Instruction permit at 15, license at 16
Instruction permit at 15; must hold for at least 6 months, then complete 100 hours of supervised driving (or 50 hours plus an ODOT-approved traffic safety course), supervised only by a licensed driver 21+ with at least 3 years of driving experience, before applying for a license at 16.
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Under-18 licensing is application-based, not a separate stage
Oregon's Driver Manual doesn't describe a distinct 'Provisional License' stage with its own curfew or passenger cap — the requirement is a one-time permit-hold-and-hours gate before the regular license is issued.
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Move Over: covers amber flashing vehicles too
Oregon's Move Over law (ORS 811.147) applies to emergency, utility, tow trucks, AND vehicles with amber flashing lights — broader than most state Move Over laws.

Oregon Oregon DMV Knowledge Test — Sample Questions

Select an answer to see instant feedback and explanation.

Answered: 0/10Score: 0/10 correct
1

Oregon's Basic Speed Rule (ORS 811.100) means a driver can be cited for driving too fast even if they are below the posted speed limit. Under what conditions does this rule apply?

2

Oregon's cannabis DUI law differs from Washington and Colorado in which critical way?

3

Oregon's studded tire rules allow use from November 1 through March 31. What happens if a driver uses studded tires outside this period?

4

Oregon's HB 2597 (2017) made Oregon one of the first states to ban what driving behavior?

5

Oregon's DUI law applies what BAC standard to drivers who are under 21?

6

Oregon's Move Over law (ORS 811.147) is broader than most states because it covers which additional category of vehicles beyond emergency responders?

7

When driving in Oregon's coastal fog zones, which headlight setting should drivers use?

8

Oregon's chain control requirement on mountain passes: what must drivers do when ODOT posts a 'Chains Required' order?

9

An Oregon instruction permit holder under 18 wants to apply for a license at 16. What must they show before DMV will issue it?

10

In Oregon, what is the required minimum following distance when driving on highways posted above 45 mph?

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Frequently Asked Questions — Oregon Oregon DMV Knowledge Test

What makes Oregon's Basic Speed Rule different from just following posted speed limits?

Oregon's Basic Speed Rule (ORS 811.100) creates a legal standard that goes beyond the posted limit: you must drive at a speed that is 'reasonable and prudent' for actual road and weather conditions — even if that means driving below the posted limit. A driver going 65 mph on an ice-covered road can be cited for the Basic Speed Rule even if 65 mph is the posted limit. Conversely, driving at 50 mph in dense fog on a 65 mph highway is the legally correct choice. The Basic Speed Rule means Oregon law holds drivers accountable for judgment, not just rule-following.

Oregon legalized cannabis — does that make it legal to drive with cannabis in the car?

Oregon permits adults 21+ to possess and transport cannabis in a vehicle, but it must be in a sealed, child-resistant container if the packaging has been opened. Open cannabis containers visible to passengers are not permitted while driving. And most critically: driving while impaired by cannabis is a DUI — regardless of legal purchase or use. Oregon's DUI law has no per se THC limit, but impairment is assessed by officer observation and DRE (Drug Recognition Expert) evaluation. Cannabis DUI carries the same penalties as alcohol DUI in Oregon.

What are Oregon's studded tire rules and how do they differ from chains?

Studded snow tires are permitted in Oregon from November 1 through March 31. Using them outside this season is a traffic infraction. Chains are separate — they may be required by ODOT chain control postings on mountain passes at any point during winter and are not subject to the studded tire seasonal restriction. During chain control, studded tires do NOT satisfy the chain requirement. Many Oregon mountain drivers carry chains in the trunk from October through April even if they're using studs, because ODOT can post chain control requirements that mandate chains specifically.

What does Oregon actually require for drivers under 18 to get licensed?

Oregon's Driver Manual describes a permit-and-hours requirement rather than a multi-stage program with its own curfew or passenger limits. To apply for a license, an applicant must be at least 16, must have held an instruction permit (available at 15) for at least 6 months, and must complete 100 hours of supervised driving experience — or 50 hours plus an ODOT-approved traffic safety education course, with proof of completion. The supervising driver must be at least 21 years old and must have held valid driving privileges for at least 3 years. There is no separate nighttime curfew or passenger-count restriction documented for young Oregon drivers once licensed.

What is Oregon's DUI penalty for a first offense?

Oregon first DUI: Class A misdemeanor (if BAC is between 0.08% and 0.14%): minimum 48 hours in jail (or 80 hours community service), $1,000 fine, 1-year license suspension. If BAC is 0.15% or higher ('aggravated DUI'): minimum 48 hours jail (less reduction for community service), $2,000 minimum fine, same 1-year suspension. Ignition interlock device: required for reinstatement after any DUI in Oregon. Oregon uses 'DUII' (Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants) as the official term — covering alcohol, controlled substances, and cannabis under one charge category.

What does Oregon law require at railroad crossings?

Oregon requires drivers to stop when flashing red lights are activated, a train is visible or close enough to be hazardous, a stop sign is posted at the crossing (even with no visible train), or a flagger signals to stop. Stop at the stop line if there is one; otherwise stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail. Never stop on the tracks, and never drive around or under a crossing gate while it's down, or while it's being raised or lowered. School buses, hazmat vehicles, and some school activity vehicles are required to stop at railroad tracks regardless of signals — be ready to stop behind one.

Does Oregon require a road skills test for all new drivers?

Oregon requires a road skills (driving) test for all new applicants — including adults who have never held a license in any state. The road test must be taken in the applicant's own or a borrowed vehicle, which must be properly registered and insured. Oregon DMV schedules road tests by appointment at driver licensing offices. The test evaluates vehicle control, lane use, intersection navigation, parking (parallel park in some offices), and observance of traffic signs and signals. Adult applicants who transfer a valid out-of-state license may be exempt from the Oregon road test; adults from countries without driver license reciprocity must take the full road test.

What are Oregon's minimum auto insurance requirements?

Oregon requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/20: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 property damage. Oregon also requires Personal Injury Protection (PIP) of at least $15,000 per person and uninsured motorist coverage of at least 25/50. Oregon's mandatory uninsured motorist coverage protects you if you're hit by an uninsured driver. PIP covers your medical expenses regardless of fault. Proof of insurance must be carried in the vehicle. Oregon DMV participates in electronic insurance verification — insurance companies report coverage directly to Oregon DMV.

What is Oregon's policy for drivers with medical conditions that may affect safe driving?

Oregon DMV has a Medical Advisory Board that reviews license applications and renewals from drivers with medical conditions that may impair safe driving — including seizure disorders, certain cardiac conditions, vision impairments, and cognitive conditions. A driver or their physician may report a potentially impairing medical condition to Oregon DMV. The DMV may require medical clearance (physician certification of safe driving ability) before issuing or renewing a license. Oregon also accepts reports from law enforcement and courts about medical fitness to drive. Drivers who disagree with a medical restriction or suspension decision may request a hearing.

How does Oregon's Open Container law work?

Oregon prohibits open alcoholic beverage containers in the passenger area of a motor vehicle while on a public road (ORS 811.170). Unlike Louisiana, Oregon's prohibition applies to both driver and passengers — no one in the passenger compartment may have an open container. 'Open' means the container has been opened (seal broken) or a portion has been consumed. Closed, sealed containers may be transported. Wine from a restaurant may be transported if the bottle is resealed with the original cork, placed in a bag, and kept out of the driver's reach. Violations are Class B traffic infractions.

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