Driving Test Difficulty by State in United States
Siegfried & Jensen's study ranks the difficulty of driving tests across U.S. states, offering insights into which regions have the most challenging or lenient requirements for obtaining a driver's license. Difficulty scores are rated out of 100, reflecting the rigor of testing standards.
Which states have the most difficult driving tests?
Washington – 80
Massachusetts – 77
Maryland – 75
South Carolina – 73
Kansas – 72
Virginia – 71
Kentucky – 70
District of Columbia – 69
Oklahoma – 69
New Mexico – 68
Which states have the easiest driving tests?
South Dakota – 42
Ohio – 45
New York – 49
Arkansas – 49
Nevada – 54
Arizona – 53
Colorado – 52
Nebraska – 52
Utah – 57
Illinois – 57
How does Washington compare to other states?
Washington ranks as the state with the most difficult driving test, scoring 80 out of 100. Its high difficulty reflects rigorous testing procedures, stricter requirements, and comprehensive driving exams, making it a challenging state for aspiring drivers.
Which regions report the highest driving test difficulty?
The Northeast and Pacific Northwest dominate the list of states with challenging driving tests, with Massachusetts, Maryland, and Washington among the top-ranked. These regions often emphasize stricter testing standards and more comprehensive assessments of driving skills.
How do urbanized areas rank for driving test difficulty?
Urbanized areas like the District of Columbia rank highly in difficulty (69), reflecting the complexities of driving in dense traffic environments and navigating unique challenges like roundabouts, heavy congestion, and limited parking spaces.
Where does New York rank in driving test difficulty?
New York scores 49, placing it among the states with easier driving tests. Despite its reputation for heavy traffic, the state's relatively lenient testing requirements contribute to its lower ranking compared to states like Washington or Massachusetts.
What factors influence the difficulty of driving tests?
Key factors include the length and complexity of road tests, written exam standards, traffic conditions, and specific state laws. States with stricter requirements often aim to improve road safety and ensure drivers are well-prepared for real-world scenarios.
