Failed MT DMV written test twice, what am I missing?

Kevin O.OP

May 27, 2026

Okay so I'm pretty embarrassed to admit this but I've failed the Montana DMV written test twice now and I'm starting to lose confidence. First time I scored a 72% and needed a 76%, second time I got a 74%. Both times I studied for maybe 2-3 days just reading through the handbook, and clearly that's not cutting it.

I finally broke down and started using an MT DMV practice test online and honestly I'm realizing how many road sign questions I've been getting wrong — I thought I knew them but there are some weird ones I'd never paid attention to. I also found a study guide that breaks down right-of-way rules way better than the handbook does. Is there a specific section people struggle with most? I'm scheduling my third attempt for two weeks out and I really can't afford the $12 fee again.

Any tips from people who passed recently would be huge. Specifically wondering if the actual test leans heavy on road signs vs traffic laws, or is it pretty evenly split?

Nicole F.

May 28, 2026

Road signs definitely tripped me up too. I'd say maybe 30-35% of my test was signs, including some of the less common warning signs. What helped me was doing timed practice tests rather than just reading — when you're under pressure you realize which ones you actually know vs which ones you were just guessing. I passed with an 88% after about a week of that approach.

lisa.prep

May 28, 2026

The right-of-way stuff is where most people I know lose points. Specifically the uncontrolled intersection rules and who yields when two cars arrive at the same time. The handbook explains it but it's kind of buried. If you can nail those scenarios plus the school bus stopping rules you'll probably pick up the 2-3 points you're missing. Two weeks of focused studying is honestly more than enough time.

Jordan L.

May 28, 2026

Don't stress too much — third time was the charm for my brother too. Just make sure you're doing practice questions every single day leading up to it, not just the night before. Consistency beats cramming every time.

Failed MT DMV written test twice, what am I missing?

Join the Discussion

Related Discussions