Failed RMV written test twice — what am I missing in my study routine? — Forums

Samantha C.OP

May 27, 2026

So I've now failed the Massachusetts RMV written test twice and I'm honestly at a loss. First time I got a 68% (need 72% to pass), second time a 70%. I've been reading the driver's manual cover to cover but clearly something isn't clicking. A coworker suggested I try an RMV practice test site to get used to the actual question format, which I hadn't really done before — I was just rereading chapters like it was a textbook exam.

The questions that keep tripping me up are the ones about road signs I don't see every day and right-of-way scenarios at uncontrolled intersections. I have my third attempt scheduled for two weeks from now and I really can't afford to fail again (took time off work both times). Has anyone gone through this same struggle and found a study guide or specific approach that finally made it click? How many hours should I realistically be putting in?

Alex G.

May 28, 2026

I was in the exact same boat last year — failed twice, passed on my third try with an 88%. What changed for me was switching from just reading to actively doing practice questions every single day for about 10 days straight. The road signs section is notorious for catching people off guard because the manual kind of buries them. I'd spend at least 30 minutes specifically drilling signs until they felt automatic. Also, for right-of-way stuff, there are really only about 5 core rules — just memorize those scenarios cold.

Preethi N.

May 28, 2026

Honestly the manual is kind of a terrible study tool on its own because the test doesn't ask things in the same order or framing. The real exam loves situational questions — like 'you're approaching a four-way stop and a pedestrian is halfway across the crosswalk, what do you do?' type stuff. I found that doing timed practice sets helped with test anxiety too. My main exam tips: don't rush, re-read every question twice, and never change your first answer unless you're 100% sure you misread something.

Chris D.

May 28, 2026

Two weeks is plenty of time if you're strategic about it. Don't just study everything equally — go back through your wrong answers from the actual tests and focus there. Signs and right-of-way rules probably account for 30-40% of questions. You've got this, third time really is the charm for most people.

Failed RMV written test twice — what am I missing in my study routine?

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