Pennsylvania permit test: distracted & drowsy driving
Phone and texting laws, other distractions and fatigue. 6 questions.
What is the fine for a conviction under Pennsylvania's anti-texting law, as listed in the manual?
Keyboard: press 1–4 or A–D to answer, Enter for the next question, S to save, R to read aloud, P to pause reading, L to listen and answer.
Sample distracted & drowsy driving questions
What is the fine for a conviction under Pennsylvania's anti-texting law, as listed in the manual?
- A $500
- B $300
- C $50
- D $25
Show answer
C. $50
Texting while driving in Pennsylvania is a primary, summary offense with a $50 fine. Primary means police can stop you for texting alone, without seeing another violation.
Pennsylvania's texting ban does NOT cover which of the following?
- A Reading an instant message on a tablet
- B Sending an email from a smartphone
- C Typing a text on a portable computer
- D Using a GPS device
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D. Using a GPS device
The texting ban covers texts, instant messages and emails on phones, tablets and computers. It does not include a GPS device or a system built into the vehicle. Since June 5, 2025, a separate law (Paul Miller's Law) also bans using a hand-held phone or other interactive mobile device while driving, even when stopped in traffic.
According to the Pennsylvania manual, how may a driver use headphones or ear pieces?
- A In both ears, for music only
- B Only in one ear, for communication purposes
- C In both ears, at low volume
- D Only when stopped at a red light
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B. Only in one ear, for communication purposes
Headphones or ear pieces may be used in only one ear, and only for communication. Hearing warns you of sirens, horns and trains, so you need at least one ear free.
You start to feel sleepy while driving. What is the best thing to do?
- A Turn up the radio
- B Open a window for cold air
- C Stop driving
- D Drink a cup of coffee and keep going
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C. Stop driving
When you feel tired, the best thing to do is stop driving. Even a few seconds of sleep at the wheel can kill you, and tricks like radio or cold air do not cure fatigue.