District of Columbia Tests

Welcome to the District of Columbia tests page, with resources on tests and testing services in Washington DC in such areas as academic tests, professional licensing exams and driving tests.

Academic Tests

District of Columbia’s Comprehensive Assessment System (DC CAS) - Students in DC have to take the DC CAS tests. They are tested in reading and math each year in grades 3-8. A science test is administered in grades 5, 8 and 10. A composition test is required in grades 4, 7 and 10.

Professional Tests

DC Massage Therapist Exams and Licensing - Find information on what is required to become a licensed massage therapist in the District of Columbia.

DC Barber Exams and Licensing - The Barber Licensing Exam for the District of Columbia is given in January, April, July and October of each year. All applications have to be submitted at least 60 days in advance and must include a copy of the candidate’s educational certificate. Applicants must also pay a $55 testing fee.

DC Real Estate Testing and Licensing - The Real Estate Commission’s licensure exam for DC agents is handled through Pearson Vue. The computerized test is multiple choice, but a score of 75 percent or greater is required for a candidate to pass. Only about 60 percent of candidates pass on their first attempt. 

Driver's Tests

DC Driving Tests - Residents of the District of Columbia have to obtain a DC driver’s license unless they are eligible for reciprocity. An eye test, a skills road test and a knowledge test are required of all first-time license applicants. The license may be valid for up to eight years.

DC Commerical Driving Tests - Applications for a commercial driver’s license must be submitted at the Brentwood CDL center. All applicants must pass the knowledge test and a vision exam to obtain a learner’s permit. They can then schedule the CDL road skills test. It is given only at the Commercial Driver’s License Road Test Lot.

DC Motorcycle Tests - The District of Columbia requires all motorcycle endorsement applicants to be at least 18 years old and be a licensed driver in DC. They must pass the DC motorcycle knowledge test and the DC DMV motorcycle demonstration skills test. Riders who take a motorcycle demonstration course are exempted from the skills test.