In order to obtain the noise characteristics of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) of a metro vehicle, the electromagnetic force wave theory analysis and vibration noise test of PMSM are carried out. The noise characteristics under different test conditions and speeds are analyzed from A-weighted sound pressure level, 1/3 octave and chromatogram. The results show that the noise of PMSM is mainly caused by electromagnetic vibration, the main frequency components of acceleration process are 48th, 56th and 104th order components, and the modulation components centered at the switching frequency and its harmonics. In the deceleration process, there is no switching frequency effect, while the other components are the same as those in the acceleration process. There are local modes at 316 Hz, 440 Hz and 910 Hz, which are easy to cause resonance. Vibration and noise test and characteristic analysis can provide guidance for the application of PMSM.