What you need to bring and where to go

To get a Virginia driver's license, you visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Virginia has DMV locations across the state; you can find the one nearest you and check its hours on the Virginia DMV website. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some offices now offer appointment scheduling, which can reduce your wait time.

The entire process — from walking in to leaving with your license — usually takes one to three hours, depending on how busy the office is and whether you pass the written and vision tests on your first attempt. Bring your documents in original form; photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with original documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number.
  • The written test covers Virginia traffic laws and road signs; the vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely.
  • A standard Virginia driver's license costs a one-time fee that varies depending on how long you want the license to be valid.
  • If you already have a valid out-of-state license, you may not need to take the written test again, though you will still take the vision test.

Documents that prove your identity

Virginia accepts a limited list of documents as proof of identity. A U.S. passport, passport card, or a state ID card from another state all work. If you do not have any of those, you can use a combination: a birth certificate plus a document with your name and signature, such as a Social Security card, school ID, or employee ID. A Social Security card alone is not enough.

If your name has changed since your identity document was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. The DMV staff will check that your current name matches across all your documents.

Documents that prove where you live

Proof of residency must show your current Virginia address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work. A cell phone bill, insurance bill, or property tax bill also counts. The document must have your name and your current address printed on it.

If you recently moved and do not yet have a bill in your name at your new address, you can bring a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, stating that you live there and the date you moved in. Some DMV offices also accept a notarized affidavit of residency if you cannot obtain any other document.

The written test and vision screening

The written test has 35 questions about Virginia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages; ask the DMV staff which languages are available at your location. You can study using the Virginia DMV's free online practice test or the official Virginia Driver's Manual, both available on the DMV website.

The vision screening checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive. You will read letters or numbers on a chart from a specific distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test. If you fail the vision screening, the DMV will not issue you a license until you see an eye doctor and bring back a vision certificate showing that you meet Virginia's vision standards.

If you hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state and have held it for at least one year, you may be waived from taking the written test. You will still take the vision test and pay the fee. Ask the DMV staff whether you may have access to for this waiver when you arrive.

License types and fees

Virginia offers several types of driver's licenses. A standard Class D license is for regular passenger vehicles. A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required if you drive large trucks or buses for work. A Motorcycle Endorsement allows you to operate a motorcycle and requires a separate test.

The fee for a standard Class D license depends on how long you want it to be valid. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. The DMV website lists current fees. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most locations. Some offices may have payment method restrictions, so call ahead if you want to confirm.

What happens after you pass

If you pass the written and vision tests, the DMV will take your photograph and issue your license on the spot. Your temporary paper license is valid when ready; your plastic card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. Do not drive without either the temporary paper license or your new plastic card once it arrives.

Your Virginia driver's license is valid for the number of years you purchased — either four or eight years. Before it expires, you can renew it online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The DMV will send you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires.

If you fail the test

If you do not pass the written test, you can take it again the same day or return another day. There is no waiting period between attempts at most DMV locations, though some offices may have their own policies. Each attempt costs the full license fee, so you will pay again if you retake the test.

If you fail the vision test, you cannot retake it at the DMV. You must see an eye doctor, get a vision certificate, and return to the DMV with that certificate. Once you have the certificate, you can take the written test and complete the license process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Virginia license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Proof of a Social Security number is required. You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a Virginia driver's license.

What if I lost my documents and cannot find them?

You can request replacement documents before you go to the DMV. Contact the issuing agency — for a birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the state where you were born; for a Social Security card, visit your local Social Security office. Replacement documents usually take one to two weeks to arrive.

Do I need to take the written test if I already have a license from another state?

Only if your out-of-state license has been valid for less than one year. If you have held it for at least one year, you can skip the written test. You will still take the vision test and pay the full license fee.

What if I fail the vision test — can I still drive?

No. You cannot legally drive in Virginia without a valid license. If you fail the vision test, you must see an eye doctor, get a vision certificate showing you meet Virginia's standards, and return to the DMV before you can drive.

How long does the plastic license card take to arrive?

Usually one to two weeks. Your temporary paper license is valid during this time. If your card does not arrive within three weeks, contact the Virginia DMV to report it.