What you need to bring to the DMV

Virginia requires you to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The exact documents depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or moving to Virginia from another state.

For proof of identity, bring a valid passport, military ID, or birth certificate. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your name and Virginia address on it. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but you will need to bring additional documents — ask the DMV office when you call ahead.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the DMV office.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring documents proving your identity (passport, military ID, or birth certificate), Virginia residency (utility bill or lease from the last 60 days), and Social Security number (card, W-2, or tax return).
  • You must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test covering Virginia traffic laws; the DMV provides study materials online at dmvnow.com.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present to sign your process at the DMV office.
  • You can schedule an appointment online at dmvnow.com or call your local DMV office to reduce wait times.
  • The fee varies by license type and age; a standard five-year license costs less than a ten-year license, and drivers under 21 pay a different rate.

The written test and vision screening

Before you receive your license, you must pass a written knowledge test on Virginia traffic laws and road signs. The test has 35 questions, and you need to answer at least 28 correctly to pass. The DMV provides a free study guide on its website at dmvnow.com under "Knowledge Test Study Materials," and you can also take practice tests online.

You will also take a vision test at the DMV office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a vision report before you can get your license.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no extra fee to retake the test.

Where to go and how to schedule

Virginia has DMV offices in every county and city. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on dmvnow.com. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead or scheduling an appointment online will save you time.

To schedule an appointment, go to dmvnow.com and select "Schedule an Appointment." You will choose your local office, the type of transaction (new license, renewal, or transfer from another state), and your preferred date and time. Appointments are usually available within one to two weeks.

If you prefer to walk in without an appointment, arrive early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon, as Saturdays and lunch hours tend to be crowded. Some offices have a wait-time tracker on dmvnow.com so you can check before you go.

Fees and how long it takes

The cost of a Virginia driver's license depends on your age and how long you want the license to be valid. A standard five-year license costs less than a ten-year license. Drivers under 21 pay a different rate than drivers 21 and older. The DMV website lists the exact fees for each type.

After you pass the test and pay the fee, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days while your permanent card is being printed. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. If you need your license sooner, some DMV offices can issue a temporary plastic license on the spot for an additional fee.

If you are moving to Virginia from another state

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to take the written test again. You will still need to pass the vision test and bring proof of your identity, Virginia residency, and Social Security number. You will also need to bring your current out-of-state license.

Virginia will keep your out-of-state license and issue you a Virginia license. Your new license will have the same expiration date as your old one, unless your old license expires within the next 60 days — in that case, Virginia will issue you a new five-year or ten-year license.

Getting a Real ID-compliant license

A Real ID is a federal standard that makes your driver's license acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Virginia offers Real ID licenses at no extra cost. To get one, you bring the same documents as you would for a regular license, plus one additional document proving your Social Security number (your Social Security card itself, not just a W-2 or tax return).

Real ID licenses have a small star in the top right corner. If you do not want a Real ID license, you can request a standard license instead, but you will need a passport or other federal ID to fly domestically after May 2025.

What to do if you lose your license or it is damaged

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at any DMV office or online at dmvnow.com. You will need to bring proof of identity and Virginia residency, and you will pay a replacement fee (less than the cost of a new license). You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent replacement card by mail within one to two weeks.

If your license was stolen, you may also want to report it to the police and monitor your credit report for fraud, since a driver's license is a common form of ID theft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

No. You must take the written test in person at a DMV office. However, you can study for it online using the free study guide and practice tests on dmvnow.com before you go.

What if I fail the vision test?

You will need to see an eye doctor and bring a vision report to the DMV showing that your vision meets Virginia's standards. Once you have the report, you can schedule another appointment to retake the vision test and complete your license process.

Do I need to take a driving test to get my license?

No. Virginia does not require a behind-the-wheel driving test for a standard driver's license. You only need to pass the written test and vision screening. However, if you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course before you can get your license.

How long is a Virginia driver's license valid?

You can choose a five-year or ten-year license when you explore. A ten-year license costs more but lasts longer. Licenses for drivers under 21 expire on their 21st birthday, regardless of which option you choose.

Can I renew my license online?

You can renew online if your license is not expired and you have not had any changes to your name, address, or vision status. Go to dmvnow.com and select "Renew Your License." If you need to make changes or your license is expired, you will need to visit a DMV office in person.