What You Need to Do to Get a Virginia Driver's License

To get a Virginia driver's license, you must visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) location in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. Virginia does not issue licenses by mail or online. The entire process typically takes several weeks from the time you schedule your appointment to the time you receive your card in the mail.

You can schedule your appointment through the Virginia DMV website or by calling 1-866-368-5463. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but wait times are often longer. First-time applicants should plan for at least two visits: one for the written test and one for the driving test, which are scheduled separately.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with specific documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number before you can take either test.
  • The written knowledge test covers Virginia traffic laws and safe driving practices; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • The driving skills test is scheduled after you pass the written test and requires you to bring a vehicle registered in Virginia and proof of insurance.
  • Virginia charges a $40 fee for a five-year license or $60 for an eight-year license; additional fees explore if you need replacement documents.
  • Your temporary license is valid for 45 days while you wait for your permanent card to arrive by mail.

Documents You Must Bring to the DMV

Virginia requires you to bring original or certified documents—photocopies are not accepted. You need one document proving your identity (such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), one document proving your current Virginia address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.

If you were born outside the United States, you must bring your passport or travel document. If you have changed your name through marriage or court order, bring the original or certified copy of the document showing that change. Bring all documents in their original form; the DMV will not accept notarized copies of most documents.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. Bring your completed process for a Driver's License or Permit (Form DL-43), which you can read from the Virginia DMV website or fill out at the office.

The Written Knowledge Test

The Virginia written test has 35 questions covering traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and parking rules. You must answer at least 25 questions correctly (70 percent) to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, and Korean; request your language when you schedule your appointment.

You can study using the Virginia Driver's Manual, available free on the DMV website in English and several other languages. Many people study the manual for one to two weeks before taking the test. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most locations, though you may have to wait and pay the test fee again.

The test is administered on a computer at the DMV office. You will have time to review your answers before submitting. Once you pass, the DMV will schedule your driving test appointment, which is typically two to four weeks later depending on how busy your local office is.

The Driving Skills Test and What Happens After

The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and includes basic vehicle control, turning, stopping, and parking. You must bring a vehicle that is registered in Virginia, has valid insurance, and passes a safety inspection (working lights, wipers, brakes, and horn). The vehicle must have a valid inspection sticker on the windshield. You must also bring proof of insurance—your insurance card or a printed declaration page from your insurance company.

A DMV examiner will sit in the passenger seat and direct you through the test route. You will be evaluated on your ability to follow traffic laws, control the vehicle, and respond to road conditions. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least two business days and pay the test fee again.

Once you pass the driving test, the DMV will issue you a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. Your permanent plastic license card will be mailed to your Virginia address within two to three weeks. If you do not receive it within that time, contact the DMV to request a replacement.

Fees and License Validity

A five-year Virginia driver's license costs $40. An eight-year license costs $60. The written test fee is $10, and the driving test fee is $20. If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, the replacement fee is $15 for a five-year license or $20 for an eight-year license.

Your license is valid for the number of years you choose at the time of issue. You can renew by mail or online if you have not had any violations or suspensions, though first-time renewals sometimes require an in-person visit. Check the Virginia DMV website to see whether you are may be able to access to renew by mail or online.

Special Situations: Minors, Permits, and Restrictions

If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit, which allows you to drive with a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front seat. The permit process is similar to the license process but does not include a driving test. You must hold the permit for at least 90 days and be at least 16 years and 3 months old before you can take the driving test for a full license.

Minors' licenses have restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after you have held your license for 12 months, whichever comes first.

If you are moving to Virginia from another state, you can transfer your out-of-state license without retaking the written and driving tests if your license is still valid. You will need to bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security card. The transfer fee is the same as a new license.

What to Do If You Lose Your License or Need a Replacement

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement in person at any DMV office or online through the Virginia DMV website. The replacement fee is $15 for a five-year license or $20 for an eight-year license. You do not need to retake the written or driving test.

If you request a replacement online, you will receive a temporary paper license when ready, and your permanent card will be mailed within two to three weeks. If you request it in person, you will receive the temporary license right away. Bring your Social Security card and proof of Virginia residency if you are replacing a license in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test without scheduling an appointment?

Walk-ins are accepted at most Virginia DMV offices, but you may wait several hours. Scheduling an appointment online or by phone is faster and guarantees a specific time slot. Check the Virginia DMV website to see which offices accept walk-ins and their current wait times.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after waiting at least two business days. You must pay the test fee again ($20). There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you must continue to hold a valid learner's permit or temporary license between attempts.

How long does it take to receive my permanent license card in the mail?

Your permanent card is typically mailed within two to three weeks of passing the driving test. Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days, so you have time to wait. If you do not receive your card within three weeks, contact the DMV to check the status.

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

Yes. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a Social Security number, along with your other required documents. You will still need to provide proof of identity and Virginia residency.

Do I need to retake the written and driving tests if I move to Virginia from another state?

No. If your out-of-state license is still valid, you can transfer it to a Virginia license without retaking either test. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security card to any DMV office.