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 submit your documents to the time you receive your card in the mail, though you will receive a temporary paper license to drive when ready after passing your road test.

The state requires you to hold a learner's permit for a minimum period before you can take the road test, unless you already hold a valid license from another state. This waiting period exists regardless of your age or driving experience.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and current address.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written test, then hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days before taking the road test.
  • You will receive a temporary paper license when ready after passing your road test, and your plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
  • The total cost is $39 for a five-year license or $74 for an eight-year license, paid at the DMV office when you submit your documents.

Documents you must bring to the DMV

Virginia requires one document from each of three categories: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address. Your documents must be originals — photocopies are not accepted.

For proof of identity, the DMV accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID from another state. If you are under 18, a school ID paired with a report card or school transcript also works. If you do not have any of these, you can use a birth certificate plus one additional document from the identity list.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. A birth certificate does not count as proof of your Social Security number.

For proof of current address, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days of your DMV visit. A government check or tax return also works. Your name must appear on the document.

The learner's permit requirement and waiting period

If you have never held a driver's license in any state, you must first obtain a Virginia learner's permit. You cannot skip this step. To get the permit, you visit the DMV, pass a written knowledge test covering Virginia traffic laws and road signs, and pay a $10 fee. You receive your permit card when ready.

After you receive your learner's permit, you must wait at least 30 days before you can schedule a road test. This waiting period is mandatory and cannot be waived. During this time, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and seated next to you.

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state, you can skip the learner's permit and go directly to the road test. Bring your out-of-state license to the DMV along with your other documents.

Taking the written knowledge test

The written test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. The test has 35 questions, and you must answer at least 28 correctly to pass. You have 30 minutes to complete it.

The DMV provides a free study guide called the Virginia Driver's Manual, available on the DMV website and in print at any DMV office. Many people study this manual for one to two weeks before taking the test. The test is offered in English and Spanish.

If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or return another day. There is no additional fee for retakes. Most people pass on their first or second attempt.

Scheduling and taking your road test

After your 30-day waiting period ends, you can schedule a road test through the Virginia DMV website or by calling your local DMV office. Road test appointments fill up quickly, especially in urban areas, so schedule as soon as you are may be able to access. Wait times for appointments vary by location but can range from two weeks to two months depending on the season and your area.

For your road test, you must bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that is registered and inspected in Virginia. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. You will drive for approximately 15 to 20 minutes on local roads while an examiner observes and scores your performance. The examiner tests your ability to start the vehicle, control speed, turn, park, and respond to traffic signals and other drivers.

If you pass, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. Your permanent plastic license card arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If you fail, you can retake the test, though you must wait at least one day before scheduling another attempt.

Cost and payment

A five-year Virginia driver's license costs $39. An eight-year license costs $74. You pay this fee at the DMV office when you submit your documents for your first license. The learner's permit costs $10, paid separately when you take the written test.

The DMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you are paying by check, make it payable to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

What happens after you pass your road test

when ready after passing your road test, you receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive legally while you wait for your permanent card. You do not need to do anything else — the DMV mails your plastic license automatically.

Your permanent license arrives at the address you provided at the DMV office. If you move before it arrives, you can update your address on the DMV website or at a DMV office. If your card does not arrive within three weeks, contact your local DMV office to check the status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Virginia license if I have an out-of-state license that is not expired?

Yes. Bring your current out-of-state license to the DMV along with proof of Virginia residency and your other required documents. You can skip the learner's permit and written test and go directly to the road test. You must still pass the road test to receive a Virginia license.

What if I fail my road test?

You can retake the road test, but you must wait at least one day before scheduling another attempt. There is no additional fee. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. You keep your learner's permit and can continue practicing between attempts.

Do I need to take a vision test?

Yes. The DMV tests your vision as part of the road test appointment. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, the DMV will not issue you a license until you provide a vision correction certificate from an eye doctor.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your Virginia license up to one year before it expires. Renewal by mail or online is available if your license is not suspended and you have no medical restrictions. If you must renew in person, you do not need to retake the written or road test.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you can obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS. Bring your ITIN documentation to the DMV instead of a Social Security card. Contact your local DMV office for details on which ITIN documents are accepted.