What You Need to Bring to the DMV

Virginia requires you to show proof of identity, Social Security number, and Virginia residency before the DMV will issue a driver's license. The specific 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 certified birth certificate. If you use a birth certificate, you also need a second form of ID — a Social Security card, W-2, or bank statement with your name on it. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your Virginia address.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not have one, you can still get a license, but you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number, or documentation showing you have applied for one.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate as proof of identity, plus a second ID if you use a birth certificate.
  • Proof of Virginia residency requires a document dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • You must provide your Social Security number or bring documentation from the Social Security Administration if you do not have one.
  • First-time drivers must pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test; renewals and transfers do not require retesting.
  • The DMV charges different fees for first licenses, renewals, and transfers, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at most locations.

Written Test and Driving Test Requirements

If you are getting your first Virginia license, you must pass a written knowledge test covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 35 questions, and you need to answer at least 28 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish, and the DMV provides study materials online and at every office.

After passing the written test, you must schedule a driving skills test with a DMV examiner. During this test, you will drive a vehicle (usually your own) while an examiner watches and scores your ability to handle basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping. You cannot use a commercial driving school vehicle for the test unless you hold a commercial driver's license permit.

If you are renewing an expired license or transferring a license from another state, you do not need to retake either test unless the DMV has reason to believe you are unsafe to drive — for example, if your license was suspended or revoked.

Fees and Payment Methods

Virginia charges different fees depending on the type of license you are getting. A five-year driver's license costs $65, and an eight-year license costs $88. If you are under 21, your license costs $40 for five years or $56 for eight years. Replacement licenses for lost or damaged cards cost $15.

The DMV accepts cash, checks, and debit or credit cards at most locations. Some offices may have different payment options, so check the DMV website for your local office before you go. If you pay by check, make it out to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

Where to Go and How to Schedule

Virginia has DMV offices in every county and independent city. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Virginia DMV website. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many require you to schedule an appointment in advance, especially for driving tests.

To schedule an appointment, visit the Virginia DMV website or call the main DMV customer service line. If you are taking a driving test, you will need to schedule that separately from your written test appointment. The DMV typically schedules driving tests several weeks in advance, so plan ahead if you have a important date.

If you are a first-time driver under 18, you must also complete a driver education course before you can take the written test. Virginia recognizes both classroom and online courses, and the DMV website lists approved providers in your area.

Special Rules for Minors and Learner's Permits

If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit before you can take the driving test for a full license. To get a learner's permit, you need the same documents as for a full license, plus proof that you have completed a driver education course. The permit costs $10 and is valid for one year.

With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even for hands-free calls. These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18 or pass your driving test and receive your full license.

Once you have held your learner's permit for at least 30 days and completed the required practice hours (which vary by age), you can schedule your driving test. After you pass, you will receive a provisional license valid until you turn 18, with the same restrictions as the learner's permit.

Transferring a License from Another State

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state and you move to Virginia, you can transfer it without retaking the written or driving test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Virginia residency to any DMV office.

The fee for a transfer is the same as for a renewal in Virginia. Your new Virginia license will have an expiration date based on your age and the license type you choose (five or eight years). If your out-of-state license is expired, you may still transfer it, but the DMV will treat it as a new license rather than a transfer, and you will need to pass the written and driving tests.

What Happens After You Pass

Once you pass your driving test, the DMV will issue your license on the spot at most locations. Your temporary paper license is valid when ready, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within that time, contact the DMV to check the status.

Your Virginia driver's license is valid for the number of years you chose (five or eight) from the date it is issued. You can renew it online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office up to one year before it expires. If your license expires, you can still drive legally for 30 days after the expiration date, but you should renew it as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The Virginia DMV offers the written test in Spanish and several other languages. When you schedule your appointment or arrive at the office, tell the staff which language you need. You may also bring an interpreter, but the interpreter cannot help you answer the questions.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. Most people can schedule another test within a few weeks. Each retake costs the same as the original test, and you do not need to retake the written test unless your knowledge test result has expired (usually after one year).

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or just know my number?

You do not need to bring your Social Security card. You can provide your number verbally or in writing. However, if you do not have a number and cannot provide documentation from the Social Security Administration, the DMV will not issue your license until you do.

Can I get a REAL ID-compliant license in Virginia?

Yes. Virginia issues REAL ID-compliant licenses that meet federal standards for air travel and federal building access. You get a REAL ID license automatically when you renew or transfer your license if you bring the required documents. There is no extra fee for REAL ID compliance.

What if I move to a different Virginia address after I get my license?

You do not need to update your address on your license unless you want to. However, if you are stopped by police or involved in an accident, having your current address on file can help. You can update your address online through the Virginia DMV website, by mail, or in person at any DMV office for a small fee.