What you need to get a Virginia driver's license

Virginia issues driver's licenses through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). To get your first license or renew an expired one, you'll need to visit a DMV office in person — you cannot complete this entirely by mail or online. The DMV requires proof of identity, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security number before they issue a license.

Proof of identity means a document with your name, date of birth, and photograph. A U.S. passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you don't have a photo ID, you can bring two documents from a list that includes a birth certificate, Social Security card, or bank statement with your name on it.

For residency, bring a document showing your current Virginia address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will do. If you're moving and your address hasn't updated yet, a signed lease or purchase agreement for your new Virginia home counts.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DMV office in person with proof of identity, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security number.
  • A standard Virginia driver's license costs $70 and is valid for eight years; renewal by mail is only available if your license is not expired and you meet other conditions.
  • You can schedule an appointment online at dmvnow.com to reduce wait times, though walk-ins are accepted.
  • If you're under 18, you'll start with a Graduated Driver's License (GDL) with restrictions that lift at age 18.

The cost and validity period

A standard Virginia driver's license costs $70 and remains valid for eight years from the date of issue. If you're renewing a license that has already expired, you must visit an office in person; you cannot renew by mail once it's past the expiration date. If your license is still valid, you may be able to renew by mail, though the DMV recommends checking their website or calling ahead to confirm your specific situation.

Real ID-compliant licenses, which meet federal requirements for air travel and federal building access, cost the same $70 but require additional documents. You'll need to prove citizenship — a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers — in addition to the identity and residency documents listed above.

How to schedule and complete your visit

You can schedule a DMV appointment online at dmvnow.com. Scheduling ahead typically means a shorter wait, but the DMV also accepts walk-ins during regular business hours. Office hours vary by location, so check the DMV website for the office nearest you before you go.

Bring all your documents in original form — photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency. You'll also need to pass a vision test at the office. If you're getting your first license, you'll take a written test on Virginia traffic laws and road signs, and then a driving test with a DMV examiner. If you're renewing, you typically skip the written and driving tests unless your license was suspended or revoked.

The DMV will take your photograph at the office and issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office location and current processing volume.

Graduated Driver's Licenses for drivers under 18

If you're under 18, Virginia issues a Graduated Driver's License (GDL) instead of a standard license. A GDL comes with restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you're traveling to or from work, school, or a medical appointment, and you can have no more than one passenger under 20 years old in the car unless a parent or guardian is present.

These restrictions remain in place until you turn 18, at which point you can visit the DMV to convert to a standard license at no additional cost. You'll need to bring your current GDL and proof of your current address.

Renewing your license before it expires

Virginia sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires. If your license is not yet expired and you meet the renewal conditions, you can renew by mail by returning the notice with a check or money order for $70. The DMV will mail your new license within 7 to 10 business days.

However, if you've changed your address, need a Real ID-compliant license, or want to update your photograph, you must visit an office in person. The same documents — proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number — explore to renewal as to a first license.

What to do if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged

If your license is lost or stolen, visit a DMV office to report it and request a replacement. Bring proof of identity and residency as you would for a new license. The replacement costs $70 and you'll receive it in the same timeframe as a new license.

If your license is damaged but still readable, you can also request a replacement at the same cost. Some offices allow you to mail in a damaged license with a written request and payment, but calling ahead to confirm your local office's policy will save you a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Virginia driver's license online?

No. Virginia does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you meet other conditions, but if your license has already expired, you must visit a DMV office in person.

How long does it take to get a Virginia driver's license after my visit?

The DMV issues your license on the spot or mails it within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office and current processing volume. You can ask at your visit which method applies to you.

Do I need a Real ID to drive in Virginia?

No. A standard Virginia driver's license is sufficient for driving. You only need a Real ID-compliant license if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building. Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses but require proof of citizenship.

What happens if I move to Virginia from another state?

You must obtain a Virginia driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state license as proof of identity, along with proof of your Virginia address, and visit a DMV office to explore for a new license.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. You must pick up your license in person at the DMV office where you applied, or it will be mailed to your address on file. The DMV does not release licenses to third parties.