Virginia requires a Real ID-compliant document, proof of residency, and a Social Security number to get a driver's license

Virginia's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID-compliant license. The Real ID license meets federal standards for air travel and entry to federal buildings, while a standard license does not. Both require the same core documents at the time you explore in person at a DMV office.

You will need to bring an identity document, proof where you live, your Social Security number, and proof of that number. The specific documents that work depend on whether you were born in the United States, whether you are a U.S. citizen, and your current immigration status. Virginia DMV's website lists all acceptable documents in each category, and you can also call your local DMV office to confirm what you have will work before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with original documents — you cannot complete a driver's license process online or by mail.
  • A Real ID-compliant license requires the same documents as a standard license and costs the same, but it is the only type accepted for domestic air travel starting May 2025.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your name and Virginia address.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a standard (non-Real ID) driver's license by bringing an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.
  • Renewal by mail is available if your license is not expired and you have not had a name change, but a new license always requires an in-person visit.

Identity documents Virginia DMV will accept

Virginia accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, or passport book as proof of identity. If you do not have a passport, you can bring a certified birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Non-U.S. citizens can bring a valid foreign passport paired with an I-94 arrival/departure record or an I-20 or DS-2019 student visa document.

If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card (Permanent Resident Card) along with a state ID, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID. If you have a work visa, bring your passport and your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The document must be original — photocopies do not work — and it must not be expired.

Proof of residency and what counts

Virginia DMV accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank or credit union statement as proof you live in Virginia. The document must show your name and a Virginia street address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. A P.O. box address does not count as residency proof.

If you recently moved and do not yet have a document in your name at your new address, you can bring a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, along with a copy of your lease. Some DMV offices also accept an affidavit of residency, which is a sworn statement you sign in front of a notary. Call your local DMV office to ask whether they will accept an affidavit before you prepare one.

Proof of your Social Security number

Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a benefit statement from Social Security. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a document from your employer or bank that shows your Social Security number. The document must be original or certified — a photocopy will not work.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a standard Virginia driver's license by bringing an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will need an IRS letter or tax return showing your ITIN. A Real ID-compliant license requires a Social Security number, so you cannot get that version without one.

Real ID versus standard license: which one to get

A Real ID-compliant license is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings starting May 7, 2025. If you fly within the United States or visit a federal courthouse, military base, or federal office building, you will need either a Real ID license, a passport, a military ID, or a passport card. A standard Virginia driver's license will no longer work for these purposes after that date.

Both licenses cost the same and require the same documents. The only difference is that a Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. If you are unsure whether you will need it, getting a Real ID license now means you will not have to return to the DMV later. If you only drive within Virginia and do not travel by air or visit federal buildings, a standard license is sufficient.

The in-person visit: what to expect

You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person to get a new driver's license. Bring all your documents in original form — photocopies are not accepted. You will take a vision test, answer questions about your health and driving history, and have your photograph taken. The DMV will also run a background check and verify your documents.

Processing time varies by office and how busy they are. Some offices issue your license the same day; others mail it to you within one to two weeks. You can check wait times at your local DMV office on the Virginia DMV website before you go. If you need your license urgently, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee.

Renewing or replacing an existing license

If your Virginia driver's license is not expired and you have not changed your name, you can renew by mail or online without visiting a DMV office. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires. If you lost your license or it was stolen, you must visit a DMV office in person to get a replacement.

A renewal by mail costs less than a new license and takes about two weeks. An online renewal is faster but is only available if you meet certain conditions — your license must not be expired, suspended, or revoked, and you must not have had a name change. Check the Virginia DMV website to see whether you are may be able to access for online renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Virginia driver's license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. Non-citizens with valid immigration status can get a standard Virginia driver's license. You will need a valid foreign passport, an I-94 arrival/departure record or student visa document, and the same proof of residency and Social Security number (or ITIN) as a U.S. citizen. Permanent residents can bring a green card instead of a passport.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can get a standard driver's license using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring an IRS letter or tax return showing your ITIN. You cannot get a Real ID-compliant license without a Social Security number.

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

Some DMV offices issue your license the same day you explore. Others mail it within one to two weeks. Check your local office's wait times on the Virginia DMV website. If you need it faster, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee.

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. Online renewal is available if your license is not expired, suspended, or revoked, and you have not had a name change. If either of these applies to you, you must visit a DMV office in person.

What happens if I move to Virginia from another state?

You must get a Virginia driver's license within 60 days of moving. Bring your out-of-state license along with proof of residency in Virginia. You do not need your original birth certificate or Social Security card again if your out-of-state license is still valid — your previous identity verification counts.