Get a Virginia Driver's License When You Move to the State
When you move to Virginia, you must get a Virginia driver's license within a set timeframe. Virginia law requires you to obtain a Virginia license within 60 days of establishing residency in the state. You cannot legally drive on an out-of-state license once that period ends, even if your current license is still valid.
The process involves visiting a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) location in person, bringing specific documents, passing a vision test, and paying a fee. You do not need to retake the written driving test or road test if your out-of-state license is valid, though Virginia may require these if your license is suspended or expired.
Key Takeaways
- You have 60 days from the date you establish Virginia residency to obtain a Virginia driver's license.
- You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with proof of identity, proof of Virginia residency, and your current out-of-state license.
- Virginia does not require you to retake the written or road test if you hold a valid license from another state.
- The fee for a standard Virginia driver's license is $24 for an eight-year license, though costs vary based on license type and validity period.
- Your new Virginia license typically arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your visit.
Gather Your Required Documents Before You Visit
The Virginia DMV requires specific documents to process your license change. Bring your current out-of-state driver's license, which serves as your primary form of identification. You will also need a second form of identification such as a passport, military ID, or state ID card.
Proof of Virginia residency is mandatory. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your Virginia address. A rental agreement or property tax bill also works. The document must show your full name and current Virginia address.
Bring your Social Security number or Social Security card. If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Find a Virginia DMV Office and Schedule Your Visit
Virginia DMV offices are located throughout the state. You can find the office nearest to you by visiting the Virginia DMV website and using their office locator tool. Enter your city or zip code to see hours, services offered, and whether the location handles license transfers.
Many Virginia DMV offices now operate on an appointment system. You can schedule an appointment online through the Virginia DMV website, which often reduces your wait time significantly. Walk-ins are accepted at most locations, but appointment holders are typically served first. If you choose to walk in, arrive early in the day, as offices often reach capacity by mid-afternoon.
Some DMV offices are busier than others. If you live near multiple locations, calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you choose the fastest option. Rural and suburban offices typically have shorter waits than urban centers.
Complete Your Vision Test and Pay the Fee
When you arrive at the DMV, staff will verify your documents and take a new photograph for your Virginia license. You will then take a vision test, which checks your ability to read letters and numbers at a standard distance. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to obtain a vision correction from an eye care professional before your license is issued.
The fee for a standard Virginia driver's license is $24 for an eight-year license. If you are under 21, the fee is $24 for a five-year license. Commercial driver's licenses and other specialty licenses cost more. The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most locations, though some offices may have payment restrictions—call ahead if you want to confirm.
You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed. This temporary license allows you to drive legally during the waiting period. Keep it with you while driving.
Understand What Happens to Your Out-of-State License
When you receive your Virginia license, your out-of-state license becomes invalid for driving purposes in Virginia. The DMV will not physically take your old license, so you can keep it as identification for non-driving purposes if you wish. However, you should not carry it as your driving license or present it to law enforcement as proof of a valid license.
If you move back to your original state later, you will need to follow that state's procedures to reinstate or renew your license there. Your Virginia license does not transfer back; you must start fresh with your home state's DMV.
Track Your New License and Handle Delays
Your permanent Virginia driver's license is mailed to the address you provided at the DMV office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the Virginia DMV to report the delay. Have your temporary paper license and the date of your visit ready when you call.
If your license is lost or damaged in the mail, the DMV can issue a replacement. You will need to pay a replacement fee, which is typically $10 to $15. Visit a DMV office in person or call the DMV to report the issue and request a replacement.
If you move to a different Virginia address before your license arrives, contact the DMV when ready with your new address. They can redirect your license or reissue it to your new location. Updating your address prevents your license from being sent to an old address where you no longer live.
Handle Special Situations and Restrictions
If your out-of-state license is expired, you can still transfer to a Virginia license without retaking the written or road test, provided the license expired within the last year. If it expired more than a year ago, Virginia may require you to pass the written test. Bring documentation of when you moved to Virginia to explain the gap.
If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, Virginia will not issue you a new license until the suspension or revocation is resolved. Contact the DMV in your previous state to understand the status and what steps are needed to clear it. Once cleared, you can then transfer to Virginia.
If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) from another state, the transfer process is different and more involved. You will need to pass Virginia's CDL written test and may need to pass a road test. Contact a Virginia DMV office that handles commercial licenses for specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take the written driving test to get a Virginia license?
No, if your out-of-state license is valid and not suspended or revoked, Virginia waives the written test. You only need to pass the vision test. If your license is expired by more than one year, Virginia may require the written test.
What if I do not have proof of Virginia residency yet?
You need a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and Virginia address. If you just moved and have not received a utility bill or lease yet, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your residency and move-in date. Some DMV offices accept this as temporary proof.
Can I renew my out-of-state license instead of switching to Virginia?
No. Virginia law requires you to obtain a Virginia license within 60 days of establishing residency. Driving on an out-of-state license after that period is illegal, even if the license itself is still valid. You must switch to Virginia.
How long is a Virginia driver's license valid?
A standard Virginia driver's license is valid for eight years if you are 21 or older. If you are under 21, it is valid for five years. You can renew your license before it expires by visiting a DMV office or, in some cases, renewing online through the Virginia DMV website.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
Bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. The DMV will update your name on your new Virginia license. You may also need to update your name with Social Security and other agencies, but the DMV can process the license change with the documentation.