What Virginia Requires Before You Can Get a Driver's License

Virginia requires you to prove your identity, Virginia residency, and Social Security number before the Department of Motor Vehicles will issue a driver's license. You must also pass a vision test and a written knowledge test about traffic laws. If you are under 18, you have additional requirements: you need a parent or guardian's permission, proof of completion of a driver's education course, and a supervised driving period before you can take the road test.

The process differs slightly depending on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or transferring a license from another state. This guide covers what you need to bring, what tests you will take, and what happens at each step.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of Virginia residency (like a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security card or a document showing your number.
  • All applicants must pass a vision screening and a written test on Virginia traffic laws; the written test has 35 questions and you must answer at least 28 correctly.
  • If you are under 18, you need a signed parent or guardian consent form, proof of driver's education completion, and a learner's permit before you can take the road test.
  • Virginia charges a fee for a driver's license; the amount depends on how long the license is valid (typically five or eight years).
  • You can take the written test at any DMV office, but road tests must be scheduled in advance and wait times vary by location.

Documents You Must Bring to the DMV

Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity and shows your name and date of birth. A U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID from another state all work. A driver's license from another state counts as proof of identity but not proof of Virginia residency, so you will still need a second document.

Bring proof that you live in Virginia. The DMV accepts a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and Virginia address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency (like a tax notice or voter registration card) also works if it shows your current address.

Bring your Social Security card or a document that displays your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you do not have your card and cannot produce another document with your number, you can sign an affidavit at the DMV stating you do not have a Social Security number, though this is uncommon.

If you are explore for a Real ID-compliant license (which you will need to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 2025), bring an original or certified birth certificate or passport in addition to the documents above.

The Vision Test and Written Knowledge Test

The vision test happens first. You will read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you cannot proceed that day; you will need to see an eye care professional and return with documentation that your vision meets Virginia's standard (20/40 or better in each eye, or 20/70 in one eye and 20/40 in the other with both eyes open).

The written test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 35 questions, all multiple choice. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass. You can take the test on a computer at the DMV office. The test is offered in English and several other languages. You are allowed to take the test twice in one day if you fail the first time, but if you fail twice, you must wait one week before trying again.

Study materials are free. The Virginia DMV publishes a driver's manual online and in print at any DMV office. Many people also use practice tests available on the DMV website to prepare.

Age-Specific Requirements for Drivers Under 18

If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit before you can take the road test. To get a learner's permit, bring your parent or guardian with you to the DMV along with all the documents listed above. Your parent or guardian must sign a consent form in front of the DMV staff. You will then take the vision and written tests as described above.

After you receive your learner's permit, Virginia law requires you to hold it for at least 60 days and practice driving under supervision. During this time, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and sitting in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. while on a learner's permit.

You must also complete a driver's education course approved by the Virginia Department of Education. This course can be taken at your high school, through a private driving school, or online (though the behind-the-wheel portion must be in person). Bring proof of completion to the DMV when you are ready to schedule your road test.

The road test itself lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle operation, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must pass the road test to receive your license. If you fail, you can schedule another test, though wait times vary by location.

Transferring a License from Another State

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to take the written test or road test in Virginia. Bring your out-of-state license along with proof of Virginia residency and your Social Security card or number. You will still take the vision test. Virginia will issue you a Virginia license valid for the same remaining period as your old license, up to a maximum of eight years.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to take both the written test and the road test as if you were a new driver. Bring all the documents listed in the "Documents You Must Bring to the DMV" section above.

Fees and License Validity Periods

Virginia charges different fees depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard driver's license is valid for five or eight years; the fee varies based on which term you choose. A Real ID-compliant license costs more than a standard license. Fees also differ for drivers under 21 versus drivers 21 and older.

The DMV website lists current fees, as they are updated periodically. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at any DMV office. Some offices also accept payment online if you renew by mail.

Your license will show an expiration date. You can renew it up to one year before it expires. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you will need to reapply as a new driver and take the written test and road test again.

What Happens at Your DMV Appointment

Schedule an appointment online through the Virginia DMV website or by calling the DMV customer service line. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but appointment holders are seen first and wait times are shorter. Bring all required documents and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.

A DMV staff member will review your documents, verify your information, and take a photo for your license. You will then take the vision test. If you pass, you will take the written test on a computer. If you pass the written test, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you.

If you are taking the road test on the same day, you will be directed to the testing area. A DMV examiner will inspect your vehicle to make sure it is safe, then conduct the test. You will receive your results the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online from home?

No. You must take the written test in person at a DMV office. However, you can study using practice tests on the Virginia DMV website from home before your appointment.

What if I fail the road test?

You can schedule another road test. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will need to pay the road test fee again. Many people find it helpful to practice more with a licensed driver or take additional lessons before retesting.

Do I need to bring my vehicle to the DMV for the written test?

No. You only need to bring your vehicle if you are taking the road test on the same day. For the written test and vision test, you do not need a vehicle present.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

Bring another document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2, tax return, or bank statement. If you have none of these, you can sign an affidavit at the DMV, though you may be asked to obtain your number from the Social Security Administration before your license is issued.

How long does it take to get my plastic license card in the mail?

Virginia typically mails your card within 7 to 10 business days of your appointment. Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days, which gives you time to receive your card. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the DMV to check the status.