How to Get Your First Virginia Driver License

What you need to do to get a Virginia driver license for the first time

To get your first Virginia driver license, you will visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) location in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving test, and provide documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. Virginia issues a standard driver license valid for eight years, or you can request a REAL ID-compliant license (valid for ten years) if you also bring a document proving citizenship. The entire process takes multiple visits — you cannot take both tests on the same day.

Most people start by getting a learner's permit, which lets you practice driving with a licensed adult before you test. You can skip the permit and go straight to the full license test if you are 18 or older, but you still need to pass both the written and driving portions.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DMV office in person with original documents proving your identity, Virginia residency, and Social Security number before you can take any test.
The written knowledge test and the driving test must happen on separate visits, so plan for at least two trips to the DMV.
If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least nine months and 15 days before you can take the driving test.
A standard Virginia driver license costs $36 and lasts eight years; a REAL ID license costs $36 and lasts ten years but requires proof of citizenship.
You can schedule your driving test appointment online through the Virginia DMV website, which often has shorter wait times than walk-ins.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in Virginia. A valid passport works for identity. A birth certificate, naturalization papers, or visa also work. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and Virginia address on it — it must be dated within the last 60 days.

You also need to prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.

If you want a REAL ID license instead of a standard one, add one document proving U.S. citizenship: a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth abroad. REAL ID licenses are required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings starting in 2025, though Virginia still accepts standard licenses for state purposes.

Getting your learner's permit if you are under 18

If you are under 18, Virginia law requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least nine months and 15 days before you can take the driving test. You get the permit by passing the written knowledge test at a DMV office. Bring your documents (identity, residency, and Social Security proof), pay the $10 fee, and take the 35-question multiple-choice test on a computer. You need a score of 29 or higher to pass.

The test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Virginia DMV's free online manual or take a practice test on their website. Many people take the test multiple times if they do not pass the first time — there is no limit on attempts, though you pay the $10 fee each time.

Once you have your permit, you can drive only with a licensed adult (21 or older) in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. until you have held the permit for six months. After nine months and 15 days, you can schedule your driving test.

Taking the written knowledge test if you are 18 or older

If you are 18 or older, you do not need a learner's permit — you can take the written test and the driving test as a full-license candidate. The written test is the same 35-question exam that younger drivers take for their permit. You need a score of 29 or higher to pass.

Schedule your written test appointment online through the Virginia DMV website or call 1-866-368-5463. Walk-ins are accepted but often have long waits. Bring your documents, pay the $10 fee, and take the test on a computer at the DMV office. You will receive your score when ready. If you pass, you can schedule your driving test for a later date.

Scheduling and taking your driving test

The driving test is a 20-minute evaluation where a DMV examiner sits in your vehicle while you drive on public roads. You must demonstrate that you can start the car, control steering and braking, obey traffic signs, turn safely, and park. The examiner will also check that your vehicle is safe — it must have working brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and seat belts.

You can schedule your driving test online through the Virginia DMV website or by phone at 1-866-368-5463. Appointments fill up quickly, especially in urban areas, so book as soon as you are ready. You must bring your learner's permit (if you are under 18) or your written test passing certificate (if you are 18 or older), your documents, and proof that your vehicle is insured.

Bring someone with a valid driver license to the test location — you cannot drive to the test alone. The examiner will meet you in the parking lot, inspect your vehicle, and then drive with you. If you pass, you will receive a temporary license on the spot and your permanent card will arrive by mail within two weeks. If you do not pass, you can schedule another test, though there is usually a waiting period of a few days.

Costs and how long everything takes

The written test costs $10. The driving test costs $26. Your driver license itself costs $36 for a standard eight-year license or $36 for a REAL ID ten-year license. If you are under 18, you also pay $10 for your learner's permit. Total cost for a first license is usually $72 to $82 depending on which type you choose.

Timing depends on how quickly you schedule appointments and how long you hold your permit. If you are under 18, the minimum time from learner's permit to full license is nine months and 15 days. If you are 18 or older, you can take both tests within a few weeks if appointments are available. After you pass your driving test, your permanent license arrives by mail in 10 to 14 business days. You can drive with your temporary license in the meantime.

What to do if you fail the driving test

If you do not pass the driving test, you will receive a score sheet showing which maneuvers or behaviors caused you to fail — for example, failing to signal, hitting a curb during parking, or running a stop sign. You can take the test again, but Virginia usually requires you to wait at least one business day before scheduling another attempt. There is no limit on how many times you can retake the test, and you pay the $26 fee each time.

Many people find it helpful to practice the specific skills that caused them to fail, or to take a professional driving lesson before their next attempt. Some DMV offices offer practice driving routes on their website so you can see the kinds of roads and intersections the examiner might use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my driving test in a vehicle that is not registered to me?

Yes. The vehicle must be insured and have working safety equipment, but it does not have to be registered in your name. Many people borrow a parent's or friend's car for the test. Make sure the owner gives you permission and that you have proof of insurance to show the examiner.

What happens if I move to Virginia from another state?

If you already have a valid driver license from another state, you can exchange it for a Virginia license without taking the written or driving tests. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security proof to any DMV office. You will pay the $36 license fee and receive your Virginia license. If your out-of-state license is expired, you will need to take both tests.

Do I need to pass a vision test?

Yes. The DMV will check your vision at the office before you take the written test. You must be able to read the eye chart at a certain distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you may be required to get a vision exam from an eye doctor before you can proceed.

Can I get a Virginia license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Virginia requires proof of a Social Security number to issue a driver license. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to get an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from the IRS, though this is a separate process. Contact your local DMV office to discuss your specific situation.

What is the difference between a standard license and a REAL ID license?

A standard Virginia driver license is valid for eight years and costs $36. A REAL ID license is valid for ten years, also costs $36, and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. The only difference is that REAL ID requires you to bring proof of U.S. citizenship. Both are valid for driving in Virginia.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.