What Virginia's driver license test includes

Virginia's driver license test has three parts: a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a behind-the-wheel driving test. You must pass all three to get your license. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices specific to Virginia. The vision screening checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. The driving test shows an examiner that you can handle a vehicle in real traffic.

You take the written test and vision screening at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. The driving test happens in a vehicle — usually your own, though some testing locations have vehicles available — with an examiner in the passenger seat. The entire process typically takes a few hours across one or more visits.

Key Takeaways

  • Virginia's written test covers 46 questions about road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving, and you need to answer at least 38 correctly to pass.
  • You must bring a valid form of identification, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security number to the DMV office before you can test.
  • The behind-the-wheel test lasts about 20 minutes and includes basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and merging on real roads.
  • You can take the written test as many times as you need, but you must wait one day between attempts if you fail.
  • Virginia allows you to schedule your driving test in advance online or by phone, which reduces wait times at the DMV office.

The written knowledge test

The written test has 46 multiple-choice questions drawn from Virginia's driver manual. Questions cover traffic signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, and what to do in emergencies. You answer the questions on a computer at the DMV office. You have 30 minutes to complete the test.

You need to answer at least 38 of the 46 questions correctly — that is about 83 percent — to pass. If you do not pass, you can retake the test the next day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you will pay the test fee each time. Most people pass on their first or second attempt if they study the Virginia driver manual beforehand.

The manual is free and available online at the Virginia DMV website, or you can pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. Many people find it helpful to take practice tests online before going to the DMV, since the real test questions are similar in style and content.

Vision screening and identification requirements

Before you take the written test, the DMV will check your vision. You read letters and numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, you wear them during the screening. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction, to pass. If you cannot meet that standard, you cannot get a license.

You must bring three things to the DMV office: a valid form of identification (a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license), proof that you live in Virginia (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current address), and your Social Security number. If you do not have these documents, you cannot take the test that day. Bring originals, not copies, for your identification and residency proof.

The behind-the-wheel driving test

The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and takes place on real roads near the DMV office where you tested. An examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches you drive. You will be asked to perform basic maneuvers: starting the car, turning left and right, changing lanes, parking (usually parallel parking), and stopping smoothly. The examiner may also ask you to drive on a highway or residential street, depending on the testing route.

You can use your own vehicle, a family member's vehicle, or a vehicle provided by the testing location — call ahead to ask if your DMV office has vehicles available. Your vehicle must be in safe working condition: brakes, lights, wipers, and steering must all work properly. The examiner will check these before you drive.

Common reasons people fail the driving test include hitting the curb while parking, failing to signal before turning, speeding, not checking mirrors before changing lanes, and stopping too hard or too soft. The examiner is looking for safe, smooth driving and awareness of other vehicles and pedestrians. You can retake the test if you do not pass, though you will need to schedule another appointment and pay the fee again.

How to schedule your test in Virginia

You can schedule your written test and driving test online through the Virginia DMV website, by phone at 1-844-DMV-VIRGINIA (1-844-368-8474), or in person at a DMV office. Online scheduling is usually the fastest option. You choose your preferred DMV location and time slot from available openings.

If you schedule online, you will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, and location. Arrive at least 15 minutes early. Bring all required documents. If you need to reschedule, you can do so online or by phone up to 24 hours before your appointment.

Wait times at DMV offices vary by location and time of day. Scheduling in advance means you will not have to wait in line on the day of your test. If you walk in without an appointment, you may wait several hours or be turned away if the office is at capacity.

What happens after you pass

Once you pass all three parts of the test, the DMV will issue you a temporary driver license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed to you. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. You can drive legally with the temporary license during this time.

Your new license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. You will need to renew it before it expires. Virginia also requires you to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times while driving.

Common reasons people fail and how to prepare

On the written test, people most often miss questions about right-of-way rules, speed limits in different zones, and what traffic signs mean. The best way to prepare is to read through the Virginia driver manual at least once and take online practice tests. Many free practice tests are available on the Virginia DMV website and other driving education sites.

On the driving test, people fail most often because they do not check their mirrors and blind spots, do not signal before turning or changing lanes, or misjudge distance while parking. Practice these specific skills before your test. If possible, drive with someone experienced in the area where you will be tested, so you get used to the roads and traffic patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. Virginia offers the written test in Spanish and several other languages. When you schedule your test, you can request your preferred language. Call the DMV or ask at the office when you arrive to find out which languages are available at your location.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it. Schedule a new appointment online, by phone, or in person. You will need to pay the test fee again. There is no waiting period between attempts, so you can schedule another test as soon as the next available opening. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after practicing the skills the examiner noted.

Do I need to take a driver education course before the test?

No, it is not required for adults. However, if you are under 18, Virginia requires you to complete an approved driver education course before you can get a license. Check the Virginia DMV website for a list of approved courses in your area.

What if I have a disability that affects my driving?

Tell the DMV when you schedule your test. They can arrange accommodations such as hand controls, a vehicle with an automatic transmission, or extra time for the written test. Call ahead to discuss what you need so the testing location can prepare.

How much does the driver license test cost?

The written test and vision screening cost $16. The driving test costs $20. If you retake either test, you pay the fee again. Fees may vary slightly, so check the Virginia DMV website for current prices before you go.