What you need to bring to the DMV
Virginia's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires specific documents before you can get a learner's permit. You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Virginia residency. A valid passport works for identity. A Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return works for your Social Security number. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
If you are under 18, you also need a parent or guardian to be present with you at the DMV office. They will need to bring their own ID. If your parent cannot go in person, Virginia allows a notarized consent form signed by both parents or guardians, though you will still need to appear yourself.
Bring your documents in originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. The DMV office will make copies for you during your visit.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and Virginia residency to your local DMV office.
- If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must come with you, or you must bring a notarized consent form signed by both parents.
- You will take a written test covering Virginia traffic laws and road signs, and you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
- Your learner's permit is valid for five years and allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat.
- The fee is $16 for a five-year permit, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the DMV office.
The written test and what it covers
Before you receive your permit, you must pass a written test at the DMV. The test has 35 questions about Virginia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 25 questions correctly to pass — that is a score of 70 percent or higher.
The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergency vehicles. You can study using the Virginia DMV's free online manual, which is available on the DMV website. Many people also use the DMV's practice test tool to get familiar with the question format before they take the real test.
You can take the test on a computer at the DMV office. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time — there is no waiting period between attempts in Virginia.
Age requirements and permit restrictions
You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to get a learner's permit in Virginia. There is no upper age limit — adults can also get a learner's permit if they are new to driving.
Once you have your permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult who is 21 years old or older sitting in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive alone. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you must follow all regular traffic laws. If you are under 18, you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency.
Your learner's permit is valid for five years from the date you receive it. If it expires and you have not yet passed your road test for a full license, you will need to renew it at the DMV.
Finding your local DMV office and scheduling
Virginia has DMV offices in most counties and cities. You can find the office nearest you on the Virginia DMV website by entering your zip code. The website shows office hours, which vary by location — some offices are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours.
You do not need an appointment to take the written test for a learner's permit, but wait times can be long during peak hours. Many DMV offices are less crowded in the early morning or mid-week. If you want to check how busy an office is before you go, some Virginia DMV locations offer real-time wait time information on their website.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged while you wait.
The cost and payment methods
A Virginia learner's permit costs $16 for a five-year permit. This is a one-time fee — you do not pay again unless you need to replace a lost or damaged permit, which costs $15.
The DMV accepts cash, personal checks, debit cards, and credit cards. If you pay by check, make it out to the Virginia DMV. Some offices may have limits on which payment methods they accept, so calling ahead is a good idea if you want to confirm.
What happens after you pass the test
Once you pass the written test, the DMV will take your photograph and print your learner's permit on the spot. You will receive it before you leave the office. Your permit is a physical card that you must carry with you whenever you drive.
With your learner's permit in hand, you can now practice driving with a licensed adult. Virginia does not require a minimum number of practice hours before you can take your road test for a full license, but many driving instructors recommend at least 50 hours of practice, including 10 hours at night. You can take your road test once you feel ready, but you must still be accompanied by a licensed adult during the test itself.
Common reasons the DMV may deny your permit
The DMV will not issue a learner's permit if you cannot provide the required documents. If your identity document is expired, it may still work — bring it and ask the DMV staff. If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready or return another day.
If you have an active driver's license from another state, Virginia may not issue you a learner's permit. You would instead need to transfer your license or take a full road test. If you have had your license suspended or revoked in Virginia or another state, you will not be able to get a permit until that suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the Virginia DMV directly if you have questions about your driving record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online from home?
No. Virginia requires you to take the written test in person at a DMV office. You cannot take it online or by mail. You must go to a physical DMV location with your documents and take the test on a computer there.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day or come back another time. There is no waiting period between attempts in Virginia. You will need to pay the $16 fee again if you retake the test, though some offices may waive this — ask the DMV staff.
Do I need a Social Security number to get a learner's permit?
Yes. Virginia requires proof of your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, contact the Virginia DMV to ask about alternative forms of identification you may be able to use.
Can I drive with a learner's permit if I am 18 or older?
Yes. There is no age limit for getting a learner's permit. The same rules explore — you must have a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
How long does it take to get my permit after I pass the test?
The DMV prints your permit on the spot after you pass the written test. You will have it in your hands before you leave the office. There is no waiting period.