The Virginia permit test has 35 questions, and you need to answer at least 28 correctly to pass

Virginia's written permit test is administered by the Department of Motor Vehicles and covers road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices. You will see 35 multiple-choice questions on the actual test. Each question has four possible answers. To pass, you must score at least 80 percent, which means getting 28 or more questions right.

The test is taken at a DMV office on a computer or on paper, depending on which location you visit. You have no time limit to complete the test, though most people finish in 20 to 30 minutes. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day before trying again.

Key Takeaways

  • Virginia's permit test contains 35 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 28 correctly to pass.
  • Questions cover Virginia traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices from the Virginia Driver's Manual.
  • You take the test at a DMV office on a computer or paper form, with no time limit.
  • If you fail, you can retake the test after waiting at least one day, and you can take it as many times as needed.

What topics the 35 questions cover

The Virginia DMV does not publish the exact breakdown of how many questions come from each topic, but the test draws from the official Virginia Driver's Manual. Questions focus on state-specific laws, traffic signs, and driving situations you will encounter on Virginia roads.

Common topics include right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts, speed limits and when they change, parking rules, seat belt and child safety seat laws, what to do at traffic lights and stop signs, and how to handle emergency vehicles. You will also see questions about impaired driving laws, distracted driving, and what happens if you get a traffic ticket.

Road signs make up a significant portion of the test. You need to recognize and understand the meaning of warning signs (yellow), regulatory signs (white and red), and guide signs (green and blue). The test may show you a sign image and ask what it means, or describe a situation and ask which sign applies.

How the test is scored and what happens if you fail

Your score is calculated when ready after you finish the test. If you pass, you receive a permit that day and can begin supervised driving. If you score below 80 percent, you fail and must wait at least one day before retaking it.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test. Some people pass on the first try; others need two or three attempts. Each time you retake it, you will see different questions from the same pool of topics, so studying the Virginia Driver's Manual between attempts is the most effective way to improve your score.

How to prepare for the 35-question test

The Virginia DMV provides the official Driver's Manual free online and in print at any DMV office. This manual contains all the information you need to answer the test questions. Reading through it once gives you a foundation, but most people study it in sections — a few pages per day — and review the parts they find confusing.

Practice tests are the most effective way to prepare. Many websites and apps offer Virginia permit practice tests with questions in the same format and difficulty as the real test. Taking several practice tests helps you identify which topics you need to study more and builds confidence before test day. Some practice tests are free; others charge a small fee.

When you take a practice test, treat it like the real test: sit in a quiet place, do not use your phone, and time yourself if you want to know how long you typically need. After you finish, review every question you missed, not just the ones you got wrong by accident. Understanding why an answer is correct matters more than memorizing facts.

What to bring and expect on test day

Bring a valid form of identification and proof of your Social Security number. A driver's license from another state, a passport, or a military ID all work. If you do not have a Social Security card, bring a document that shows your number, such as a tax return or W-2 form.

Arrive at the DMV office at least 15 minutes early. You will check in, pay the permit test fee (which varies by location but is typically under $20), and then be called to a testing station. The test administrator will verify your identity and explain how to use the computer or paper form. You can ask questions about how to take the test, but not about the test content itself.

Retaking the test if you do not pass

If you score below 28 correct answers, you will receive a notice showing which topics gave you trouble. You do not have to wait a full week or month — you can return the next day and retake it. However, you will pay the test fee again each time you take it.

Between attempts, focus your study on the topics where you struggled. If you missed many questions about right-of-way, spend extra time on that section of the manual. If road signs tripped you up, find practice tests that focus on sign recognition. Most people who fail the first time pass on the second or third attempt after targeted study.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. You cannot bring notes, textbooks, or phones into the testing area. The test is proctored, meaning a DMV staff member watches to may support no one cheats. You are allowed to ask the test administrator for clarification about how to use the computer or form, but not about test content.

What happens if I pass the permit test?

You receive your learner's permit the same day. The permit is valid for a set period (check your state's rules for the exact length) and allows you to drive with a licensed adult in the car. You must follow all permit restrictions, such as speed limits for new drivers and rules about who can be in the car with you.

Is the permit test the same as the driver's license test?

No. The permit test is written only and covers road rules and signs. The driver's license test includes the written test plus a driving skills test where an examiner watches you drive and evaluates your ability to handle a vehicle safely on real roads.

How long is the permit valid after I pass the test?

Virginia learner's permits are valid for one year from the date of issue. If your permit expires before you pass the driving skills test and get your license, you will need to retake the written test and pay the fee again.

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

Yes. Virginia offers the permit test in multiple languages at most DMV offices. Call your local DMV office or check the Virginia DMV website to confirm which languages are available at your location and whether you need to schedule in advance.