What you need to do to get a Virginia learner's permit

To get a Virginia learner's permit, you must visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. Virginia does not offer online testing or mail-in permits. You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and a completed process form. The whole process typically takes one visit, though you should plan for wait times at the DMV.

Virginia issues learner's permits to people ages 15 and older. If you're under 18, you'll also need a parent or guardian to sign your process. The permit is valid for five years and costs $16 as of the most recent fee schedule, though fees can change—call your local DMV office to confirm the current price before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to obtain a learner's permit.
  • All applicants must pass a written knowledge test covering Virginia traffic laws and road signs; the test has 35 questions and you need 28 correct to pass.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process and may need to be present at the DMV office.
  • A Virginia learner's permit costs $16 and is valid for five years from the date of issue.
  • You can practice driving with a licensed adult age 21 or older, but you cannot drive alone and must follow all permit restrictions.

Documents to bring to the DMV

Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity. Virginia accepts a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a state ID from another state. A school ID or a photocopy of any of these documents will not work—the DMV requires the original or a certified copy.

You also need proof that you live in Virginia. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government letter addressed to you at your current address. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement usually does not count.

Bring your Social Security number or your Social Security card. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. You'll also need to complete a Virginia DMV process for Driver's License or Permit (Form DL 43), which you can read from the Virginia DMV website or fill out at the office.

The written knowledge test

The Virginia knowledge test has 35 multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass. The test covers Virginia-specific rules, such as speed limits, right-of-way laws, and what different road signs mean. You take the test on a computer at the DMV office, and you receive your score when ready.

You can study for the test using the Virginia Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the DMV website. Many people also use practice tests online, though the official manual is the most reliable source for Virginia-specific content. You are allowed to take the test up to three times in one day if you fail, but you must pay the fee each time you retake it.

Age requirements and parental consent

Virginia issues learner's permits to people age 15 and older. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process. Some DMV offices require the parent or guardian to be present in person; others allow you to bring a signed form. Call your local DMV office ahead of time to find out what your office requires.

If you are 18 or older, you do not need parental consent. You can complete the process and take the test on your own. However, you still need to bring all required documents and pass the knowledge test.

Restrictions on driving with a learner's permit

With a Virginia learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver age 21 or older is sitting next to you in the front seat. You cannot drive alone under any circumstances. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., even with a licensed adult present, until you have held your permit for at least six months or until you turn 18, whichever comes first.

You must obey all traffic laws and speed limits. You cannot use a cell phone or any handheld device while driving, even to text or check directions. If you are caught violating permit restrictions, you may face fines or suspension of your permit. These rules are in place to help new drivers gain experience in a controlled way before driving alone.

Finding your local DMV office and scheduling

Virginia DMV offices are located throughout the state. You can find the office nearest you on the Virginia DMV website by entering your city or zip code. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others operate by appointment only. During busy times, walk-in wait times can be several hours, so calling ahead or booking an appointment online can save you time.

To schedule an appointment, visit the Virginia DMV website or call the DMV customer service line. If you choose to walk in, arrive early in the day—offices tend to be less crowded in the morning. Bring all required documents and plan to spend at least 30 minutes to an hour at the office, even with an appointment.

What happens after you pass

Once you pass the knowledge test, the DMV will issue your learner's permit on the spot. Your permit is a physical card that you must carry with you every time you drive. The permit is valid for five years. You can renew it before it expires by visiting a DMV office and paying the renewal fee.

While you hold your learner's permit, you can practice driving with a licensed adult. After you have held your permit for the required time and feel ready, you can take the road test to earn your full driver's license. Virginia requires you to hold your permit for a minimum of 30 days before you can take the road test, though many people practice for much longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I have a suspended or revoked license from another state?

No. Virginia will not issue a learner's permit if you have an active suspension or revocation in Virginia or any other state. You must resolve the suspension or revocation in that state first. Contact the DMV in the state where the suspension is active to find out what steps you need to take.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake the test up to three times in one day, but you must pay the fee each time. If you fail all three attempts, you must wait at least one day before you can test again. Most people study the Virginia Driver's Manual more thoroughly and pass on their second or third attempt.

Do I need a learner's permit if I already have a license from another state?

If you are moving to Virginia and already hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not need a learner's permit. You can transfer your license to Virginia by visiting a DMV office with your out-of-state license and proof of residency. However, if your out-of-state license is suspended or expired, you will need to obtain a Virginia learner's permit first.

Can I use my learner's permit to drive in other states?

A Virginia learner's permit is only valid in Virginia. If you travel to another state, you cannot drive on your Virginia permit. Some states have reciprocal agreements, but it is safest to assume your permit is not valid outside Virginia. Check with the DMV in the state you are visiting if you need to drive there.

How much does a Virginia learner's permit cost?

A Virginia learner's permit costs $16, though this fee can change. The fee covers the permit itself and the knowledge test. If you retake the test, you pay the fee again for each attempt. Call your local DMV office to confirm the current fee before you visit.