What You Need to Do to Get a Virginia Driver's License

To get a Virginia driver's license, you'll visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles office with the right documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the fee. The whole process typically takes a few weeks from start to finish, though the actual office visit usually runs 30 to 45 minutes once you're called. Virginia requires you to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number before you can take either test.

The path splits depending on whether you're a new driver, moving to Virginia from another state, or renewing an expired license. Each route has different document requirements and test rules. This guide walks through what you'll actually encounter at the DMV and what happens between your first visit and the day your license arrives in the mail.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original documents proving your identity, Virginia residency, and Social Security number to your first DMV visit—photocopies and digital photos do not work.
  • New drivers under 18 must hold a learner's permit for at least 15 days and complete a driver education course before taking the road test.
  • The written test covers Virginia traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Virginia DMV manual available online or in print at any DMV office.
  • Your physical license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you pass the road test; you'll receive a temporary paper license to drive when ready.
  • If you're moving from another state, you have 60 days to exchange your old license for a Virginia one, though you can do it sooner.

Documents You'll Need at Your First Visit

Bring originals, not copies. The DMV will not accept photocopies, faxes, or photos of documents on your phone. You need one document proving your identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), one document proving you live in Virginia (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you don't have a Social Security card, bring a W-2, tax return, or 1099 form instead.

If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They'll need to sign your process in person. If you're explore for a Real ID-compliant license (which you'll need to fly domestically after May 2025), bring the same documents plus proof of your current address if your identity document doesn't show it. A Real ID costs the same as a standard license and is recommended even if you don't fly regularly.

The Written Test: What to Study and How to Pass

The written test has 35 questions about Virginia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 28 correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you can request a reader if you have a documented learning disability. You get one attempt per visit; if you fail, you can retake it the same day by paying the test fee again, or come back another day.

Study using the Virginia Driver's Manual, which is free and available as a PDF on the DMV website or in print at any DMV office. The manual covers everything the test asks about. Most people spend 3 to 5 hours studying before they feel ready. The test is on a computer at the DMV, and you'll get your results when ready. If you pass, you'll move on to scheduling your road test. If you fail, ask the DMV staff which sections to focus on before your next attempt.

Getting Your Learner's Permit (If You're Under 18)

If you're under 18, you must get a learner's permit before you can take the road test. You'll get the permit the same day you pass the written test. The permit is valid for one year and lets you drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front passenger seat. You must hold the permit for at least 15 days before you're allowed to take the road test.

While you have the permit, you must complete a driver education course—either in-person classroom instruction or an online course approved by Virginia. The course takes about 6 to 8 hours total. Once you finish, you'll get a certificate of completion that you'll bring to your road test appointment. You can schedule your road test anytime after the 15-day waiting period ends and you have your course certificate.

Scheduling and Taking Your Road Test

Schedule your road test online through the Virginia DMV website or by calling your local DMV office. Road test appointments typically have a wait of 2 to 4 weeks depending on how busy your area is. When you arrive for your test, bring your learner's permit (or your written test receipt if you're 18 or older), proof of insurance, and the vehicle you'll be driving. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition—the examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before you start.

The test itself lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe decision-making. You'll drive on local roads, not the highway. The examiner will ask you to perform specific maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, and backing up. You pass if you demonstrate safe control and follow all traffic laws. If you fail, you can retake the test; there's no waiting period between attempts, though you'll need to schedule another appointment and pay the test fee again.

What Happens After You Pass the Road Test

When you pass the road test, the examiner will give you a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. This lets you drive when ready while your physical license is being made. Your actual license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The address on your license will be the Virginia address you provided at your first DMV visit, so make sure it's correct before you leave the office.

Your license is valid for five years from the date it's issued. If you move before your license arrives, you can update your address online through the DMV website or at any DMV office. Changing your address does not cost anything and does not require a new photo or test.

If You're Moving to Virginia From Another State

You have 60 days from the date you establish Virginia residency to exchange your old license for a Virginia one. You don't have to wait the full 60 days—you can do it sooner. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security card or equivalent document. You won't have to take the written or road test if your out-of-state license is valid and you're at least 18 years old.

If your out-of-state license has expired or is suspended, you'll need to take both tests. If you're under 18, Virginia requires you to hold a learner's permit for 15 days and complete a driver education course before taking the road test, even if you had a valid license in your previous state. The fee for exchanging your license is the same as getting a new one.

Fees and Payment

A five-year Virginia driver's license costs $70. The written test costs $10 if you need to retake it. The road test costs $20 per attempt. If you want a Real ID-compliant license, there's no additional charge—it costs the same $70. The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at all offices. If you're paying by mail (which you can do for some services), include a check or money order.

If you're under 18, the fee is the same. If you're exchanging an out-of-state license, you'll pay the $70 Virginia fee, and your old license will be returned to you or destroyed depending on your state's rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test and road test on the same day?

No. You must pass the written test first, then schedule your road test for a later date. If you're under 18, you also need to wait 15 days after getting your learner's permit and complete your driver education course before you can take the road test.

What if I fail the road test?

You can retake it as soon as you schedule another appointment. There's no waiting period between attempts. You'll pay the $20 test fee each time you take it. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a Virginia license?

Yes, you must provide your Social Security number or a document showing it. If you don't have a Social Security card, bring a W-2, tax return, or 1099 form instead. If you're not may be able to access for a Social Security number, contact your local DMV office to discuss other options.

What if my address changes after I get my license?

Update your address online through the DMV website or visit any DMV office. There's no fee to change your address, and you don't need a new photo or test. Your license remains valid.

How long does it take to get my physical license in the mail?

Your license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after you pass the road test. You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready that's valid for 45 days, so you can drive right away.