What you need to bring to the DMV
Virginia requires you to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number before you can get a driver's license. The exact documents depend on whether you are a first-time applicant, renewing an expired license, or transferring from another state.
For proof of identity, bring your birth certificate (original or certified copy), passport, or military ID. For proof of Virginia residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. You will also need to provide your Social Security number — you can bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form as proof.
If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must accompany you and bring their own ID and proof of residency. If you are transferring a license from another state, bring your current out-of-state license along with the documents above.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number before you can take the written test.
- The written knowledge test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices, and you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
- The road test evaluates basic vehicle control, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws, and examiners fail you only if you commit a critical error or accumulate too many minor mistakes.
- A Virginia driver's license costs $70 for an eight-year license or $35 for a four-year license, and you can renew online if your license is not suspended or revoked.
- If you fail the road test, you must wait at least one business day before scheduling another attempt, and you pay the full test fee each time.
Taking the written knowledge test at the DMV
Once you have submitted your documents, you will take the written test at the DMV office. The test has 35 multiple-choice questions covering Virginia traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 25 questions correctly (70 percent) to pass.
The test is offered on a computer at most Virginia DMV offices. You can take it in English or Spanish. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most locations, though some offices may require you to schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake the written test on the same day.
Virginia provides a free study guide called the Virginia Driver's Manual on the DMV website. Many people also use the DMV's online practice tests to prepare. You do not need to memorize every rule — the test focuses on common situations and hazards you will encounter on the road.
Scheduling and taking the road test
After you pass the written test, you can schedule your road test. Virginia DMV allows you to book road tests online through its website, by phone at 1-866-368-5463, or in person at a DMV office. Road test appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, especially in urban areas like Northern Virginia and Richmond, so schedule as soon as you pass the written exam.
For the road test, bring your permit (if you are under 18), proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving. The vehicle must be registered, have valid inspection and emissions stickers, and have working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and mirrors. The examiner will check these before you drive.
The road test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, parking, lane changes, turns, and your response to traffic signals and other drivers. You will drive on local roads, not highways. The examiner is looking for safe driving habits and your ability to follow traffic laws. Critical errors — such as hitting another vehicle, running a red light, or failing to yield — result in automatic failure. Minor mistakes accumulate, and too many will also result in failure.
Costs and processing time
A Virginia driver's license costs $70 for an eight-year license (standard for adults 21 and older) or $35 for a four-year license. Teenagers under 18 pay the same fees. Payment is due at the DMV office when you explore, and Virginia accepts cash, debit, and credit cards.
Your license is usually ready to pick up the same day you pass the road test, though some offices may mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while you wait for the plastic card. If you need your license sooner, ask the DMV office whether they offer expedited processing.
If you fail the road test
If you do not pass the road test, you must wait at least one business day before scheduling another attempt. You pay the full road test fee each time you take it — there is no discount for retakes. The examiner will give you a written report explaining which maneuvers or traffic situations caused the failure.
Many people pass on their second or third attempt after practicing the specific skills the examiner noted. Focus on the areas where you struggled — parallel parking, lane changes, or responding to traffic signals — rather than relearning everything. Some driving schools in Virginia offer test-prep lessons that can help you identify and fix weak spots.
Renewing or replacing your license
Virginia driver's licenses expire eight years after issue for adults 21 and older, and four years for drivers under 21. You can renew online through the Virginia DMV website if your license is not suspended or revoked and you have not had any address changes. Online renewal costs $70 and takes about 7 to 10 business days.
If you need to renew in person, visit any DMV office with proof of identity and residency. You do not need to retake the written or road test unless your license has been expired for more than one year. If your license is lost or stolen, report it to the DMV and request a replacement card for $20.
Special situations: Permits, transfers, and restrictions
If you are under 18, Virginia requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least 60 days before taking the road test. The permit costs $20 and is valid for one year. With a permit, you must have a licensed driver 21 or older in the front seat with you at all times.
If you are transferring a license from another state, you do not need to retake the written or road test if your out-of-state license is valid. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of identity, and proof of Virginia residency to any DMV office. The fee is $70 for an eight-year license.
Virginia issues restricted licenses to drivers with medical conditions or vision problems that require limitations — such as daylight driving only or corrective lenses required. The DMV will note any restrictions on your license based on your medical history and the results of the vision screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online or by mail?
No. Virginia requires you to take the written test in person at a DMV office. You cannot take it online or mail it in. However, you can prepare using the free Virginia Driver's Manual and practice tests on the DMV website before your appointment.
What happens if I fail the written test twice?
You can retake the written test as many times as needed. There is no limit on attempts, and there is no additional fee if you retake it the same day. If you fail multiple times, consider using the DMV's study materials or asking someone to quiz you on the Virginia Driver's Manual before your next attempt.
Do I need a permit before I can take the road test?
Only if you are under 18. Adults 18 and older can take the road test after passing the written test without holding a permit first. Teenagers must hold a learner's permit for at least 60 days and practice with a licensed adult before scheduling the road test.
What if my vehicle fails the safety check before the road test?
The examiner will not conduct the road test if the vehicle does not have working lights, wipers, mirrors, or a valid inspection sticker. You will need to fix the problem and reschedule your test. There is no refund for a cancelled test due to vehicle issues.
Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than a year?
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must retake the written and road tests as if you were a new driver. You cannot renew by mail or online. Visit a DMV office to restart the process.