How to Get Your Virginia Learner's Permit (DMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Learner's Permit through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Learner's Permit in Virginia, you must be at least 15 years, 6 months and apply in person at the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Virginia's two-part knowledge exam covers road signs and general driving knowledge from the Virginia Driver's Manual. Teens hold the learner's permit at least nine months and log 45 hours of supervised practice before the road test.
Documents to bring to the DMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- One document proving your identity and one proving your legal presence in the United States (all documents must be originals; photocopies and temporary documents are not accepted).
- Proof of your Social Security number, or electronic verification of it if you have been issued one.
- Two documents proving your Virginia residency, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or mortgage or rental agreement.
- A completed driver's license and identification card application, signed by a parent or legal guardian to give written consent if you are under 18.
- Applicants under 18 must complete a state-approved driver education program before receiving a license; enrollment or the classroom certificate may be required to progress through the licensing process.
The knowledge test
In Virginia, the knowledge test is taken in person. The knowledge exam is a two-part test taken in person: part one has 10 traffic sign questions that must all be answered correctly to move on, and part two has 30 general knowledge questions covering motor vehicle laws and safe driving, requiring 24 correct (80 percent) to pass.
Rehearse with our free Virginia practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Virginia Practice Test →Fees
The DMV charges $3 learner's permit fee plus the yearly cost of a driver's license (see the DMV fee chart for the total). for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Virginia residents under 18 must hold the learner's permit for at least nine months before getting a driver's license and must complete at least 45 hours of supervised driving practice, 15 of which are after sunset, certified by a parent or guardian. Supervising drivers must generally be at least 21 (or 18 if a legal guardian or sibling).
Virginia permit FAQ
How many questions is the Virginia permit test?
The DMV knowledge test has about 35 questions, and you need all 10 road-sign questions plus 20 of 25 general questions (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Virginia permit test online?
In Virginia, the knowledge test is taken in person. The knowledge exam is a two-part test taken in person: part one has 10 traffic sign questions that must all be answered correctly to move on, and part two has 30 general knowledge questions covering motor vehicle laws and safe driving, requiring 24 correct (80 percent) to pass.
What do I need to bring to the DMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Virginia residency, plus anything required for a Learner's Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Virginia permit?
You can apply for a Learner's Permit at 15 years, 6 months in Virginia, provided you meet the DMV's other requirements.
How much does a Virginia permit cost?
The DMV charges $3 learner's permit fee plus the yearly cost of a driver's license (see the DMV fee chart for the total). for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DMV.
What happens if I fail the Virginia permit test?
Applicants under 18 who fail must wait a full 15 days before retaking the exam, while those 18 and older may test only once per day. If you fail three times, you must complete a Virginia-approved driver training program before testing again.
Official sources: www.dmv.virginia.gov · www.dmv.virginia.gov · www.dmv.virginia.gov