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

To get a Virginia driver's license, you must visit a DMV customer service center in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. Virginia does not issue licenses by mail or online. The entire process — from your first visit through passing the road test — typically takes two to four weeks, depending on how quickly you schedule your appointment and pass the tests.

You cannot skip the in-person requirement or the road test, even if you hold a valid license from another state. Virginia will accept an out-of-state license as proof of driving experience and may waive the written test if your license is current, but you must still take and pass the Virginia driving skills test before the DMV will issue your card.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Virginia DMV customer service center in person with original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and current Virginia residency.
  • The written knowledge test covers Virginia traffic laws and road signs; you may be waived from this test if you hold a valid out-of-state driver's license.
  • The driving skills test is required for all first-time Virginia license holders and must be scheduled separately after you pass the written test.
  • Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your full SSN, a birth certificate or passport, and two documents proving your current Virginia address.
  • The total cost is $24 for a five-year license or $48 for an eight-year license; fees are paid at your first DMV visit.

Documents You Must Bring to the DMV

Virginia requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current residency. You must bring original documents — copies, faxes, and digital photos are not accepted. If any document is not in English, you must bring a certified English translation along with the original.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate issued by the state or county where you were born, a valid passport from your country of origin (with certified English translation if needed), or a valid visa or immigration document. A school ID, work ID, or expired license does not count as proof of identity for a first-time Virginia license.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from ssa.gov. If you do not have a Social Security number, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

For proof of current Virginia residency, bring two documents dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a pay stub, a property tax bill, or a voter registration card. A cell phone bill or insurance bill does not count. Both documents must show your current name and Virginia address.

The Written Knowledge Test and What It Covers

The Virginia written test has 35 questions and covers traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and parking rules specific to Virginia. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly (80 percent) to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DMV, and you receive your score when ready.

If you hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state or territory, you may be waived from the written test. The DMV will check your driving record; if it is clean (no suspensions or serious violations in the past three years), you can skip the written test and move directly to scheduling your road test. If your out-of-state license is expired or your driving record shows violations, you must take the written test.

You can study for the test using the Virginia DMV's free online manual, available at dmvnow.com. The manual covers all topics on the test. Many people also use third-party study apps, though the DMV manual is the official source. You are allowed to take the written test up to three times in one day if you fail, but you must wait one day before retaking it a fourth time.

Scheduling and Taking Your Driving Skills Test

After you pass the written test, you must schedule a separate appointment for the driving skills test. You cannot take both tests on the same day. The DMV will give you information about scheduling when you pass the written test, or you can schedule online at dmvnow.com or by calling your local DMV customer service center.

The driving skills test takes about 20 to 30 minutes and includes a pre-drive vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control (backing, parking, turning), and on-road driving in normal traffic. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and insurance documents must be current and in the vehicle with you. A friend or family member can own the vehicle, but you must have permission to use it for the test.

You must pass the driving skills test to receive your Virginia license. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day before scheduling another appointment. Most people pass on their first or second attempt. Common reasons for failing include failing to use turn signals, improper lane changes, speeding, and not coming to a complete stop at stop signs.

Fees and License Validity Periods

Virginia offers two license options: a five-year license for $24 and an eight-year license for $48. Both are paid at your first DMV visit when you take the written test. You choose which option you want; there is no difference in the card itself, only in how long it remains valid.

Your license is valid for the full period you choose, starting from the date the DMV issues it. You do not need to renew it before it expires, but you cannot drive legally once it has expired. Renewal is a separate process and can be done by mail, online, or in person, depending on your situation at the time of renewal.

If You Are Moving to Virginia From Another State

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to surrender it to get a Virginia license. However, Virginia law requires you to obtain a Virginia license within 60 days of establishing residency in the state. After 60 days, driving on an out-of-state license is not legal in Virginia, even if the license itself is still valid.

You will still need to pass the Virginia driving skills test, but you may be waived from the written test if your out-of-state license is current and your driving record is clean. Bring your out-of-state license along with all other required documents (proof of identity, Social Security, and Virginia residency) to your first DMV appointment. The DMV will verify your out-of-state record before waiving the written test.

Common Mistakes That Delay Your License

The most common mistake is bringing documents that do not meet Virginia's requirements. Expired documents, documents not in your current name, or documents older than 60 days for residency proof will be rejected, and you will have to reschedule. Bring originals only — the DMV will not accept copies or photos, even if they are notarized.

Another frequent error is scheduling the road test before you are ready. You must pass the written test first, and you should practice driving in Virginia conditions before scheduling the skills test. Scheduling too quickly after passing the written test often leads to failing the road test and having to reschedule, which adds weeks to the process.

A third mistake is bringing a vehicle that fails inspection. The vehicle must have working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and mirrors. The tires must have adequate tread, and the brakes must work properly. If the vehicle fails inspection, your test is cancelled, and you must reschedule with a different vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Virginia license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. You must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a Social Security number. Bring this letter along with all other required documents. The DMV will issue your license with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of an SSN.

What if I fail the driving skills test?

You can retake it after waiting at least one day. There is no additional fee for retaking the test. You can retake it as many times as needed. Most people pass within two attempts. When you retake the test, you must bring the same vehicle documentation and a valid ID.

Do I have to take the written test if I have a valid license from another state?

Not if your out-of-state license is current and your driving record is clean. The DMV will check your record; if you have no suspensions or serious violations in the past three years, you will be waived from the written test. You must still pass the Virginia driving skills test.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass both tests?

The DMV issues your license card on the same day you pass the driving skills test, or within one business day. You will receive a temporary paper license at the DMV that is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

No. All tests must be taken in person at a Virginia DMV customer service center. You cannot take the written test online, and you cannot take the driving skills test anywhere except at a DMV location with a certified examiner.