The basic process: what you'll do and where

To get a Virginia driver's license, you'll visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person, bring the required documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the fee. Virginia does not issue licenses by mail or online. You must show up with proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and a completed process form — then take both tests on the same day or schedule the driving test for later.

The entire process takes between one and three hours at the DMV office, depending on wait times and whether you pass both tests on your first attempt. If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you'll need to return to the DMV another day and pay a retest fee.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Virginia DMV office in person with original documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number.
  • The written test covers Virginia traffic laws and safe driving practices; you need a score of at least 70 percent to pass.
  • The driving test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely; an examiner rides with you in your own car or a DMV vehicle.
  • Virginia charges a fee for a driver's license that varies by license type and validity period, and you'll pay extra if you retake either test.
  • You can schedule your driving test appointment online or by phone before you visit, which reduces wait time at the office.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring one document from each of these three categories: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. Original documents only — copies are not accepted. A document can count toward more than one category if it contains the required information.

Proof of identity: U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, state ID from another state, certified birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your visa or travel document along with your birth certificate.

Proof of residency: A utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Virginia address. A piece of mail from your employer counts if it shows your home address.

Proof of Social Security number: Your Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full Social Security number. 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.

Completing the process and paying the fee

Fill out form DL-44 (process for Driver's License) before you arrive at the DMV, or the staff will give you one to complete at the office. The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and whether you want to register as an organ donor. You'll also declare whether you have any medical conditions that affect your ability to drive.

The fee for a Virginia driver's license depends on how long you want it to be valid. A license valid for five years costs less than one valid for eight years. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the DMV. If you fail a test and need to retake it, you'll pay a separate retest fee each time.

Taking the written test

The written test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You answer 35 multiple-choice questions on a computer or paper form, and you must score at least 70 percent (25 correct answers) to pass. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Virginia provides a free study guide called the Virginia Driver's Manual on the DMV website. You can read it online or request a printed copy at any DMV office. The manual covers everything on the test, and most people who study it pass on their first attempt.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another time. You'll pay the retest fee each time you take it again.

Taking the driving test

The driving test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely in real-world conditions. A DMV examiner rides with you and watches how you handle steering, braking, parking, turning, and responding to traffic signals and other drivers. The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and covers both city streets and highway driving.

You can use your own vehicle or a DMV vehicle for the test. If you use your own car, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn before you start. Bring proof of insurance and vehicle registration.

You must pass the written test before you take the driving test. You can schedule the driving test appointment online through the Virginia DMV website, by phone, or in person at the DMV office. Scheduling ahead reduces your wait time.

Scheduling your appointment and reducing wait times

The Virginia DMV allows you to schedule appointments online at dmvnow.com. You can book a time slot for the written test, the driving test, or both on the same day. Scheduling ahead means you won't wait as long at the office, though you may still wait 15 to 30 minutes past your appointment time.

Some DMV offices are busier than others. If your local office has long wait times, you can travel to a less busy office in a nearby county. The DMV website shows current wait times at each location so you can choose the best time to visit.

Walk-in appointments are accepted, but you'll wait longer. If you walk in without scheduling, expect to wait one to three hours depending on the time of day and the office location.

What happens after you pass both tests

Once you pass the written test and the driving test, the DMV will issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office. Your license is valid when ready, even if you haven't received the physical card yet — you can drive legally as soon as you pass.

Your first Virginia driver's license is valid for five or eight years, depending on which option you chose when you paid the fee. When your license expires, you'll renew it by mail, online, or in person at the DMV.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can pass the written test in the morning and take the driving test in the afternoon on the same day, or you can schedule them weeks apart. It's up to you. Many people prefer to do both on the same day to get it over with, but you're not required to.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it as many times as you need. You'll pay the retest fee each time. Most DMV offices let you schedule another appointment right away, so you could retake it within a few days if you want to practice and try again quickly.

Do I need a learner's permit before I get a full driver's license?

No. Virginia does not require a learner's permit as a step toward a full license for adults. You can go straight to the full license test. Learner's permits are only for people under 18 who are in Virginia's graduated licensing program.

What if I 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 a number. You can request this letter by contacting Social Security directly or visiting your local Social Security office.

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport for proof of identity?

Yes. A passport card is accepted as proof of identity and counts as a federal document, so it's one of the strongest forms of ID you can bring to the DMV.