Virginia learner's permit fee is $20, and you pay it when you pass the written test at the DMV

Virginia charges a flat $20 fee for a learner's permit (also called a learner's license). You pay this fee only once, at the moment you pass your written knowledge test at a DMV office. There is no separate process fee — the $20 covers the permit itself and its issuance.

The permit is valid for one year from the date you receive it. If you do not pass the written test on your first attempt, you do not pay the $20 until you pass. You can retake the test, but each attempt costs money: Virginia charges $7 per written test attempt, whether you pass or fail.

When you are ready to get your full driver's license after holding the learner's permit for the required time and passing the road test, you will pay a separate fee for that license — not included in the learner's permit cost.

Key Takeaways

  • The learner's permit itself costs $20 and is paid only after you pass the written test.
  • Each written test attempt costs $7, separate from the permit fee, whether you pass or fail.
  • The permit is valid for one year from the date you receive it at the DMV.
  • You will pay an additional fee later when you take your road test and receive your full driver's license.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of Virginia residency, and proof of identity to avoid delays or rejection at the DMV.

What documents you need to bring to avoid paying twice

Bring the correct documents the first time so you do not have to return to the DMV and pay the test fee again. Virginia requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Virginia residency.

For proof of identity, bring a birth certificate (original or certified copy), a passport, or a state ID. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Virginia address.

If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must also be present with their own ID. Bring all documents in person — you cannot submit them online or by mail for a learner's permit.

How the $7 test fee works if you fail

If you do not pass the written test on your first try, you pay $7 to retake it. You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment. Each attempt — whether it results in a pass or a fail — costs $7.

Some people take the test three or four times before passing. If that happens to you, you will pay $7 for each failed attempt, then $20 when you finally pass. Keep track of how many times you have taken it so you know what to expect at the counter.

There is no limit on how many times you can retake the written test, but Virginia does not refund the $7 fee if you change your mind or do not show up for your scheduled test.

Payment methods accepted at Virginia DMV offices

Virginia DMV offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices also accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm is safer than assuming. You cannot pay online before you arrive — payment happens in person after you pass the test.

If you are paying for multiple things at once (for example, a test fee and the permit fee), the DMV will itemize the charges so you can see exactly what you are paying for.

Timeline: when you pay and when you get your permit

You pay the $20 permit fee when ready after passing the written test, at the same DMV visit. The DMV then issues your learner's permit on the spot — you walk out with it the same day. There is no waiting period or mail delivery.

Your permit is valid for one year from that date. You must hold it for a minimum of nine months (if you are under 18) or no minimum time (if you are 18 or older) before you can take the road test and move to a full driver's license.

What happens if you lose your learner's permit

If you lose your permit before it expires, you will need to pay a replacement fee to get a new one. Virginia charges $10 to replace a lost learner's permit. You do not retake the written test — you straightforward pay the replacement fee and receive a new card with the same expiration date as your original.

Bring your ID and proof of residency to request a replacement, just as you did for the original. The replacement permit is issued the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the $20 permit fee if I fail the written test?

No. You only pay $20 after you pass the test. If you fail, you pay $7 to retake it. The $20 permit fee is charged only when you pass and receive your permit.

Can I pay the permit fee online or by mail?

No. You must pay in person at a Virginia DMV office after you pass the written test. Payment happens at the counter when you receive your permit.

Is the $20 learner's permit fee the same for everyone?

Yes. Virginia charges all applicants $20 for a learner's permit, regardless of age. The fee does not vary by county or DMV office.

What if I turn 18 while holding a learner's permit — do I pay again?

No. Your learner's permit remains valid until its one-year expiration date, even if you turn 18. You do not pay a new fee or get a new permit just because of your birthday.

How much will I pay for my full driver's license after I pass the road test?

Virginia charges $24 for a five-year driver's license for adults 21 and older, and $12 for a three-year license for drivers under 21. You also pay a $7 fee for the road test itself. These are separate from the $20 learner's permit fee you already paid.