What you need to do to get a Virginia learner's permit

To get a Virginia learner's permit, you visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. You then pass a written test on Virginia traffic laws and road signs. Once you pass, you pay the fee and receive your permit the same day. The whole process takes a few hours.

A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car — it is not a full license. In Virginia, you must hold a learner's permit for a minimum of nine months and be at least 16 years old before you can take the road test for a full license.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued ID, proof you live in Virginia, and your Social Security number to the DMV office in person.
  • The written test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules — you can study using the Virginia DMV manual available online for free.
  • You pay a fee at the DMV when you pass the test; the amount varies but is typically under $20 for a learner's permit.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for five years, and you must keep a licensed adult driver in the front seat whenever you drive.
  • You cannot hold a learner's permit and a full driver's license at the same time — you must give up your permit when you pass the road test.

Documents to bring to the DMV

Virginia requires three categories of documents when you explore for a learner's permit. First, you need a government-issued photo ID — a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card all work. Second, you need proof that you live in Virginia: a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address will do. Third, you must provide your Social Security number.

If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must be present at the DMV. Bring their ID as well. If your documents are not in English, bring an official translation along with the original.

Studying for the written test

The Virginia DMV written test has 35 questions, and you must answer at least 28 correctly to pass. The test covers traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, and safe driving practices. You have no time limit to complete it.

The Virginia DMV publishes a free manual called the Virginia Driver's Manual on its website. This manual contains all the information tested on the exam. You can read it online, read it as a PDF, or request a printed copy at any DMV office. Most people study the manual for a few days or a week before taking the test. The test is given on a computer at the DMV office, and you see your results when ready.

If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you may have to pay a retest fee each time.

The cost and how long the permit lasts

A Virginia learner's permit costs between $15 and $20, depending on which DMV office you visit and whether you pay in cash or by card. This is a one-time fee that covers the permit itself and the written test. If you retake the written test, you typically pay an additional fee of $5 to $10.

Once you receive your permit, it is valid for five years from the date of issue. You do not need to renew it during those five years unless you move out of state or your identity information changes. When your five years are up, you can renew it at any DMV office.

Rules for driving with a learner's permit in Virginia

With a Virginia learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting in the front passenger seat next to you. That adult must have a valid driver's license. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have only a licensed driver in the back seat — they must be in the front.

There are no restrictions on the times you can drive or the roads you can use, as long as a licensed adult is with you. You can drive on highways, at night, and in any weather. However, you must follow all traffic laws, including speed limits and traffic signals. Any violation while you are driving can result in a ticket issued to you or to the supervising adult, depending on the violation.

You must carry your learner's permit with you whenever you drive. If you are stopped by police and cannot show your permit, you may be cited. You also must have proof of insurance in the vehicle.

When you are ready to take the road test

You can take the Virginia road test after you have held your learner's permit for at least nine months and reached your 16th birthday. The road test itself lasts about 20 minutes and takes place in a vehicle at your local DMV office. A DMV examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches you drive on local roads.

To schedule a road test, you contact your local DMV office by phone or online. Road test appointments fill up quickly, especially in busy areas, so book as far in advance as you can. When you arrive for your test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

If you pass the road test, you receive your full driver's license the same day. If you do not pass, you can retake the test after waiting a set period — usually a few days to a week. You can retake it as many times as you need.

What happens if you move or your information changes

If you move to a different Virginia address while holding a learner's permit, you should notify the DMV of your new address. You can do this online through the Virginia DMV website, by mail, or in person at any DMV office. Your permit remains valid; you do not need a new one.

If you move out of Virginia, your learner's permit is no longer valid in your new state. You will need to follow that state's process to get a learner's permit there. If you change your name, you must bring documentation of the change (such as a marriage certificate or court order) to the DMV and request an updated permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I am homeschooled?

Yes. Virginia does not require you to be enrolled in a public or private school to get a learner's permit. You only need to meet the age requirement (16 years old) and bring the required documents to the DMV.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or return to the DMV another day. There is no waiting period between attempts. Each retake may have a small fee, but you can try as many times as you need until you pass.

Do I need to take a driver's education course before getting a learner's permit?

No. Virginia does not require a driver's education course to get a learner's permit. However, completing an approved course can lower your car insurance rates and may help you feel more confident before taking the road test.

Can someone other than my parent supervise me while I drive with a learner's permit?

Yes. The supervising driver must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver's license, but they do not have to be your parent or guardian. An older sibling, aunt, uncle, or trusted adult can supervise your practice driving.

What if I lose my learner's permit?

Contact your local DMV office to report it lost. You can request a replacement permit, which typically costs a small fee (usually $5 to $10). Bring your ID and proof of residency, just as you did for the original process.