Virginia's learner's permit test has 35 questions, and you must answer at least 28 correctly to pass

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles gives you 35 multiple-choice questions on the written test for a learner's permit. You need a score of 80 percent — which means 28 correct answers out of 35 — to pass. The test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergencies. You get one attempt per visit to the DMV, though you can return and test again if you fail.

The test is offered in English and several other languages. You take it on a computer at the DMV office, and you'll know your score before you leave. If you pass, you can get your learner's permit the same day. If you don't pass, you'll need to wait before scheduling another test — Virginia requires a one-day waiting period between attempts.

Key Takeaways

  • Virginia's learner's permit written test contains 35 questions, and you must answer at least 28 correctly to pass.
  • The test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and emergency procedures.
  • You receive your score when ready after completing the test at the DMV office.
  • If you fail, you must wait at least one day before you can take the test again.
  • The test is available in multiple languages, and you take it on a computer during your DMV visit.

What the test covers and where questions come from

All 35 questions come from the Virginia Driver's Manual, which the DMV publishes and makes available free online and in print at any DMV office. The questions test your knowledge of Virginia-specific rules, not general driving knowledge. This means you need to study Virginia law, not just driving basics you might know from another state.

The test breaks down into several topic areas: traffic signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits and safe following distances, parking rules, what to do at traffic lights and stop signs, driving under the influence laws, and how to handle emergencies like a tire blowout or brake failure. You won't know which topics will appear on your specific test or how many questions will cover each one — the DMV randomizes the test from a larger question bank.

Because the questions are randomized, two people taking the test on the same day will see different questions. This is why studying the entire Virginia Driver's Manual matters more than trying to memorize a specific set of practice questions.

How to prepare for the 35-question test

Start by reading the Virginia Driver's Manual from beginning to end. The manual is organized by topic, so you can study one section at a time — traffic signs, then right-of-way, then parking, and so on. As you read, take notes on anything that seems like a test question: specific speed limits, what a yellow line means, how far back you must stay from a fire truck.

After you've read the manual, use the practice tests available on the Virginia DMV website. These practice tests use real questions from the test bank, so they show you the exact style and difficulty of the real test. Take the practice test more than once — aim for a score of 30 or higher (out of 35) before you schedule your real test. If you score below 28, go back to the manual and review the topics where you missed questions.

Many people find it helpful to study with a friend or family member who can quiz them on road signs and traffic rules. You can also read the Virginia Driver's Manual as a PDF and study it on your phone during breaks. The key is spacing out your study over several weeks rather than cramming the night before.

What happens on test day at the DMV

Arrive at your DMV office at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Bring your completed process (Form DL-44), your Social Security number, and proof of your date of birth and Virginia residency. You'll also need to show your parent or guardian's ID if you're under 18, since they must sign your process in person.

At the DMV, a staff member will check your documents and take your photo for your learner's permit. Then you'll be directed to a computer station where you'll take the written test. The test is timed — you have 30 minutes to answer all 35 questions. You can go back and change your answers before you submit, so take your time and read each question carefully.

Once you submit your test, the computer scores it when ready and displays your result on the screen. If you pass, you'll pay the permit fee (currently $16 for a four-year permit in Virginia) and receive your learner's permit before you leave. If you fail, you can schedule another test appointment, but you must wait at least one day.

What to study if you're retaking the test

If you don't pass on your first attempt, the DMV will tell you which topic areas you missed questions on. Use that feedback to focus your second round of studying. For example, if you missed several questions about right-of-way, spend extra time on that section of the Virginia Driver's Manual and take another practice test focusing on those rules.

Many people pass on their second or third attempt because they now know what to expect and can target their weak areas. There's no limit to how many times you can take the test, but each attempt costs the test fee and requires a new DMV appointment. Most people pass within two or three tries if they study the manual between attempts.

Differences between Virginia's test and other states

If you learned to drive in another state or country, Virginia's test may cover rules that are different from what you're used to. For example, Virginia has specific laws about passing on the right, using headlights in rain, and how to handle a school bus with its lights flashing. These rules vary by state, so you can't rely on knowledge from your home state.

The 35-question format is also standard for Virginia but may differ from other states' tests. Some states use fewer questions, others use more. The key is that Virginia's test is designed to test knowledge of Virginia law specifically, so studying the Virginia Driver's Manual is the only reliable way to prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. The test is proctored, meaning a DMV staff member watches while you take it. You cannot use your phone, notes, the Driver's Manual, or any other materials during the test. You must answer the questions from memory based on what you studied.

What if I don't pass all 35 questions but get 28 correct?

If you answer 28 or more questions correctly, you pass. You don't need to answer all 35 correctly — 28 out of 35 is an 80 percent score, which is Virginia's passing threshold. Once you reach 28 correct, you've passed the test.

How long does the test take?

You have 30 minutes to complete all 35 questions. Most people finish in 15 to 20 minutes, which gives you time to review your answers before submitting. You don't have to use all 30 minutes — you can submit whenever you're ready.

Can I take the test in a language other than English?

Yes. Virginia offers the learner's permit test in Spanish, French, Korean, and several other languages. When you schedule your DMV appointment, tell them which language you need, and they'll make sure a test is available in that language on your test date.

What if I fail the test twice?

There's no penalty for failing multiple times. You can retake the test as many times as you need. Each attempt requires a new DMV appointment and the test fee. Most people who study the Virginia Driver's Manual between attempts pass within two or three tries.