What You Need to Get a Virginia Learner's Permit

A Virginia learner's permit lets you drive under supervision before you take the road test for a full license. You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old, a Virginia resident, and pass a written knowledge test. You will also need to bring specific documents to the DMV office in person — there is no online option for the initial permit.

The permit is valid for one year from the date you receive it. During that time, you must follow Virginia's Graduated Licensing System rules, which restrict when and how you can drive. If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you will need to renew it at the DMV.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old and a Virginia resident to get a learner's permit.
  • Bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security number to the DMV office.
  • You will take a written test on road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; the test has 35 questions and you must answer at least 28 correctly.
  • The permit costs $20 and is valid for one year; you can renew it once without retaking the test if your permit expires before you pass the road test.
  • Once you have the permit, Virginia law requires you to have a licensed adult in the car with you at all times while driving.

Documents You Must Bring to the DMV

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. You need proof of identity, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security number. The DMV will not accept documents by mail; you must appear in person.

For proof of identity, bring your birth certificate (original or certified copy), U.S. passport, or passport card. If you were born outside the United States, bring your Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card. A school ID or report card is not enough on its own.

For proof of Virginia residency, bring a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and current Virginia address. A cell phone bill or credit card statement does not count as proof of residency.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, tell the DMV staff when you arrive.

The Written Knowledge Test

The test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It has 35 questions, all multiple choice. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass — that is 80 percent. The test is given on a computer at the DMV office.

You can study using the Virginia DMV's free online manual, which covers everything on the test. The manual is available on the Virginia DMV website. Many people also use third-party study apps and practice tests, though the official manual is the most direct source.

If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day at no extra charge. If you fail again, you must wait one day before trying a third time. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but each attempt after the first two costs $5.

Cost and How Long the Permit Lasts

A Virginia learner's permit costs $20. You pay this fee when you pass the test and receive the permit at the DMV office. The fee is non-refundable if you fail the test.

The permit is valid for one year from the date you receive it. If you have not passed your road test by the time the permit expires, you can renew it once without retaking the written test. The renewal costs $20. If you need to renew a second time, you must retake the written test.

Driving Rules While You Hold a Learner's Permit

Virginia's Graduated Licensing System sets strict rules for permit holders. A licensed adult who is at least 21 years old must be in the front seat with you at all times while you drive. This person must have a valid driver's license. You cannot drive alone, even for a short distance.

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. while you hold a permit. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency. Violating these rules can result in a traffic ticket and may delay when you can take your road test.

You must follow all other traffic laws that explore to licensed drivers. Speeding, running red lights, and reckless driving are enforced the same way for permit holders as for licensed drivers.

When You Can Take Your Road Test

You must hold a valid learner's permit for at least 60 days before you can take the road test. You also must be at least 16 years old. This means if you get your permit at 15 years and 9 months, you will be may be able to access for the road test around 16 years and 2 months old.

You schedule the road test through the Virginia DMV website or by calling the DMV. The test costs $35. You must bring your permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will use for the test. The vehicle must be registered and inspected, and the supervising adult must be present during the test.

Renewing Your Permit Before It Expires

If your permit is about to expire and you have not yet taken your road test, you can renew it in person at any Virginia DMV office. Bring your current permit and pay the $20 renewal fee. You do not need to retake the written test for your first renewal.

If you lose your permit before it expires, you can get a replacement at the DMV for $5. Bring your ID and proof of residency. If your permit is damaged but still readable, the DMV may issue a replacement at no charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Homeschooled students are treated the same as public or private school students. You must still be at least 15 years and 9 months old and meet all other requirements. Bring the same documents to the DMV office.

What happens if I fail the written test three times?

You can retake the test as many times as you need. The first two attempts are free. Each attempt after that costs $5. There is no limit on how many times you can try, but you must pass before you can get your permit.

Can someone else pick up my permit for me if I cannot go to the DMV?

No. You must appear in person to take the written test and receive your permit. Virginia DMV does not allow anyone else to take the test or pick up the permit on your behalf.

Do I need a permit if I am taking a driver's education course?

Yes. A driver's education course does not replace the learner's permit. You still need to pass the written test and get the permit before you can drive. Some courses may help you study for the test, but you must complete the DMV process.

What if I move out of Virginia while I hold a permit?

Your Virginia permit is no longer valid once you move to another state. You will need to get a learner's permit in your new state. If you move back to Virginia before your permit expires, you can use your original Virginia permit if you still have it.