When you can take the Virginia learner's permit test

The Virginia DMV offers the learner's permit written test during regular business hours at most DMV customer service centers. Most locations are open Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., though some offices have different schedules. You do not need an appointment — you can walk in during these hours, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

A few DMV offices stay open until 6 p.m. on certain weekdays, and some open on Saturday mornings. Check the hours for your specific location on the Virginia DMV website before you go, because hours differ by office and can change seasonally.

You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to take the test. There is no upper age limit. Bring your Social Security number, proof of Virginia residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and a valid photo ID or birth certificate.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Virginia DMV offices are open 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday, with some locations offering extended or Saturday hours.
  • You can walk in without an appointment, but arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits.
  • The written test itself takes about 20 to 30 minutes once you are called, but plan for total time at the office including check-in.
  • You must bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and a valid photo ID or birth certificate to take the test.
  • If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day at most locations, though you may have to wait and pay the fee again.

How long the test takes at the DMV office

The written test itself — the questions you answer on the computer or paper — takes about 20 to 30 minutes. The test covers Virginia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need a score of at least 80 percent to pass.

Your total time at the DMV office is usually longer. Plan for 30 minutes to an hour from the time you arrive until you leave, depending on how busy the office is. Arriving early in the morning or on a Tuesday or Wednesday typically means a shorter wait than Friday afternoons.

If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day at most locations. You will pay the test fee again and wait your turn again, but you do not have to leave and come back another day.

Busiest and slowest times at Virginia DMV offices

Friday afternoons and the last hour before closing are the busiest times at most DMV offices. If you can take the test on a weekday morning — especially Tuesday through Thursday between 9 a.m. and noon — you will likely wait less time.

The first week of the month and the week before school starts are also busier than average, because many teenagers schedule their tests then. If you have flexibility, avoid these periods.

Some DMV offices publish wait times on their websites or through a phone line. Call your local office before you go to ask about current wait times, or check online if your office posts them.

What to expect when you arrive for the test

When you walk in, you will check in at the front desk and give your name and the reason for your visit. A staff member will verify your documents and take your photo for your learner's permit. You will then wait to be called to a testing station.

At the testing station, you will answer 35 multiple-choice questions on a computer or on paper, depending on the office. You have no time limit, though most people finish in 20 to 30 minutes. The test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, and safe driving in different conditions.

Once you finish, the test is scored when ready. If you pass, you will receive your learner's permit on the spot. If you do not pass, you can ask to retake it right away or schedule another attempt for a later date.

Retaking the test if you do not pass

If your score is below 80 percent, you do not pass. You can retake the test the same day at most Virginia DMV offices, though you will pay the test fee again. Some offices allow you to retake it when ready; others ask you to wait a short time and then come back to the testing station.

If you prefer to study more before trying again, you can leave and return on another day. There is no waiting period between attempts in Virginia — you can retake the test as soon as you are ready. However, each attempt costs the same fee.

The Virginia DMV provides a study guide online that covers all the topics on the test. Many people find it helpful to review this guide before their second attempt.

Finding your nearest DMV office and its hours

The Virginia DMV website has a location finder where you can enter your city or ZIP code and see all nearby offices, their hours, and services offered. Not every office administers the learner's permit test — some handle only renewals or other services — so check that your location offers written testing before you go.

You can also call the Virginia DMV customer service line at 1-866-DMV-VIRGINIA (1-866-368-8742) to ask about hours at a specific office or to find the nearest location that offers the learner's permit test.

Some offices are closed on certain holidays or for staff training. If you are planning to take the test on or near a holiday, call ahead to confirm the office will be open.

Preparing for test day

Bring all required documents the first time you go. If you forget something, you will not be able to take the test and will have to return another day. The documents you need are your Social Security number, proof of Virginia residency (such as a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and a valid photo ID or birth certificate.

Study the Virginia DMV learner's permit study guide before you arrive. It is free and available on the DMV website. The test questions come directly from this guide, so knowing the material will improve your chances of passing on your first try.

Arrive a few minutes early to allow time for check-in. Bring a pen if the office uses paper tests, though most now use computers. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to be there for at least 30 minutes to an hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment for the learner's permit test in Virginia?

No. Virginia DMV does not offer appointments for the written learner's permit test. You must walk in during regular business hours. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week usually means a shorter wait than afternoons or Fridays.

What if the DMV office is closed when I want to take the test?

Check the hours for your specific location on the Virginia DMV website, as hours vary by office. Some locations stay open until 6 p.m. or open on Saturday mornings. If your nearest office is closed, find another location nearby that is open during hours that work for you.

How many times can I retake the learner's permit test?

Virginia does not limit the number of times you can retake the written test. You can attempt it as many times as you need, though you pay the test fee each time. There is no waiting period between attempts.

What happens if I fail the test twice?

You can retake it again. There is no penalty for multiple failures in Virginia. Most people pass after studying the DMV study guide more carefully. Consider taking a practice test online or asking a parent or instructor to quiz you on the material before your next attempt.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card to the DMV?

You need to provide your Social Security number, but you do not need to bring the card itself. You can write it on the process form. Bring a photo ID or birth certificate instead, along with proof of Virginia residency.