Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VirginiaDMV) is responsible for issuing driving school permits, drivers licenses, vehicle registrations and titles, identification services, license plates and more. The Virginia DMV website offers many online services, but few seem to cater to people looking for a driver's license. You cannot book an appointment online but you can find the location of the nearest office to apply to.
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New Virginia state driver's license
Who needs a license?
Anyone who has reached the age of 16 and has completed 3 months can apply for a driver's license for a motor vehicle. A driver's license can be used for many activities such as job opportunities, everyday transportation, and even for fun.
Which license is right for you?
Each type of driving requires you to obtain the appropriate driver's license, which will teach you how to drive any vehicle safely and provide you with a legal driver's license. Such licenses can be purchased, for exampleDMVincluding:
- A regular driving license is required to drive a private vehicle on the road. A learner permit is required for all new drivers first – international or extended driving licenses are also available for this type.
- Drivers can receiveCDLDriver's license - entitles you to drive a commercial vehicle for work purposes. However, operators can only obtain a driver's license orCDL.
- The bus driver's license is a special form especially for those who want to make a living by driving a bus and transporting passengers.
- Drivers can enjoy motorcycling by acquiring a motorcycle license. In order to obtain this license, you must first obtain approval.
What are the requirements to get a license?
Each type of license requires specific documentation to issue a license. A list of approved licenses can be found online atDMVWebsite in an interactive menu, online brochure or driver's manual. All documents must be originals. The documents you need for the application depend on your age at the time of application:
- For minors under the age of 19, you must provide the officer with ID, citizenship, and proof that you are a legal resident of the state. If you are a US citizen, you will also need a social security card or recognized equivalent that shows a valid number.
- In addition, minors under the age of 19 must provide the following proof of completion of an accredited driving school course, a valid learner permit with a validity of at least 9 months and proof signed by a parent or guardian that the new driver has met the driving practice requirements.
- The parent or legal guardian must sign the logbook and provide a valid driver's license number to confirm completion of the training. The application must also be signed by the parents.
- Adults 19 and older are required to present two forms of identification: one form of citizenship and one form of proof of legal residency in the state. If you have a CPR number, you must also provide proof of a valid CPR card or approved listing document with your valid number.
- Adult new drivers must have held a valid driver's license for at least 60 days before applying for a driver's license.
- All new drivers of all ages must take an eye test, a two-part written test and, in some cases, a driving test. All underage drivers under the age of 18 must complete a written driving test.
- If you apply for license fees, you will have to pay a fee depending on when the new license expires.
- If you have not been issued a social security card, you must prove legal presence with an approved document.
What tests do I need to take to get a license?
- You will undergo an eye screening to test your correct vision expectations.
- The two-part written exam will be held byDMVIn the office, the first part traffic signs must be passed with 100% and the second part general knowledge with at least 80%.
- The driving test is carried out for all novice drivers as the last part of the test and is also carried out on siteDMV. An authorized examiner will test your ability on the road with the vehicle you provide.
Participation in a course for drivers
New drivers under the age of 19 must complete an accredited driving course as part of their license. Proof is required for the driving test. If an adult driver over the age of 19 fails any part of the test more times than the maximum times, they must also complete driver training in order to continue.
Preparation for the written exam
Make sure you prepare well for the written exam, as the state has high requirements for passing. In the first section on general road signs, all ten questions must be answered correctly to proceed, and in the second section on general knowledge, at least 80% correct answers are required.
Use country-specific cheat sheets and focus your research on signs and signals. Take as many practice tests as you can with these characters to make sure you're ready to answer the questions correctly. The cheat sheets and practice tests also contain all the general information you need to pass the second part of the tests. Information can also be found in the driver's manual and articleswww.dmvcheatsheets.comonline.
What to bring with you on the day of the exam
On the day of the exam, you will need one or more documents, depending on your age, including:
- Identity cards – two for drivers over 19 and one for minors.
- Proof of citizenship – a document.
- Proof of Residence – a document.
- Social Security or proof of a valid number if you are a US citizen, or proof of legal presence.
- Minors must bring proof of driver education and a full driver's license signed by a parent or supervisor.
- All new drivers must bring a completed and signed application, minors must have a parent's signature and a valid learner's permit.
Driving test costs
The cost of testing is included in the initial license fee paid at the time of testing. There is a standard fee of $4 per year, and most licenses are valid for eight years. However, minors can pay less if they turn 20 before the end of the eight-year period.
Pass a written exam
The written exam is divided into two parts and is taken separately. The first part of the test contains ten traffic sign questions that must be answered correctly in order to proceed to the next part. The second part of the test consists of questions about your knowledge of traffic rules, safety and other general driving information. Candidates must achieve 80% in this part to pass and must wait 15 days before retaking the exam if they fail. Drivers of any age who fail more than three times must attend the driver refresher course, including adults over the age of 19. It's important to study to make sure you don't have to repeat it as it will cost you valuable time and there is an additional fee of $2 per person for adults Try again if it fails.
Study all available materials to pass the exam, including the driver's manual. In addition, cheat sheets and practice tests: www.dmvcheatsheets.com/exams/virginia-drivers-license-scribed-test/products/virginia-dmv-cheat-sheet-online-practice-test-bundle, available at Dmvcheatsheets.com, contain everything You must guarantee a positive result on the first try. Pay special attention to the list of traffic signs in the cheat sheets and practice tests so that you can pass the first part of the tests 100%.
driving test
A driving test is required for all novice drivers who have never held a driving license and must be carried out in their own vehicle. The vehicle you use must pass a security check prior to the test and have a security sticker placed in a prominent place for the examiner to see. In addition, proof of insurance and registration must be presented during the examination. One of two documents must be presented during the examination:
- Proof of a completed recognized driving course etc
- A completed driving checklist signed by an authorized supervisor driver over the age of 21. The checklist contains all the diving maneuvers discussed in the test and the heading confirms that you have practiced all aspects.
- Minors under the age of 19 must take driving lessons. This exam can be taken at the end of the course, saving time and money.
The roadworthiness test takes placeDMVThe registration takes place as part of the application process during business hours by an examiner who is authorized to examine. If you fail the test, you must wait two days to take it again. More than three will pass the test and you must complete or repeat a driving school course before you can retake the test. To pass this test and ensure you fully understand all traffic rules, practice as many exercises as possible with your instructor.
Virginia driver's license renewal
Who needs to renew the license?
Anyone who holds a valid driver's license must renew it after it expires in order to continue to legally use the driver's license on the road. Your renewal date depends on your age. The standard license must be renewed every 8 years. If you are under the age of 18, your driver's license expires on your 20th birthday.
h3. How do I renew my Virginia license?
The license must be renewed in person every 8 years and can be renewed by other means on every second application. This means that you can switch between personal and other options at each additional renewal date. Other methods include renewal by mail, touch-tone phone, and online. The renewal notice will inform you of the available methods.
Which exams do I have to pass in order to be able to extend my stay?
- If you are under the age of 20 at the time of renewal or have committed at least one traffic violation, you must repeat the second part of the written exam for renewal.
- Any further renewal must be done in person and you must retake your eye test during this time.
How much does it cost to renew my license?
The renewal cost depends on the renewal period of the license. The fee is $4 per year and the standard license expires every eight years. However, for certain age groups, such as those under 20, your driver's license expires on your 21st birthday, so charges may vary. If you choose to renew in person in a year when other options are available, you will be charged an additional $5 in person application fee.
Steps to renewing your license
If your driver's license has expired by even one day at the time of in-person renewal, you must provide proof of lawful attendance at the time of renewal. Personal extensions include:
- Visit yourDMVReport to your office and submit the application along with some form of identification, usually in the form of a valid driver’s license.
- Take a new photo and do an eye test.
- If necessary, complete the second part of the knowledge test and pass with a score of 80%
- Pay the necessary renewal fees.
Obtaining a study permit in Virginia
Who needs a study permit?
All new drivers of all ages require a learner permit as part of the licensing process and new drivers can start the process at 16 years and 3 months.
Requirements for a study permit
- Minors under the age of 19 must bring proof of residency, proof of identity, social security card or document confirming a valid number, and proof of citizenship.
- Adults 19 and older must bring two forms of ID, proof of residency, proof of social security number, and proof of citizenship.
- Minors also need the consent of their parents to obtain a study permit in the form of a signature on the application for study permit.
- Drivers must pass a vision exam and a two-part knowledge test to continue.
All new drivers must also pay a student permit/driver's license fee, which is $3 per student. year for a student permit plus $4 per year year for a license. Payment can be made by check/money order, cash, e-check, credit card, or personal check.
Driving on a VA student permit
New drivers may only ride with a licensed driver over the age of 21 in the passenger seat at all times unless the supervising driver is a sibling or legal guardian. At this time they must be 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license. Motorists must respect the prescribed time for minors, which in practice is 45 minutes on the road and 15 minutes at night. If you are over 19 and not taking driver training, you must have held your license for at least 60 days.
Be sure to download and use the Driver Checklist. It contains all the items that you will test during the test drive portion. Also read articles on safe driving and tips on passing your driver's test.
Price for study permit
A study permit/license fee of $3 plus an annual license fee of $4 per year is payable. The amount depends on how many years remain until the age of 20.
Steps to Obtaining a Study Permit in Virginia
To obtain a study permitwww.dmvcheatsheets.comYou must apply in person at the “DMV Office” and follow these steps:
- Fill out the application and sign it. Minors must also have a parent's signature.
- Submit your application with the required proof of identity, citizenship, and residency, and provide a valid social security number.
- Create a screen and photograph it.
- Take the ten question mark test and answer all questions correctly. Then complete the general part with a score of 80% to pass.
- Pay the required $3 fees plus the $4 annual license fee.
FAQs
How many questions are on the DMV written test in Virginia? ›
| How many questions | 35 |
|---|---|
| How many correct answers to pass | 30 |
| Passing score | 86% |
| Minimum age to apply for Learner's Permit | 15 ½ |
You must correctly answer all 10 traffic sign questions in part one of the Virginia DMV test before you can take part two. Part two tests your general knowledge with multiple choice questions. You must answer at least 80% of these questions correctly to pass part two.
How many questions can you miss on VA learners permit test? ›Virginia. The Virginia learner permit test consists of two parts: road signs and general knowledge. You have to answer all 10 questions on the road signs section correctly before you move on to the general knowledge section. To pass the general knowledge section, you must score 80 percent or higher.
What is the Virginia permit test like? ›The two-part knowledge exam is given on a computer and tests your knowledge of traffic signs, motor vehicle laws, and safe driving. Exam questions are taken from information in this manual. You must correctly answer all ten traffic sign questions in part one of the exam before you can take part two of the exam.
How many times can you take the written driving test in Virginia? ›Retaking the Knowledge Exam
Regardless of age, if you fail the exam three times, you must complete the classroom portion of a Virginia-approved Driver Training School program and present the Driver Education Certificate at a customer service center.
Passing the Virginia permit test is easy—if you're prepared. Roughly 50% fail their permit test, which means you can't float through it relying on common sense. Unfortunately, most teens find that they're not that well off with the driving manual as their one and only study guide.
What happens if I fail my permit test 3 times in Virginia? ›If you failed the learner's permit test or knowledge test at the DMV three times, you're required to complete an 8-hour Virginia Driver's Manual / Re-Examination class before you're able to retake your test again.
Can you take the Virginia permit test online? ›Using web-based technology, students can access the DMV knowledge test in a proctored setting at their schools, instead of having a parent take them to a DMV office. Students immediately receive their test results.
What state has the hardest permit test? ›— Washington state has one of the toughest driving tests in the country. According to the state Department of Licensing, passing rates for the knowledge test are around 46% at DOL offices. A study by personal-injury law firm Siegfried & Jensen suggests Washington is the most difficult state to get a license.
Which state has the easiest driving test? ›South Dakota has the easiest driving test of any state, followed by Ohio and New York, the study found. A look at the states with the hardest and easiest driving tests to pass.
How long is the DMV permit test in VA? ›
There are two different sections on the Learners Permit Test in Virginia. The first section is 10 questions long and covers road signs. The second section is 25 multiple choice questions long and covers a variety of questions that are all based on general knowledge from the Virginia Driver Handbook.
What do I need to bring for my permit test in VA? ›One proof of identity. One proof of legal presence. Two proofs of Virginia residency. Proof of your Social Security number (SSN), if you have been issued one.
What tests must you take to get your permit in Virginia? ›- Complete the driver's license application.
- Have proof of identity and proof of Virginia residency.
- Provide their social security number.
- Pass the two part knowledge test.
- Pass the vision test.
- Pay the $3 permit fee and the $4 license fee.
Yes, you can test drive cars with a permit.
What are two proofs of Virginia residency? ›Proving Your Virginia Residency
You must visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) customer service center and present documentation to prove your Virginia residency such as a utility bill, lease agreement, payroll check stub or original bank statement.
VA DMV Permit Exam at a Glance
You must be a minimum of 15.5 years old to apply and take your DMV written test. The permit test at the VA DMV costs $3 and then $4 per year for your drivers license. There is also an additional surcharge of $10 for the issuance of your State ID card.
To pass the DMV written test in order to get your instruction permit, you need to achieve an 83% passing score by answering 38 questions correctly out of the 46 questions on the test if you are under 18.
How long is a Virginia learner's permit good for? ›After you have held your permit for a period of nine months, turned age 16 and 3 months and have completed driver education, you will receive a notice telling you when to appear in court for a licensing ceremony during which you will receive your permanent driver's license.
When merging onto a freeway it is usually best to do what? ›Merge into a space large enough for your vehicle to safely join the lane. Use your mirrors and turn signals. Turn your head quickly to look over your shoulder before changing lanes or merging into traffic. Make sure you can stop safely by leaving three seconds of space between you and the vehicle in front of you.
How long do you have to wait to retake a driving test in Virginia? ›I failed my Road Test. When can I take it again? You must wait at least two days before retaking it. You have up to three attempt with the DMV.
How many hours needed in Virginia for driving training? ›
Requirements to Get a License
The out-of-state program must provide proof you have completed at least 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of in-car instruction.
Virginia's Curfew For Minors
Richmond's curfew law states that “Children under the age of 18 are not permitted on public streets, alleys, parks, playgrounds, public buildings or grounds, places of amusement, entertainment, refreshment or vacant lots between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.” unless they are with an adult.
In Virginia, Behind the Wheel classes are required if you want to get a license before turning 18. (And even for some people over the age of 18, but we'll get to that later.)
How much does a driver's license cost in Virginia? ›How much does it cost to get a Virginia driver's license? The license fee is anywhere between $20 and $32.
When can I get my license in VA? ›You must be at least 16 years and three months old to apply for a driver's license.
When two vehicles arrive at a four way stop at the same time? ›Always yield to the right
When two vehicles arrive at a 4-way stop at the same time side-by-side, the vehicle furthest to the right has the right of way. If three vehicles arrive at the same time, the car furthest left should continue to yield until both of the other cars to the right of them have passed.
In fact, a study by Siegfried & Jensen shows Washington is the hardest state in the nation to get a driver's license.
What state has the hardest driving? ›KOMO News recently reported on a study by Siegfried and Jensen, which says that Washington state is the hardest state in the nation to pass the driving test.
What state has the lowest age to get a permit? ›In the U.S., you can typically apply for your full driver's license between the ages of 16 and 18. What states can you drive at 14? You cannot get a full, legal driver's license at the age of 14 in any state. You can get a learner's permit at 14 in Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
What is the slowest driving state? ›At the opposite end of the speed spectrum, Alaska remains the “slowest” state, with an average top speed of just 55 mph.
Where is the hardest place to get a license? ›
- China100.
- Turkey100.
- Bulgaria97.
- Montenegro70.
- South Africa68.
- Sweden65.
- United Kingdom50.
- Belgium50.
“Open Course” Road Test in Virginia
No difficult maneuvers (like parallel parking) are required. During the test, the applicant may make up to 10 errors from among a driving skills checklist.
Restrictions on the Number of Passengers
If you are under age 18, you may carry only one passenger under age 21, unless accompanied by a licensed parent, or other adult acting in place of a parent, in the front passenger seat.
Use your credit card to make the $32.00 FEE for the 8 year license. The fee is the same as for new license. You will need a Visa, American Express, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Card.
What is a Virginia driver privilege card? ›A driver privilege card is a driver's license for non-US citizens. It gives Virginia residents who are not citizens the opportunity to be a legal driver, without requiring proof of legal presence or U.S. citizenship. Who is Eligible. How To Get a Driver Privilege Card.
How many times can you take the permit test in Virginia? ›Retaking the Knowledge Exam
Regardless of age, if you fail the exam three times, you must complete the classroom portion of a Virginia-approved Driver Training School program and present the Driver Education Certificate at a customer service center.
Virginia's DMV permit test is made up of 35 multiple choice questions, and you must get 30 correct to pass. We highly recommend reaching the 2019 Virginia Driver's Manual before taking the test, as it covers all of the material the exam would ask about!
How many questions can you get wrong on the permit test in VA? ›You must correctly answer all ten traffic sign questions in part one of the exam before you can take part two of the exam. Part two tests your general knowledge with multiple choice questions. You must answer at least 80 percent of these questions correctly to pass part two.
Is the permit test easy in Virginia? ›Passing the Virginia permit test is easy—if you're prepared. Roughly 50% fail their permit test, which means you can't float through it relying on common sense. Unfortunately, most teens find that they're not that well off with the driving manual as their one and only study guide.
Can I take my permit test online in Virginia? ›Using web-based technology, students can access the DMV knowledge test in a proctored setting at their schools, instead of having a parent take them to a DMV office. Students immediately receive their test results.
Do you still have to parallel park for driving test in Virginia? ›
In Virginia, the examiners are not as strict as their neighbors, Maryland and DC. Also unlike Maryland, in Virginia there is no track at DMVs, the test is done all out on the road in the neighborhood near the DMV. You will be happy to hear there is no parallel parking on the test.
What happens if you fail the learners permit test 3 times in Virginia? ›If you failed the learner's permit test or knowledge test at the DMV three times, you're required to complete an 8-hour Virginia Driver's Manual / Re-Examination class before you're able to retake your test again.
How many passengers can a 17 year old have in Virginia? ›Restrictions on the Number of Passengers
If you are under age 18, you may carry only one passenger under age 21, unless accompanied by a licensed parent, or other adult acting in place of a parent, in the front passenger seat.
Big rigs have several blind spots due to their size and height. Areas where trucks can't see around the rig and trailer are called “No-Zones”. Drivers who share the roadway with trucks must be aware of these “No-Zones” to stay safe.
Do you have to log your driving hours in VA? ›Answer: Students need to have a valid Virginia Learner's Permit, and need to have completed the classroom portion of Driver's Education. The student must also have driven 45 hours with a parent or adult over 21, and should have a log to reflect this.