Getting a Virginia learner's permit
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
Apply once you are at least 15 years and 6 months old.
Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Fill out the DMV application with your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number and home address.
Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026If you are of school age, show good academic standing or bring a parent's written authorization on the DMV form.
Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pass the knowledge and vision tests; if you are under 18 and fail, wait 15 days to retest.
Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pay the $3 permit fee.
Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Drive only with a licensed adult 21+, a parent/guardian or an 18+ sibling beside you, and never from midnight to 4 a.m.
Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Minimum age for a learner's permit
- 15 years and 6 months.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Learner's permit fee
- $3 (no fee for homeless youth).Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit validity
- A car learner's permit stays valid until you get your license or stop qualifying for the permit.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit tests
- A written or automated knowledge test and a vision test.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Who must ride with a permit holder
- A licensed driver 21 or older, a parent or legal guardian, or a brother or sister (including half- and step-siblings) 18 or older, seated beside you.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit passenger limit
- No more than one passenger under 21, except family/household members or during approved driver training.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit night limit
- No driving on a learner's permit between midnight and 4 a.m.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Retake after failing the knowledge test (under 18)
- Wait at least 15 days.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- After three failed knowledge tests
- You must complete a classroom driver instruction course (or, if 18+ or already done with classroom, a Virginia Driver's Manual course) before a fourth try.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Application details and proofs
- The application lists your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number and address; in person you may need proof of identity, residency and Social Security number.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- How long to hold the permit (under 18)
- At least 9 months, or until you turn 18 if that comes first.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Retake after failing the road test
- Wait two days. After three failures you must complete in-car instruction at a licensed driving school first.Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Virginia guide
Official Virginia links
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