How to prepare for DMV Exam (Virginia)

Here are the steps to obtain a Virginia driver’s license, along with relevant online links for resources and scheduling. Please note that driving laws and regulations may vary by state and are subject to change. Always refer to the official DMV website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Requirements and Gather Documentation

Age & Education Requirements

Learner's Permit: Available at age 15 and 6 months.
Driver's License (Under 18): Available at age 16 and 3 months after holding a permit for 9 months and completing a state-approved Driver Education Program.
Adult License (18+): Must hold a permit for 60 days OR show proof of completing a Driver's Ed course to waive the holding period.
Note: Drivers under 18 must document 45 hours of driving practice (15 at night).

Identification Requirements

Proof of Identity: Primary document (e.g., U.S. Birth Certificate, Passport).
Legal Presence: Proof that you are legally authorized to be in the U.S.
Social Security Number: SSN card or proof of number.
Proof of Residency: Two documents are required (e.g., deed, lease, utility bills).
REAL ID: Virginia offers REAL ID compliant licenses (required for domestic flights beginning May 7, 2025).

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Requirements and Gather Documentation

Step 2: Pre-Apply Online or Complete Form DL 1P

You can start your application online to save time or complete the Driver's License and Identification Card Application (Form DL 1P) before visiting the DMV.
VA DMV - Online Services (https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/)

Step 3: Pass the Two-Part Knowledge and Vision Tests

1. Knowledge Exam

Part 1 (Traffic Signs): You must correctly identify all 10 traffic signs (100% score required) to proceed.
Part 2 (General Knowledge): You must answer at least 80% of general traffic knowledge questions correctly.
Virginia Driver's Manual PDF (https://mydmvexam.com/va-virginia/manuals)
Practice Tests: (https://mydmvexam.com/va-virginia/)
Tests are taken at DMV customer service centers.

2. Vision Screening

You must have 20/40 vision or better in one or both eyes (with or without corrective lenses).

Step 3: Pass the Two-Part Knowledge and Vision Tests

Step 4: Get Your Learner's Permit

Once you pass the vision and two-part knowledge exams, you will pay the fee and receive your Learner's Permit. This allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult (21+, or 18+ if legal guardian/sibling).
VA DMV - Learner's Permit Info (https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/learners)

Step 5: Schedule and Take the Road Skills Test

Under 18: The road test is usually administered by your Driver Education School. If passed, they issue a Temporary Provisional Driver's License (TDL-180). You generally do not take the road test at the DMV.
Adults (18+): You must wait 60 days after getting your permit to take the road test at a DMV CSC, or you can waive the holding period by completing an adult driver education course.
Vehicle: If testing at the DMV, you must provide a vehicle with valid safety inspection, registration, and insurance.

Step 6: Pay Fees

Learner's Permit: $3 plus $4 per year of validity.
Driver's License: $4.00 per year (Typically $32 for a standard 8-year license).
REAL ID Surcharge: A one-time $10 fee added to the standard license cost.
Re-examination Fee: $2.00 if you fail the knowledge test and need to retake it.

Step 7: Receive Your License

At the DMV, you will receive a temporary paper license. Your permanent driver's license will be mailed to the address on file within 7–10 days.
Note for Drivers Under 18: You will receive a TDL-180 from your school. Your permanent hard plastic license is typically awarded at a Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court licensing ceremony.

These links should help guide you through the application and testing process. Each DPS webpage contains the latest requirements and resources to ensure you have everything needed to obtain your Virginia driver’s license.