Last verified: 23/09/2026
Virginia at a glance
This guide explains Driver's License requirements in Virginia, including eligibility, documents, application steps, testing, fees and renewal.
Eligibility & Age Rules
<p>Before January 1, 2027, a first-time applicant age 18 or older must hold a learner permit for at least 60 days or complete an approved driver-education program while holding the permit. Applicants under 18 must complete approved driver education, hold the permit at least 9 months and document 45 hours of supervised driving, including 15 after sunset.</p>
Costs, timing and validity
Learner permit: 15 years 6 months. A driver's license can be issued at 16 years 3 months after the applicable driver-education and learner-permit requirements. New first-time applicants ages 18β20 will have additional training requirements beginning January 1, 2027.
Standard driver's license: $32 for 8 years. A REAL ID adds a one-time $10 fee. A learner permit is $3 plus the annual driver-license cost.
The renewal fee is the same as the licensing fee: $32 for a standard 8-year license. A REAL ID renewal adds the applicable $10 fee if the credential is being upgraded.
A standard Virginia license is valid for 8 years and expires on the holder's birthday. It is valid for 5 years if the holder is age 75 or older or is required to register as a sex offender.
Documents and information to prepare
Use the official checklist linked on this page as the final authority. The items below describe the information this state commonly expects for this credential.
Applicants need one proof of identity, one proof of legal presence, two proofs of Virginia residency, and proof of Social Security number when one has been issued. Name-change documents are required when names differ.
How to apply
Complete driver training when required, submit the application and original documents at a DMV customer service center, pass the required tests, and pay the license fee.
REAL ID applicants must provide the additional documents required by DMV.
Testing, Training & Restrictions
<p>First-time applicants complete the required vision screening, knowledge exam and road skills test. A learner permit applicant must pass the knowledge and vision tests. If a license has been expired for more than one year, Virginia requires the vision screening, two-part knowledge exam and road skills test again.</p>
Renewal and ongoing requirements
<p>Eligible drivers can renew online, by mail or in person. In-person renewal includes a vision screening and new photograph. A renewed license is normally valid for 8 years, or 5 years for drivers age 75 or older and certain other applicants.</p>
Processing time
Virginia's credential vendor mails the permanent license after issuance. DMV materials state that licenses are usually delivered within 7β10 business days after completing the road skills test.