How to Get Your Driver's License in Virginia
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Virginia. Virginia uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 18.
GDL Stages in Virginia
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Complete driver education course
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older or a parent/guardian with a license
Provisional License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 9 months
- Complete 45 hours supervised driving including 15 at night
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between midnight and 4 a.m.
- No more than 1 passenger under 21 for first year; up to 3 after first year
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Turn 18
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between midnight and 4 a.m. during the provisional period.
- For the first year, only 1 passenger under 21 is allowed. After one year, up to 3 passengers under 21 are permitted.
How restrictions lift: Passenger limits increase after the first year. All restrictions are fully lifted at age 18.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. At 18, all provisional restrictions are lifted. Adults who have never held a license must still complete a driver education course if under 19.
Virginia-Specific Information
Virginia requires driver education for all first-time drivers under 19, including adults age 18. The state also requires 15 hours of nighttime practice, which is 5 hours more than the typical 10-hour standard used in most states.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 18 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Virginia.
Virginia uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Provisional License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between midnight and 4 a.m. during the provisional period.
- For the first year, only 1 passenger under 21 is allowed. After one year, up to 3 passengers under 21 are permitted.
Adults age 18 and older in Virginia can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. At 18, all provisional restrictions are lifted. Adults who have never held a license must still complete a driver education course if under 19.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Virginia learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Virginia.
Virginia drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website for the most current information.