Virginia DMV Approved
How to Get Your Virginia Driver’s License as a Teen
The licensing process has several steps — but don’t worry. We’ll walk you through every one and provide everything you need along the way.
Enroll in Driver’s Ed & Get Your Learner’s Permit (Age 15½+)
Start by enrolling in this online course. You can get your learner’s permit before or after enrolling — but we recommend completing at least Module 1 first. It covers everything on the DMV knowledge test and will help you pass on your first try.
When you’re ready, visit your local Virginia DMV Customer Service Center to get your permit:
- Pass the vision test
- Pass the knowledge and road signs tests
- Bring the required identification documents
- Have a parent or guardian sign your application if you’re under 18
Complete Your 30-Hour Online Driver Education Course
Complete all required lessons, activities, and quizzes through our Virginia DMV-approved online driver education program.
Complete the Parent/Teen Driver Education Component
Most Virginia teens under 18 are required to complete a 90-minute Parent/Teen Driver Education Program. In most areas of Virginia, this program can be completed online.
Schedule and Pass Your Final Exam
After completing the 30-hour online course, schedule an appointment to take your final exam at our local driving school office. On the day of your exam, be sure to bring:
- Your learner’s permit
- Any required course completion documentation
- Any additional documents requested when scheduling your appointment
Complete 45 Hours of Supervised Driving Practice
While holding your learner’s permit, you’ll need to complete:
- 45 total hours of supervised driving practice
- At least 15 hours of driving after sunset
Complete Behind-the-Wheel Driver Training
Virginia requires teen drivers to complete professional behind-the-wheel instruction. This training typically includes:
- 7 driving sessions
- 7 observation sessions
- A final road skills evaluation
Hold Your Learner’s Permit for at Least 9 Months
Virginia requires teen drivers to hold their learner’s permit for a minimum of 9 months before becoming eligible for a driver’s license.
Receive Your Virginia Driver’s License
After completing all requirements — including:
- Holding your permit for at least 9 months
- Completing the 30-hour driver education course
- Passing the final exam
- Completing behind-the-wheel training
- Completing 45 hours of supervised practice driving
Congratulations! — your official Virginia Driver’s License will be issued.
Virginia Adult Waiver Program
Get Your License Faster with the Adult Waiver Program
Designed for adults 18+ who want to earn their driver’s license faster — bypassing the standard 60-day permit holding period and the DMV road skills test by completing training through a certified driving school.
Obtain a Virginia Learner’s Permit
Visit the DMV and:
- Pass the vision test
- Pass the knowledge and road signs tests
- Bring the required identification documents
Complete a Virginia-Approved Driver Education Course
Before qualifying for the Adult Waiver Program, you’ll need to complete a Virginia-approved driver education course. This can be completed through:
- A 30-hour online driver education course, or
- An approved classroom-based driver education program
Enroll in the Adult Waiver Program
The Adult Waiver Program is designed for adults who are ready to learn, improve, and demonstrate safe driving skills under the guidance of a certified instructor. To participate, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid Virginia learner’s permit
- Have completed driver education
Complete Your Behind-the-Wheel Training
Virginia’s Adult Waiver Program includes:
- 7 driving sessions
- 7 observation sessions
- Professional instruction and evaluation by a certified driving instructor
These lessons are designed to help you build confidence, improve your driving skills, and prepare for your final evaluation.
Pass the Final Road Skills Evaluation
During your final behind-the-wheel session, a certified instructor will evaluate your driving skills and determine whether you have demonstrated the knowledge and ability required to operate a vehicle safely.
Receive Your Adult Waiver Certificate
After successfully completing all training requirements and passing the final evaluation, you’ll receive your Adult Waiver Certificate.
Your License Is on Its Way
Once you complete all program requirements, your completion is reported directly to the Virginia DMV. Your Adult Waiver Certificate acts as a temporary license while you wait, and your permanent driver’s license will be mailed to you within approximately 20 days — no DMV visit required.
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