Minimum Age for a Driver’s License in Virginia: Complete Guide

_{September 6, 2025 by JoyAnswer.org, Category : Education}

How old do you have to be to get drivers license in Virginia? Learn the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Virginia. This guide explains the graduated licensing process, eligibility criteria, and tips for new drivers to successfully navigate driver education and testing requirements.

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How old do you have to be to get drivers license in Virginia?

In Virginia, the minimum age requirements for obtaining a driver's license are structured to promote safe and responsible driving among young drivers. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you understand the process:

🚗 Learner’s Permit

Minimum Age: 15 years and 6 months
Requirements:
- Pass a two-part knowledge exam
- Provide proof of identity, legal presence, Virginia residency, and Social Security number (if issued)
- If under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the application or provide written consent
Driving Restrictions:
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old, or 18 years or older if they are your legal guardian or sibling
- May not drive between midnight and 4 a.m.
- May not carry more than one passenger under age 21, unless accompanied by a licensed parent or adult acting in place of a parent

🛣️ Driver’s License

Minimum Age: 16 years and 3 months
Requirements:
- Hold a Virginia learner’s permit for at least 9 months
- Complete a state-approved driver education program
- Provide written consent from a parent or legal guardian if under 18
- Pass a road skills test
Additional Notes:
- If under 18, you may be required to attend a court licensing ceremony with a parent or guardian to receive your license

📄 Driver Education Requirements

Under 18:
- Complete a driver education program that includes 36 classroom periods and 14 behind-the-wheel periods
- Complete 45 hours of supervised driving, including at least 15 hours after sunset
- Complete a 90-minute parent/teen component
18 and Older:
- Complete a driver education program or hold a learner’s permit for at least 60 days before taking the road skills test

⚠️ Teen Driving Restrictions

Curfew: Drivers under 18 may not operate a vehicle between midnight and 4 a.m., except when traveling to/from work or in an emergency
Passenger Limits:
- May carry only one passenger under age 21, unless accompanied by a licensed parent or adult acting in place of a parent
- After holding the license for one year, may carry up to three passengers under age 21 under certain conditions

📌 Important Notes

New Residents: Must obtain a Virginia driver's license within 60 days of moving to the state
Military Personnel: Active-duty members stationed in Virginia may drive with a valid driver's license issued by their home state or country
License Validity: A Virginia driver's license is typically valid for eight years and expires on your birthday

For more detailed information and to begin the application process, visit the Virginia DMV website: Virginia DMV Driver's License Information

1. How old do you have to be to get a driver’s license in Virginia?

In Virginia, to be eligible for a driver's license, you must be at least 16 years and 3 months old. You must also have held a learner's permit for a minimum of nine months and successfully completed a state-approved driver education program.

2. What are the age requirements for a learner’s permit in VA?

You can apply for a learner's permit in Virginia once you are 15 years and 6 months old. To get your permit, you must pass a vision screening, a two-part knowledge exam, and a signs test. You will also need to provide proper identification and proof of residency.

3. What tests are required to obtain a driver’s license?

To get your driver's license, you must pass a road skills test, also known as the driving test. However, if you are under 18 and complete a state-approved driver education program, the in-car instructor will administer the road skills test, and you will not have to take one at the DMV. Regardless of your age, you must also pass a vision screening.

Are there restrictions for new drivers in Virginia?

Yes, Virginia has a graduated driver's license (GDL) program for drivers under 18 with several restrictions. These include:

Curfew: You cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m. with a few exceptions, such as for emergencies, traveling to or from work, or school-sponsored activities.
Passenger Restrictions: For the first year after getting your license, you are limited to one non-family passenger under the age of 21. After that, you may have up to three non-family passengers under 21. This restriction is lifted once you turn 18.
Cell Phone Use: It is illegal for anyone under 18 to use a cell phone or any other wireless communication device, even with a hands-free device, while driving.

How can teens prepare for the driving test effectively?

To prepare effectively for your driving test, it's crucial to get as much supervised driving practice as possible. Here are some key tips:

Study the manual. Thoroughly review the Virginia Driver's Manual. It contains all the traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices you need to know.
Practice with a purpose. Don't just drive around. Practice specific maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, and backing up. Drive on different types of roads and in various weather conditions.
Know your vehicle. Be familiar with the car you'll be using for the test. Make sure all lights, signals, and other safety equipment are working properly.
Simulate the test. Ask a parent or guardian to give you a mock driving test. This can help you identify areas for improvement and reduce test-day anxiety.
Stay calm and focused. On the day of your test, arrive early, have all your required documents, and get a good night's sleep.