Virginia Learner’s Permit 2026: Age, Fee and Driving Rules

How do you get a Virginia learner’s permit?

Be at least 15 years and 6 months old.
Fill in the Application for a Virginia Driver’s License (DL 1P). If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian signs it, unless a court order shows you’re an emancipated minor.
Bring original documents: one proof of identity, one of legal presence, two proofs of Virginia residency and your Social Security number if you have one.
Pay the $3 permit fee plus the yearly cost of a driver’s license.
Pass the vision screening and the two-part knowledge exam at the same visit.
Wait for the permit in the mail. The post office won’t forward it, so report a move right away.

Proof of residency in Virginia →How the Virginia DMV permit test is scored →

Who can sit beside you

A licensed driver at least 21 years old, in the front passenger seat. They can be 18 to 20 if they’re your legal guardian, or a brother, sister, half-sibling or stepsibling. They must be alert and able to help you.

Rules for every permit holder

No driving between midnight and 4 a.m., at any age.
No more than one passenger under 21, not counting members of your family or household. That’s the rule in Virginia law (§ 46.2‑335). DMV’s teen restrictions page says one passenger under 18, so keep to the law’s limit.

If you’re under 18

No cell phone use while driving, hand-held or not, unless it’s an emergency and you’re lawfully parked or stopped.

How long the permit lasts

A standard permit expires on your birthday and is valid for up to eight years, or five years if you’re 75 or older. A REAL ID permit for someone with a temporary authorized stay lasts for that stay, or one year if it has no end date.

To drive without a supervisor, you need a full license or a signed driver training certificate.

How to get a Virginia driver’s license →The Virginia 45-hour driving log →

Sources: Virginia DMV · Code of Virginia and 4 more. Checked October 2026.