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Virginia · Permit test

VA driver’s license renewal

You can renew up to one year before your license expires, and DMV sends a reminder by mail, text and email 90 days ahead. VA driver’s license renewal alternates: if you renewed in person last time, you can usually renew online or by mail this time, and the time after that you go to a customer service center.

  • 1 yearHow early you can renew
  • 90 daysReminder sent before your license expires
  • 8 yearsHow long a renewed license lasts
  • 15 daysFor the new card to arrive
Renew onlineFree practice test

Updated October 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

Three ways to renew

WayWhat to know
OnlineIf you’re eligible, log in and pay. DMV reuses your current photo
By mailSign and date the renewal reminder and mail it with a check or money order to P.O. Box 26506, Richmond, VA 23260‑6506. No cash or card numbers
In personAny customer service center or DMV Connect. You pass a vision screening and get a new photo

DMV’s example: an original license from 2017 can be renewed online or by mail in 2025, in person in 2033, then online or by mail again in 2041.

Who can’t do a VA driver’s license renewal online or by mail?

DMV lists more than 20 reasons. Among them:

  • You renewed online or by mail last time.
  • You’re over 75.
  • Your license expired more than 12 months ago, or doesn’t expire within the next 12 months.
  • You failed DMV’s vision screening, or want the vision restriction removed after laser surgery.
  • You need a new photo, or a name change or correction.
  • You must prove legal presence, your license is suspended or revoked, or you owe DMV money.
  • You’re under medical review, or hold a school bus (S) endorsement.
Virginia DMV: Ineligibility to renew online or by mail ↗

Cost and how long it lasts

Renewal costs the same as a new license, $32 for a standard one. A renewed license lasts eight years and expires on your birthday, or five years if you’re 75 or older.

How to get a Virginia driver’s license →

Running late, or away from Virginia

If 15 days or fewer are left when you renew online, print the receipt at the end. With your current license, it lets you drive for up to 30 days more.

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you take the vision screening, the two-part knowledge exam and the road skills test again. Military, diplomatic and civilian staff stationed outside the U.S. can get an extension of up to six years instead of renewing.

How the Virginia DMV permit test is scored →

Adding REAL ID when you renew

Online renewals can’t add REAL ID. Start the application online, then visit a customer service center with your documents.

Virginia ID cards and REAL ID →
Sources: Virginia DMV and 2 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.

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