Driving news: Virginia
Virginia changes the first-license route for ages 18 to 20
Beginning January 1, 2027, a Virginia applicant aged 18 to 20 who has never held a driver's license from any U.S. state, U.S. territory or other country must complete approved driver education and hold the learner's permit for at least 90 days. From 21, today's choice stays.
- Jan. 1, 2027start date
- Ages 18 to 20driver education and 90 days
- 21 and olderthe choice stays
Until December 31, 2026
A first-time applicant aged 18 or older has two routes: approved driver education, which waives the 60-day hold and the DMV road test, or at least 60 days with the learner's permit, the behind-the-wheel checklist and the DMV road test.
From January 1, 2027: ages 18 to 20
Both steps are required: at least 90 days with the learner's permit before the license, and state-approved driver education completed while you hold that permit.
From January 1, 2027: age 21 and older
The choice stays: at least 60 days with the permit, or approved driver education while holding it.
The knowledge exam stays the same
It has two parts: all 10 road-sign questions must be right, and at least 24 of the 30 general-knowledge questions.
What to do now
If you are 18 to 20 and expect your first license around the turn of the year, check which rules apply on the day you get it: Virginia uses the rules in effect when the license is issued. The DMV's FAQ on the change has the current details.
Related Road to Permit guides
Official sources
- Virginia DMV — Revised 2027 Permit Rules FAQ
- Virginia DMV — Driver Education
- Virginia DMV — Knowledge Exam
Independent study resource. Road to Permit is not affiliated with or endorsed by any DMV, DPS, FLHSMV or other government agency. Official state sources control if information changes.