Virginia teen driver guide
Virginia teen learner's permit
Virginia teens can apply for a learner's permit at 15 years and 6 months. Applicants under 18 need parent or guardian consent and must complete state-approved driver education before licensing.
- 15½minimum permit age
- Under 18driver education required
- Parent consentrequired unless emancipated
Complete state-approved driver education
Virginia's under-18 path requires approved driver education. The in-car program includes supervised instruction and the final road-skills examination.
Meet the current holding-period rule
Virginia's current teen holding periods and licensing rules are age- and date-sensitive. Use DMV's published teen and eligibility pages, especially if your licensing date is near January 1, 2027.
Practice under permit supervision
A learner's permit authorizes practice only under Virginia's supervision rules until the driver qualifies for the next licensing step.
Related Road to Permit guides
Official sources
- Virginia DMV — Apply for a Learner's Permit
- Virginia DMV — Knowledge Exam
- Virginia DMV — Driver's Manual
- Virginia DMV — Driver Education
- Virginia DMV — Road Skills Tests
- Virginia DMV — Plan Your Visit
- Virginia DMV — Customer Service Centers
- Virginia DMV — Fee Chart
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.