Virginia Permit Practice Test (2026)
Reviewed by the DriveCar editorial team. Last updated .
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (Virginia DMV) handles driver licensing. Virginia uses a graduated licensing program for drivers under 18, so most new drivers start with a learner's permit at 15 years 6 months. The DMV publishes the official Virginia Driver's Manual (DMV39) and runs all knowledge exams at DMV customer service centers.
Sourced from the official Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (Virginia DMV) Virginia driver manual.
Virginia permit test at a glance
Sources: Virginia DMV Driver's Manual Virginia Driver's Manual PDF (DMV39) Virginia DMV Apply for a Learner's Permit Virginia DMV Exams & Study Materials
How to pass the Virginia permit test
Read the Virginia Driver's Manual cover to cover. Pay close attention to road signs because part one of the exam is 10 sign questions and you must get all 10 correct. Part two is 25 general questions and you need 80% to pass. Take practice tests until you score 90% or higher. Get a full night of sleep before test day.
Retake policy
If you fail the knowledge exam, you must wait 15 days before retaking it. After three failed attempts, you must complete the classroom segment of a Virginia driver education course and submit proof to the DMV before testing again.
Find a DMV office near you in Virginia
Each city page lists offices, hours, and addresses. Confirm appointments through the official Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (Virginia DMV).
Virginia driver-test resources
Compare nearby states
DMV rules vary state-by-state. If you also drive in or near Virginia, these neighbors' tests are worth a look.
Virginia DMV FAQ
What is the minimum age for a Virginia learner's permit?
You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to apply for a Virginia learner's permit.
How many questions are on the Virginia DMV knowledge test?
The exam has two parts. Part one is 10 road sign questions and you must answer all 10 correctly. Part two is 25 general knowledge questions and you must score 80% or better.
How much does a Virginia learner's permit cost?
The learner's permit costs $3 per year. A standard 8-year driver's license costs $32.
What happens if I fail the Virginia permit test?
You must wait 15 days to retake the test. If you fail three times, you must complete the classroom segment of a Virginia driver education course before testing again.
Where is the official Virginia Driver's Manual?
The DMV posts it at dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/exams/manual. The PDF is at dmv.virginia.gov/sites/default/files/forms/dmv39.pdf.