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Virginia DMV Practice Test

Virginia's learner's permit test is a unique two-part knowledge exam administered by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. The test format includes a specialized component requiring perfect performance on road signs before advancing to general driving knowledge questions. Applicants must be at least 15.5 years old to apply for a learner's permit. The test is computer-based and available at DMV customer service centers and participating high schools throughout the state. Virginia offers language accessibility, with the knowledge exam available in multiple languages. Understanding Virginia's two-part exam structure and retesting policies will help you prepare effectively for this important licensing milestone.

Available Virginia practice tests

What's on the Virginia written test

When taking the Virginia written knowledge test, you'll take a computer-based, two-part exam. Part one requires you to correctly identify all 10 road signs displayed on the computer screen—you must answer all 10 correctly before proceeding to part two. Once you complete part one successfully, you'll move to part two, which consists of 25 multiple-choice questions covering Virginia traffic laws, vehicle operation, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 20 of these 25 questions correctly to pass. The exam is taken at a DMV customer service center or participating high school classroom. If you fail the overall exam, retesting requirements depend on your age: if you're under 18, you must wait 15 days before retaking; if you're 18 or older, you can retake the exam the following day.

Car / standard license

Virginia's written knowledge test has a unique two-part format. Part one requires you to correctly answer all 10 road sign questions (100% required) before you can proceed to part two. Part two consists of 25 general driving knowledge questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly (80% passing score). The learner's permit fee is $3 plus the yearly driver's license cost; the road skills test fee is $2. Applicants must be at least 15 years and 6 months old. If you are under 18 and fail, you must wait 15 days before retaking. If 18 or older, you can retake without waiting. The test is available in multiple languages.

Motorcycle endorsement

Virginia motorcyclists must pass a motorcycle knowledge exam covering motorcycle operation, safety, and hazard awareness. The motorcycle knowledge exam is available in multiple languages, similar to the standard driving knowledge test. Retake policies follow Virginia's standard waiting period rules.

Commercial driver license (CDL)

Virginia Commercial Driver License (CDL) applicants must pass knowledge tests for their class and selected endorsements. The CDL knowledge exam is available in multiple languages with the exception of the HAZMAT endorsement exam, which is only offered in English. CDL applicants must meet federal and state requirements, and successful exam passage leads to CDL issuance upon skills test completion.

Study tips for the Virginia written test

  • Study the Virginia Driver's Manual (DMV39) thoroughly, focusing on all traffic signs and their meanings for part one
  • Master every road sign included in the Virginia manual, as you must answer all 10 correctly in part one
  • Use the DMV's online practice exams at dmv.virginia.gov to familiarize yourself with the computer-based test format
  • Review Virginia-specific traffic laws and driving regulations that may differ from other states
  • Study the sections on right-of-way rules, parking laws, and traffic control devices carefully
  • Pay attention to penalties for traffic violations and DUI laws in Virginia
  • If failing the test, plan to use the 15-day waiting period (if under 18) to thoroughly review weak areas

More Virginia resources

Official agency: Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Virginia permit test?
The Virginia written knowledge test consists of 35 total questions: 10 road sign questions in part one and 25 general driving knowledge questions in part two.
What's the passing score for the Virginia written test?
For Virginia, you must correctly answer all 10 road sign questions in part one (100% required), and then answer at least 20 out of 25 general knowledge questions in part two (80% passing score).
How much does the Virginia written knowledge test cost?
The learner's permit application fee is $3, plus the cost of a yearly driver's license. The road skills test fee is an additional $2. Check the Virginia DMV website for current license fee amounts.
How old do I have to be to take the Virginia permit test?
You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to apply for a learner's permit and take the written knowledge test in Virginia.
Can I take the Virginia DMV test in Spanish or other languages?
Yes, the Virginia written knowledge test is available in multiple languages, with the exception of the CDL HAZMAT exam, which is only offered in English. Visit dmv.virginia.gov for a complete list of available test languages.
How many times can I retake the Virginia written test?
You can retake the Virginia written test if you don't pass. If you're under 18, you must wait 15 days before retaking. If you're 18 or older, you can retake the test the next day. If you fail three times, you must complete a Virginia-approved driver training school program.
Is the Virginia permit test online or in person?
The Virginia written knowledge test is administered in person on computers at DMV customer service centers or in classrooms at participating high schools. You must schedule an appointment to take the test.
What documents do I need to bring to the Virginia DMV?
You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security Number, proof of Virginia residency, and if you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present and sign your application. Check the Virginia DMV website for a complete list of acceptable documents.

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