Virginia's DMV written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices

Virginia's written test is a 50-question multiple-choice exam that you take at a DMV office on a computer. You need to score at least 38 correct answers (76 percent) to pass. The test draws from Virginia's Driver's Manual, which covers traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, and what to do in emergencies. You can take the test in English or Spanish.

The test is required before you can get a learner's permit or a regular driver's license. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most DMV offices, though some locations may require you to wait a few hours or return another day. There is no fee to take the written test itself — you only pay when you explore for the permit or license.

Key Takeaways

  • Virginia's written test has 50 questions and you must answer at least 38 correctly to pass.
  • The test is computer-based and available in English and Spanish at all DMV offices.
  • You can retake the test the same day if you fail, though timing depends on the office.
  • The Virginia Driver's Manual is the only study material you need — it covers everything on the test.
  • You must pass the written test before scheduling a road test or getting a learner's permit.

What the test covers and where to study

The Virginia Driver's Manual is available free on the Virginia DMV website as a PDF read. It is also available in print at any DMV office. The manual covers traffic signs and what they mean, right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts, speed limits and when they change, parking rules, what to do if you are pulled over, how to handle skids and hydroplaning, and rules about seat belts and child safety seats.

The test also includes questions about Virginia-specific laws, such as the state's open container law, distracted driving penalties, and the point system for traffic violations. About half the questions are about signs and road markings, and the other half are about driving laws and safe practices. There are no questions about vehicle maintenance or how to operate specific controls — those are covered on the road test instead.

Virginia DMV also offers a free online practice test on its website. The practice test has 50 questions in the same format as the real test. Taking it multiple times can help you identify which topics you need to study more.

Who has to take the written test

Anyone explore for a learner's permit or a driver's license in Virginia must pass the written test first. This includes people who are getting their first license, people who move to Virginia from another state, and people whose licenses have expired and cannot be renewed by mail.

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state and you move to Virginia, you may be able to transfer it without taking the written test — but you will still need to pass a vision screening and provide proof of residency. Contact your local DMV office to confirm what documents you need.

How to schedule and what to bring

You do not need to schedule an appointment to take the written test at most Virginia DMV offices — you can walk in during business hours. However, some offices in busy areas may require you to book a time slot online through the Virginia DMV website. Check your local office's page to see if appointments are required.

Bring a valid form of identification with your current address. Acceptable forms include a passport, a state ID card, a military ID, or a school ID with a current utility bill or lease. You will also need to provide your Social Security number. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign consent forms before you take the test.

Arrive at least 15 minutes early. The DMV staff will verify your identity, take your photo, and walk you through the test on a computer terminal. The test itself usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Passing, failing, and retaking the test

You will see your score when ready after you finish. If you pass, the DMV will print a receipt showing that you passed the written test. You can then schedule a road test or explore for a learner's permit, depending on which license type you are pursuing.

If you fail, you can retake the test at many offices the same day, though you may have to wait a few hours or come back later. Some offices have a policy of allowing one retake per day; others allow multiple retakes. Call your local DMV office to ask about their specific retake policy before you arrive.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test. Each time you take it, you pay no fee — you only pay when you submit your process for a permit or license. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the manual more carefully.

Differences between the learner's permit test and the license test

Virginia has one written test that applies to both learner's permits and driver's licenses. You take the same 50-question test regardless of which document you are pursuing. The difference is what happens after you pass: if you are under 18, you get a learner's permit and must drive with a licensed adult for a set period before you can take the road test. If you are 18 or older, you can move directly to scheduling a road test.

The road test itself is separate from the written test and covers your ability to operate the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. You must pass the written test before you can schedule the road test.

Test accommodations for people with disabilities

Virginia DMV offers accommodations for people with disabilities. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can request an interpreter or a written version of any verbal instructions. If you have a learning disability or cognitive condition, you can request extra time to complete the test. If you have a visual impairment, the test can be read aloud to you.

Contact your local DMV office at least one week before you plan to take the test to request accommodations. You may need to provide documentation of your disability from a doctor or specialist. The DMV will work with you to arrange the accommodation that best fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. The test is proctored and you cannot bring any materials into the testing area. You cannot use your phone, notes, the Driver's Manual, or any other reference. The DMV staff will ask you to put your phone away before you begin.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at most offices, though you may need to wait a few hours. There is no fee to retake it. You can take it as many times as you need until you pass. Each time you fail, you learn which topics to study more before your next attempt.

Is the test the same if I am getting a learner's permit versus a full license?

Yes, the written test is the same for both. You take one 50-question test and pass or fail it. After you pass, the path differs depending on your age and what you are explore for, but the test itself is identical.

Can I take the test in Spanish?

Yes. Virginia offers the written test in Spanish at all DMV offices. Tell the DMV staff when you arrive that you want to take the test in Spanish, and they will set it up for you on the computer.

How long is the written test valid after I pass it?

Your passing score is valid for one year. You must explore for your learner's permit or license within that year, or you will need to retake the written test. If you pass the test but do not explore for a permit or license within 12 months, you will have to take the test again.