Virginia Permit Test FAQ
Plain-English answers about the Virginia permit test, from the Virginia Driver's Manual. Always check the official guide for the current rules.
The test
How many questions are on the Virginia permit test?
The Virginia knowledge test has 40 questions, and you need 34 right (85%) to pass. It has 2 parts, and each must be passed: traffic signs (10 of 10), general knowledge (24 of 30). Our full practice exam uses the same size and pass mark. Always confirm the current test with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
How does the Virginia knowledge exam work?
It's taken on a computer in two parts. First, 10 traffic sign questions: you must answer all 10 correctly. Then a multiple-choice part on laws and safe driving, where you need at least 80 percent. (Virginia Driver's Manual, p. 3)
What happens if I fail the knowledge exam?
You can test only once per business day, and if you're under 18 you must wait a full 15 days. After three fails, you must finish driver education classroom training (or, in some cases, an approved 8-hour course based on the manual) before trying again. (Virginia Driver's Manual, p. 3)
What vision do I need for an unrestricted license?
At least 20/40 in one or both eyes and at least 110 degrees of side-to-side vision. With 20/70 and 70 degrees you may get a license limited to daylight driving. (Virginia Driver's Manual, p. 4)
Can I get help or use my phone during the exam?
No. You can't get or give help, try to get the questions in advance, or use a cell phone while testing. The exam is offered in many languages, in audio and in ASL, so translators aren't allowed for those languages. (Virginia Driver's Manual, p. 3)
Getting your license
Who can supervise me on a learner's permit?
A licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front passenger seat, alert and able to help. A legal guardian, brother, sister, half- or step-sibling aged 18 to 20 may also supervise. (Virginia Driver's Manual, p. 31)
How long must I hold the permit before the road test?
If you're 18 or older, hold the permit for 60 days before your first road skills test, or complete an approved driver education course instead. Under 18, the road test is part of driver education. (Virginia Driver's Manual, p. 4)
Rules for new drivers
What are the alcohol limits for drivers under 21?
Virginia has zero tolerance. Under 21, driving with a BAC of at least .02 but under .08 can bring a one-year license suspension plus a $500 minimum fine or 50 hours of community service; at .08 or more you face adult DUI penalties. (Virginia Driver's Manual, p. 30–31)
What happens if a teen gets a traffic ticket?
A demerit-point conviction (or a seat belt or child restraint violation) for an offense committed under 18 means a required driver improvement clinic. A second conviction brings a 90-day suspension and a third a one-year revocation (or until 18, if longer). (Virginia Driver's Manual, p. 29)
Page numbers are the ones printed on the handbook pages; tap one to open the official PDF at that page. A PDF viewer counts the cover too, so its page numbers run 2 higher.