The Virginia permit test is the DMV knowledge exam. It is stricter than most states' tests in one way: you must get every road sign question right. Here is how it works and how to prepare.
What is on the test
- Part one: 10 road sign questions. You must answer all 10 correctly before you can continue.
- Part two: 30 general knowledge questions. You need 24 correct (80%).
- You take it on a computer at a DMV customer service centre, or in the classroom at a participating high school.
- The free Virginia mock tests on PassDriveTest follow the same two parts and pass marks, each scored on its own.
If you fail
- Under 18: by law you must wait a full 15 days before retaking the exam.
- 18 and over: you can retake sooner, but a small fee applies if you retake within 15 days.
- After three failed attempts, you must complete and pass the classroom part of driver education at an approved school before a fourth try.
A study plan that works
- Master the signs first. With no room for error in part one, learn every sign's shape, colour and meaning on the Virginia road signs tab until you get them all right every time.
- Read the Virginia Driver's Manual (free on the DMV website) for part two.
- Take full mock tests and read the explanation for every wrong answer.
- Try DMV's own sample knowledge exam online before test day.
- Aim for 10 out of 10 signs and 27 or more out of 30 on several different mock tests.
Teen permit rules
- You can get a learner's permit from 15 years and 6 months.
- Drive only with a licensed driver aged 21 or older beside you, or one aged 18 or older who is your parent, legal guardian or sibling.
- Under 18, hold the permit at least 9 months, log 45 hours of supervised driving (15 after sunset) and complete approved driver education before your license.
- From 1 January 2027, drivers aged 18 to 20 must also hold a permit for 90 days before their license.
Take a free Virginia mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.