Learner’s Permit
At least age 15 & 6 monthsRequirements
Parent/Guardian consent under 18.
Vision & knowledge tests.
RestrictionsLicensed driver alert & able to assist seated next to student. Must be 21 or older, or 18 or older if legal guardian, brother, sister, half-brother, half-sister, step-brother or step-sister.
- May not drive between midnight & 4 a.m.
Operator’s License
At least 16 & 3 monthsRequirements
Under 18
Driver education certificate signed by parent/guardian & a valid learner's permit held minimum 9 months allow you to drive without supervision. You will receive notice when to appear in court with parent/guardian for licensing ceremony to receive your permanent driver's license.
Parent/guardian certify minimum 40 hours driving practice, 10 after sunset.
Under 19Approved driver education course. Driver Ed in a Box is an approved driver education course for those families who home school according to Virginia laws.
- Hold Learner’s Permit minimum 9 months.
If you have not previously held a driver's license, proof of approved driver education course, or, held Virginia learner's permit minimum 30 days.
RestrictionsAge 16
No more than 1 passenger under age 18. No restriction on family members.
Age 17No more than 3 passengers under age 18. No restriction on family members.
Under 18May not driver between midnight & 4 a.m., EXCEPT:
- In case of an emergency
- Traveling to & from work or a school-sponsored event
- Accompanied by parent or other adult acting in place of parent
- Responding to emergency call as volunteer firefighter or rescue squad personnel