Real ID requirements will be in place on October 1st, 2021. If you intend to get a REAL ID, you will likely need to visit a DMV in person.

Read More >

Important Notice About Real ID Implementation

Read More >

Frequently Asked Questions

We Are Here to Help - Search Our FAQs

Navigate

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to file a police report if my license was lost or stolen?
It is highly recommended that you file a police report in the event that you have a stolen drivers license or a lost drivers license. By alerting law enforcement of this incident, you reduce the chances of identity theft or fraud. After making a visit to your local police station, make sure to bring a copy of the report to a DMV Customer Service office.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

How can I obtain a copy of the driver manual?
You can easily review the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles manual on their website by clicking here. The Virginia Driver s Manual contains various sections, covering categories and topics such as the following:
  • Safe driving
  • Penalties
  • License types
  • Signals, signs and pavement markings
  • Testing
  • Seat belts, air bags and child safety seats

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

How can I renew my drivers license?
In Virginia, you can apply for drivers license renewal in person, online, by mail or over the phone. You should expect to receive a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires.

In PersonTo renew in person, you will need to visit a Virginia DMV Customer Service Center and present your driver s license, as well as proof of legal status in the United States. During your visit, you will be required to take a vision exam and a new picture.

OnlineVA drivers can renew drivers licenses online by visiting the VA DMVNow page and looking up your driver s license by entering the following information:

  • Driver s License Number or Social Security Number
  • Date of Birth

By Mail

You must submit a driver s license application along with payment to the address below:

Virginia Department of Motor VehiclesPO Box 26506Richmond, VA 23260-6506

By PhoneTo renew by phone, call 804-497-7100.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

How do I apply for a drivers license?
To apply for a drivers license in Virginia, you need to present documentation that proves your identity and state residency. These documents also vary, depending on your age.

If you are 19 or older, you must present the following:

  • Two proofs of identity
  • One proof of legal presence
  • One proof of Virginia residency
  • One proof of Social Security Number

If you are under the age of 19, you will only be required to present one proof of each aforementioned item. You can find out more about documents you need to turn in by visiting the VA DMV Document Guide for Driver s Licenses and ID Cards page.

You will also be required to complete a Driver s License and Identification Card Application DL1 form, pay select fees and pass various tests.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

How do I get a hardship license?
The state of Virginia may allow you to obtain a restricted license, depending on your particular case. If the individual was found convicted or not innocent of the violations below, then they may be granted a restricted license:
  • First offense for driving under the influence
  • Aggressive driving
  • Illegal possession of alcohol
  • Illegal consumption of alcohol
  • Drug violation

Whether or not you obtain a restricted license will be up to the court. You will first have to petition the court to get this type of license.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

How do I get a replacement license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?
If you are a military member currently outside of the state, you can request to replace DMV drivers license online when you visit the VA DMVNow page. You will need to create a MyDMV Account first, if you don t have one already. You can also visit the VA DMV Military Personnel page to find out all you need to know about your DMV-related needs while you are out of the state, including but not limited to driver services, vehicle services and online transactions.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I obtain a duplicate license?
The state of Virginia allows drivers to obtain a drivers license replacement either online or at a local Customer Service Center. In person, you will be required to present a filled out Driver s License Application, two forms of identification and one document showing proof of legal status in the country. On your visit, you will also be asked to take a new photograph.

In order to replace your drivers license online, visit the VA DMVNow page. Keep in mind that you need to meet a set of eligibility requirements to request a duplicate online.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I reinstate my suspended license?
If you are reinstating suspended drivers license, you will need to follow the directions noted on your compliance summary. This summary will contain information including the outstanding fees you must pay the DMV, the documentation you must provide, the dates of your suspension period and contact information to the courts and other pertinent parties. If you believe any information listed on your compliance summary is incorrect, contact the Virginia DMV.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

How do I renew my license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?
If you are a military member currently outside of Virginia, you can apply for a driver s license extension. Request an Out of State Driver s License packet by visiting this DMV page. After submitting the packet along with any required documents, you will receive an extension card in the mail for you to carry with your driver s license. After you have returned to Virginia, you will have 180 days to renew expired drivers license at a customer service center.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

How do I replace my license if I am a non-U.S. citizen?
When applying for a Virginia duplicate drivers license, you will be required to show proof of legal status in the country. These valid documents must contain both your full name and date of birth. Some acceptable documents include the following:
  • Unexpired foreign passport
  • Permanent Resident Card
  • Certificate of Naturalization
  • U.S. Certificate of Citizenship
  • Unexpired Refugee Travel Document

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I replace my license if I lost it out of state?
If you are currently outside of Virginia and need to replace driving license documentation, you can do so online. Visit the VA DMVNow page to get started. It is important to take note that you will need to create your own MyDMV account and meet a list of certain requirements. You can also sign up for email and phone reminders on this page.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

How does the DMV check my vision?
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles tests your vision by asking you to read out loud various numbers and/or letters that will be listed in a machine you have to look into. Both your general eyesight and peripheral vision will be tested. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, this notation will be on your driver s license. You will also be required to wear your glasses or contact lenses every time you operate a vehicle.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

How long will I have a suspended license for not taking a chemical test?
If a person refuses to take a chemical test in the state of Virginia, their first violation will be considered a civil offense, and you will face a one-year suspension period as a result. If you receive a first DUI offense, your license will be revoked for the period of one year, and you may also face fines, along with the requirement of an ignition interlock device if your BAC was .15 percent or greater.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

How soon can I renew my driver’s license?
You can renew license up to one year before its expiration date. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles as a friendly reminder. If you wish to receive an electronic renewal notice instead, visit the VA DMV Email, Phone and Text Reminders page to change your preferences.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

If I file a police report, will my replacement fee be waived?
To find out whether or not your VA drivers license copy fee will be waived upon applying for a duplicate license, contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. You can reach them directly by calling 804-497-7100 or you can ask them in person at a DMV Customer Service Office. Find a location near you by using our DMV locator. To call, take note of the hours of operation: Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m (EST).

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

Is there an age limit to renew your license?
As long as you are in good condition to drive, there is no age limit for renewing drivers licenses in Viriginia. However, all drivers who are 75 years or older must renew their driver s licenses every five years, instead of the standard eight.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

What address will my replacement license be mailed to?
Your VA drivers license replacement will be sent to the address that is currently on file with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. If you need to update your address with the DMV, you can do so online. You can also call them at 804-497-7100 or visit a Customer Service Center near you. If you prefer to update your information via mail, send an Address Change Request form to the following address:

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles PO Box 27412 Richmond, VA 23269

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

What are requirements for seniors to renew a driving license?
If you are a driver who is 75 or older, you are required to renew drivers license documentation in person prior to its expiration date. You will also be asked to take a vision screening test. If you prefer to hand in a report from your eye doctor, you may do so at a local DMV office. Upon receiving your renewed license, it will be valid for a period of five years.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

What are some violations that may constitute in a suspended license?
There are many reasons why your Virginia driver s license may be suspended in the state. Some of these include but are not limited to the ones listed below. If your license is suspended, you will be required to reinstate it after fulfilling all the necessary requirements.

Your license can be suspended due to:

  • Failure to pay child support
  • Failure to pay jail fees
  • Failure to pay court fines and costs
  • Failure to maintain car insurance
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol
  • Excessive points on your driving record

There are a number of other violations and offenses in which your Virginia drivers license may be suspended.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

What are the consequences of driving with a suspended license?
If you have a VA suspended drivers license, you will face severe consequences and high penalties. For example, you may need to complete jail time and have your VA drivers license suspended for an extended period of time as a result. To avoid any unpleasant situations and unwanted consequences, it is important to abide by the rules and regulations of the Virginia DMV.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

What are the fees for a duplicate drivers license?
The fee for a Virginia duplicate drivers license is $20. Be aware that fees may vary. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles accepts payment in the form of cash, check, money order or a major credit card, such as Discover, MasterCard, Visa or American Express.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

What are the reinstatement fees I will have to pay for a suspended license?
The fees to reinstate revoked drivers license depend on the offense and violation committed. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles now makes it easy for individuals to pay their reinstatement fee online through their website. Online credit cards or an e-check are accepted if you choose this method of payment.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

What are the suspensions eligible for a hardship license?
The court may deem you eligible to have restricted driving privileges in certain situations. For example, if you were convicted or found not innocent of the following violations, you may be able to petition for a restricted driving license:
  • Reckless driving
  • Drug violation
  • Aggressive driving
  • Illegal possession of alcohol
  • Illegal consumption of alcohol
  • First offense of driving under the influence

If the court authorizes the DMV to release a restricted driving license for you, your restricted driving privileges will be granted during the time of your conviction.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

What do I need to do to get my driver’s license if I fail the driving test?
Should you fail your road skills test upon your first try, you must wait at least two days before re-taking it. Be mindful that if you fail the test three times, you will need to fulfill a driver education program that consists of behind-the-wheel training, and is an official Virginia DMV-approved school. Once you have the Driver Education Certificate in hand, you will then be allowed to re-take the exam.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

What documents do I need to get my drivers license?
Depending on whether you are older or younger than 19, the documentation you will be required to present varies. For example, if you are 19 or older, you must present the following:
  • Two proofs of identity
  • One proof of legal presence
  • One proof of Virginia residency
  • One proof of Social Security Number

Individuals under 19 are only required to present one proof from each category of the aforementioned list.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

What documents do I need to present to renew my drivers license?
To renew licenses in person, drivers are required to show proof of legal presence in the country if the driver s license was issued before January 1, 2004. Acceptable documentation includes a Certificate of Naturalization, valid passport or a permanent resident card.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

What documents will I need to present to replace my drivers license?
When requesting a VA drivers license copy at a Customer Service Center, you will need to present the following:
  • Two forms of identification
  • One document that proves legal status

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

What languages is the written test available in?
Written drivers tests at the VA DMV are available in English, Spanish and American Sign Language. You may also request that it be translated into your native tongue if it is a language other than those two. To explore your options, contact the DMV directly.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

What penalties will I face if I do not renew my expired drivers license?
If you fail to renew drivers license credentials, you may face late fees and be required to retake the written exam and road skills test. Keep an eye out on the renewal notice you should receive in the mail prior to your license expiring. Make sure that your current address is on file with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, so your notice is not lost in the mail.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

What should I do if I have not received my renewed license?
If you have not received your VA drivers license renewal in the mail, then you contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles at your earliest convenience. You can speak to a customer service representative in person or by phone by calling 804-487-7100. Keep in mind that their operating hours are Monday through Saturday, and hours vary depending on the day.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

What tests will I need to take for my drivers license?
In order to get your standard VA driving license, you will need to pass a road skills test, in which you must operate your own vehicle. Said vehicle must be fully registered and have proper, functioning parts to use for the test. Should you fail the road skills test, you must wait two days before you are allowed to re-take it.

You are also required to have already passed a vision exam and a two-part knowledge exam.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

What type of noncommercial license will I need?
The state of Virginia offers noncommercial driver s licenses and licenses with a Class M motorcycle for those who wish to operate the latter.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

When can I reinstate my license after it has been suspended?
When you have a drivers license suspension, you will first need to fulfill all the reinstatement requirements before you can legally drive again. Reinstatement requirements will vary, depending on the offense you have committed. In order to find out what your requirements are, as they pertain to your individual circumstances, contact the Virginia DMV.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

When will I need to renew my license?
Drivers must renew driving license every eight years. When you choose to renew your license in person, bring your current driver s license, as well as payment for fees and proof of legal status in the United States, if necessary. You can pay your renewal fee either by debit card, money order, cash, check or with a credit card.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

When will I receive a replacement license after applying?
You should expect to receive your drivers license replacement within two weeks after submitting your application. If a sufficient amount of time has passed and you have yet to receive your new license, contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles at 804-497-7100 to inquire about its status.

When renewing your license, you will be issued a temporary one that you can use for up to 30 days.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Virginia Driver’s License or ID Card

Where can I check to see if my license is suspended?
If you have a Virginia suspended driving license, you will be made aware of this through your compliance summary. Your compliance summary contains all the information you need to know about your suspended license, such as the dates of your license suspension and the reinstatement requirements you need to complete.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Virginia

Where can I get a new drivers license?
In order to apply for Virginia drivers license credentials, visit any DMV office. Be prepared to take a road skills test with your vehicle and pay any required fees. For a list of fees, take a look at the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Fees Chart. You may also be asked to take a vision screening test and a two-part knowledge test.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Virginia

Will I be required to take a vision test for a drivers license renewal?
Yes, if you are renewing drivers licenses in person, you will be required to take and pass a vision screening test. During your visit, you will also need to take a new picture for your license. Should you have any questions before renewing your license at a VA DMV Customer Service Center, you can call them at 804-497-7100. You can also find a location near you by using our convenient DMV locator.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia

Will I get a drivers license renewal notice in the mail?
For your convenience, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles sends out a renewal application before your drivers license expires. You can also request to receive this renewal notice electronically instead. Make sure that your current address is on file in order to avoid any delay or confusion.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Virginia