Test at a Glance
Virginia Knowledge Test Quick Facts
Questions
35
Passing Score
86%
Test Fee
$3 (permit) + $5 total including photo
Time Limit
No time limit
Min. Age
15½
Difficulty
Hard
Online Test?
No — in person only
Based On
2026 Virginia Driver's Manual
The Virginia DMV knowledge test has 35 multiple-choice questions. You need 86% (31 of 35) to pass. Study the official Virginia driver's manual and practice with PermitPop.
What's on the Test
Topics on the Virginia Permit Test
Road Signs & Signals
~25%Virginia traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings.
Traffic Laws & Right-of-Way
~30%Virginia traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and school bus regulations.
Safe Driving Practices
~25%Following distances, lane changes, highway driving, and Virginia-specific conditions.
Impaired Driving & Penalties
~10%Virginia DUI/DWI laws, zero-tolerance for under 21, and penalties.
Special Situations
~10%Emergency vehicles, railroad crossings, work zones, and Virginia-specific situations.
How to Get Your Permit
Step-by-Step: Virginia Learner's Permit in 2026
Meet the age requirement
You must be at least 15½ years old to apply for a learner's permit in Virginia.
Gather your documents
Bring proof of identity, Social Security card, and parent/guardian consent if under 18.
Complete any required courses
Check with the DMV for driver's ed requirements in Virginia.
Pass the knowledge test
35 questions, 86% to pass (31 correct). Fee: $3 (permit) + $5 total including photo.
Pass the vision screening
Standard vision screening at the DMV office.
Get your permit
Once you pass, your learner's permit allows supervised driving with a licensed adult.
Virginia GDL (Graduated Driver License) Rules
Holding Period
9 months
Supervised Hours
45 hours (15 at night)
Nighttime Restriction
Midnight - 4 AM
Passenger Restriction
1 passenger under 21 initially
Cell Phone Rule
No cell phone use under 18
Tips & Common Mistakes
How to Pass the Virginia Permit Test on Your First Try
Study the Virginia driver's manual
The official manual is the primary source for all test questions.
Focus on road signs
About 25% of the test covers signs and signals. Know all regulatory, warning, and guide signs.
Know your state-specific rules
Every state has unique laws. Study Virginia's specific traffic rules and penalties.
Practice with realistic questions
PermitPop's Virginia-specific questions match the real test format.
Don't rush
There's no time limit. Read each question carefully and watch for tricky wording.
Most Commonly Missed Topics in Virginia
- 1Right-of-way rules at intersections
- 2Speed limits in school and work zones
- 3Virginia-specific traffic laws and penalties
FAQ
Virginia Permit Test FAQ
How many questions are on the Virginia permit test?+
How much does the Virginia permit test cost?+
How old do you have to be to get a permit in Virginia?+
Can I take the Virginia permit test online?+
Is the Virginia permit test hard?+
PermitPop is not affiliated with the Virginia DMV. Test information is based on the 2026 Virginia Driver's Manual and is updated regularly. Always verify current requirements with your state's official DMV website.