Obtaining a Virginia Driver's License

A valid driver's license is needed for operating a motor vehicle. A driver's license is also a form of identification.

The state of Virginia does not officially recognize the International Driver's License, although it does recognize your home country's driver's license for a limited period of time (30 days). If you already have a valid driver's license from other states in the U.S. and are currently enrolled as a full-time student at an accredited university, you do not need to get a Virginia driver's license. (see Virginia Driver's Manual)

Applicants must be at least 16 years old and pass a three part exam designed to test your knowledge, vision and driving skills.

You may apply at any Division of Motor Vehicle (DMV) branch or at any DMV driver license station. The closest branch to Blacksburg is:

Montgomery County DMV
385 Arbor Drive
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Telephone: 540/381-7171 Hours: M-F; 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
and Saturdays 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

When applying, you must bring with you two positive proofs of identity such as your birth certificate, valid passport, transcript of school record or other official documents which state your full name and date of birth. You will also need to bring your social security card if you have one, school ID, your immigration documents, and 1 proof of residency including a typed envelope with your home address on it (not a window envelope.)

 

The license exam is given in three parts: knowledge of test, vision screening, and road test. Whether or not you have driving experience you will have to take all three parts of the exam.

1. Knowledge Test

You will be questioned about rules of the road, road signs and markings, Virginia State Laws and basic safe driving skills. It is a written test which you can best prepare by reading and studying carefully the Virginia Motor Vehicle Operator's Manual. This manual can be obtained from the Montgomery County DMV Office or at the Cranwell International Center.

2. Vision Screening

This test determines that you can see well enough to operate a motor vehicle safely. If you fail this test, you may be asked to see an eye doctor. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you must wear them when you take the vision test and when you drive.

3. Road Test

The road test is the most important part of the license exam. It tests your ability to drive safely. You must provide the type of vehicle you want to be licensed to operate. Bring the vehicle's registration card and make sure that every part of your vehicle (lights, brakes, seat belts, etc.) operates properly.

NOTE: Should you fail any of the tests, you will need to retake the exam on another day after more study and practice. You may not take the exam more than once on the same day, but you may take it as many times as necessary.

If you are a Virginia resident 19 years of age or older, you must hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days or show proof of completion of a state-approved driver education program. Upon successful completion of the vision test and knowledge test, you will be issued a Learner's or Instruction Permit. A learner's permit allows you to operate a motor vehicle only when a licensed driver at least 18 years old is seated beside you. After you have your learner's permit, practice starting, stopping and vehicle control in a parking lot or other wide open areas when there is little traffic. When you feel comfortable operating a motor vehicle you may complete your license exam by taking the road test after the 30 day period.

For internationals the driver's license will expire on the same date as their immigration form (I-20, DS-2019) expires if the person applies after December 31, 2003.