New Virginia licensing rules will affect first-time drivers ages 18 to 20

Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, first-time Virginia driver's license applicants ages 18 through 20 will have to complete an approved driver education program and hold a learner's permit for at least 90 days.

The change applies to applicants who have never held a driver's license in Virginia, another state, a U.S. territory or another country. Time already accumulated on a learner's permit obtained before Jan. 1 will count, but applicants still must satisfy the new education and 90-day requirements before licensing.

Rules for other age groups remain unchanged but are different. Applicants younger than 18 must complete driver education and hold a learner's permit for nine months. Applicants age 21 or older must hold a learner’s permit for at least 60 days or complete an approved driver education course while holding the permit.

Under the new process, approved driving schools will transmit completion information directly to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. DMV will mail the license after all requirements are met. Applicants should make sure DMV has a current mailing address because U.S. Postal Service forwarding does not apply to driver's licenses. The change stems from legislation enacted by the General Assembly as House Bill 1224.

For more information, visit dmv.virginia.gov.