Virginia Driver Handbook
Read the official manual from VA DMV directly. Download the PDF for offline study or read it online.
Virginia Driver Handbook
Official Resource
Mirrored from the copy VA DMV publishes. Copyright remains with VA DMV; we host it only to speed up mobile reading.
Testing at a Glance for Virginia
Once you've read the handbook, here's what to expect at the VA DMV knowledge test.
- Part 1 — road signs — 10 questions, 10 correct to pass. All 10 must be correct before part two is offered.
- Part 2 — general knowledge — 30 questions, 24 correct to pass. 80% of part two.
$3
Documents You'll Need When You Take the Virginia Test
Completed Application for a Virginia Driver's License (DL 1P), proof of identity, proof of legal presence, two proofs of Virginia residency, proof of Social Security number, and parental consent if under 18.
Virginia-Specific Rules Covered in This Handbook
Rules unique to Virginia that VA DMV weights heavily in the knowledge test — you'll see these in the handbook chapters.
- gavel Under-18 passenger limit: only one passenger under 21 for first year of licensure
- gavel Under-18 curfew: no driving midnight to 4 a.m. (with narrow exceptions)
- gavel Hands-free law: no handheld cell phone use while driving
- gavel HOV/Express Lanes on I-66 and I-395 require E-ZPass Flex set to HOV mode
- gavel Learner's permit must be held at least 60 days before road skills test (if under 18)
After You Pass: Virginia License Renewal
8 years
$32
Up to 1 year before expiration; DMV sends reminders 90 days prior
More Virginia Driving Resources
Virginia Handbook FAQ
Is this the official Virginia driver handbook?
Yes. The copy above is the same document VA DMV publishes on its official website — we mirror it for faster mobile loading. Copyright stays with VA DMV.
What documents does VA DMV require when I show up for the test?
Completed Application for a Virginia Driver's License (DL 1P), proof of identity, proof of legal presence, two proofs of Virginia residency, proof of Social Security number, and parental consent if under 18.
How is the Virginia knowledge test administered after I finish reading?
Sat in two parts. Part one is 10 road sign questions and all 10 must be right before part two is offered; part two is 30 general knowledge questions needing 24 correct.
How current is this Virginia handbook version?
VA DMV reissues the handbook when state law changes. The edition and page count above are read from the file we host; check the agency site if you need certainty that you have the newest one.
Where do I actually take the Virginia test after reading the handbook?
At any VA DMV location. Use our /dmv-near-me/va finder for the nearest office with address, hours, and phone.
Is the Virginia driver handbook free to download?
Yes. VA DMV publishes it free as a PDF. If a website is charging to "download" the handbook, it's a scam — the state's official version is always free.
Can I read the Virginia handbook on my phone?
Yes. The PDF opens in the reader above and works on mobile — handy for study sessions away from a desk.
Do you have practice tests based on this Virginia handbook?
Yes. Every question in our Virginia driver practice tests is sourced from this handbook. Start at /test/va/car for the full state-specific quiz set.