Driver's Ed

Teen Drivers – Steps to getting your license in Virginia (updated Spring 2025)

Posted on June 15, 2017 by Suey Nordberg

Getting a driver’s license is an amazing rite of passage.  Many teens are eager to begin, while others need a parent’s nudge to get started.   Below is an outline to guide you through the requirements of getting a license.  Please note that these steps are written for privately schooled students whose schools do not currently offer a Driver’s Ed program.  Different options are available for public school or homeschool students.

1. Follow the steps on the Department of Motor Vehicles website to obtain your permit. Of particular note:

   • You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old

   • You must show identification documents including

     • Social Security card (or proof of your social security number)

     • Birth certificate or passport

     • Proof of residency

   • You will be photographed!

     • If you wear glasses, be sure you have them with you

   • Pass a two-part exam

     • Practice resources are available online

     • Re-test after 15 days if you do not make it the first time

2. Practice driving with an approved driver (parent, family member 18 or older, or non-family member 21 or older).

   • 45 hours of practice time are needed (many families opt for more)

   • 15 hours of practice time must be after sunset

     • This is tougher in the summer – make a plan for how to get your evening hours

3. Complete a state-approved driver education program.

• An onsite class at an approved driver’s school (many local options)

  • Usually 2 weeks (5 nights each week, 2 to 3 hours per night)

    • Cannot miss a night

  • Great to do with a group of friends

  • Driving schools often discount their on-the-road program if you take their classroom portion on site

  • Expect to pay about $200

4. Students who live in Northern Virginia counties (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park) must also take a 90-minute course with their parent. While no proof is required, students will have to sign an affidavit that they have completed this extra component.  This course is offered periodically at public schools in the summer, and is also now available online for students taking an online class.

5. On-the-road training is the last step in obtaining a provisional license. You can take this training once you complete your classwork.  Highlights to know:

   • Most companies (and/or private instructors) require 7 consecutive days of training

     • CCA parents are recommending these:

       • Access Driving (Bristow)

       • Aloha Bob

       • IDriveSmart

   • Each session will be 2 hours long

   • The driving school will pick you up at your home and drop you back off again.

   • On the final day of training, the driving instructor will conduct your road test.

   • If you pass, you’ll receive a provision license (good for 180 days) that day!

     • Note – you must be 16 years, 3 months old to drive alone with your provisional license

     • You must have held your permit for 9 months

6. Getting your actual license – if you are younger than 18 years old

   • You’ll receive a postcard in the mail with a court date

   • You must appear in court with your parent on that day

     • Dress up – it’s a requirement for appearing in court

     • Arrive early to show respect

     • Expect to be in court for 1 to 1.5 hours

     • You’ll see a film, hear the judge, and be called forward to receive your license

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website has a wealth of information to help you.

• Sample permit test

• Very detailed instructions for applying for your permit

• Lists of approved programs for classroom and driver training

• Helps for parents and teens

God’s blessing to all of our CCA young people who will begin their driver’s education this summer!

Note: This document was developed by Suey Nordberg, CCA Guidance Counselor, for CCA students and their families.  Please send any questions, updates or corrections to snordberg@covenantva.org.