Virginia Driver License — Requirements, Renewal & REAL ID
Complete guide to getting, renewing, and upgrading your Virginia driver license in 2026. Issued by the Virginia DMV (dmv.virginia.gov). Includes document checklist, renewal steps, REAL ID requirements, and suspended license reinstatement.
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Virginia driver license — key facts 2026
Complete guides
Virginia driver license — step by step
Getting a new Virginia driver license
Apply in person at a Virginia DMV office. Bring original documents — photocopies and digital documents are not accepted. Allow 1–2 hours for your first visit including the knowledge test and vision screening.
Required documents
Identity & presence
- ✓US passport or certified birth certificate from vital records (hospital copies not accepted)
- ✓Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub showing full 9-digit SSN
- ✓Proof of lawful presence if non-US citizen: visa, I-94, Green Card, or EAD
Residency & application
- ✓Two proofs of Virginia residency — utility bill, bank statement, lease, or government mail — showing full name and current address, dated within 90 days
- ✓Completed DMV application (available at dmv.virginia.gov or at the office)
- ✓Application fee: $64 (verify at dmv.virginia.gov)
Virginia licenses are valid for 8 years and the state has a robust online services portal. Virginia has an Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP) requirement before DUI reinstatement. The state charges one of the higher reinstatement fees at $145.
Renewing your Virginia driver license
Virginia driver licenses are valid for 8 years. Renew online at dmv.virginia.gov if your information has not changed. In-person renewal is required for REAL ID upgrades.
Renewal options
- Online (Yes): Visit dmv.virginia.gov with your license number, date of birth, last 4 SSN digits, and $64 payment
- In person: Visit any Virginia DMV office with current license, address proof if changed, and payment
- REAL ID upgrade: Must be done in person with full REAL ID documentation
REAL ID in Virginia
REAL ID enforcement took effect . A REAL ID-compliant license, US passport, or other accepted federal ID is required for domestic flights and federal facility access.
Virginia REAL ID requires an in-person visit to a Virginia DMV Customer Service Center. Online pre-application is available at dmv.virginia.gov. Virginia REAL ID licenses display the gold star.
REAL ID document checklist for Virginia
Identity (choose one)
- ✓US passport or passport card
- ✓Certified birth certificate from vital records (NOT hospital copy)
- ✓Permanent Resident Card or EAD
SSN, residency & name
- ✓Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub with full 9-digit SSN
- ✓Two proofs of Virginia residency dated within 90 days
- ✓Name change docs if applicable — certified marriage certificate or court order
Suspended license in Virginia
Virginia charges $145 for DUI reinstatement and requires completion of the Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP). SR-22 is required for 3 years. An Ignition Interlock Device is required for DUI convictions. A restricted license may allow driving for work, school, and medical appointments.
DUI suspension key facts — Virginia
- Suspension length: 1 year
- Reinstatement fee: $145
- SR-22 requirement: 3 years
- Issuing authority: Virginia DMV
For complex situations — out-of-state violations, multiple suspensions, or document barriers — our specialists know the exact Virginia reinstatement process.
Virginia questions
Virginia driver license — FAQ
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