Virginia DMV Permit Test & Driver’s License Guide
If you’re preparing for your learner’s permit or driver’s license in Virginia, one of the most common questions is: “How many questions are on the DMV test in Virginia?” The short answer: 40 questions total, divided into two parts.
But passing isn’t as simple as memorizing numbers. You need to know how the exam works, what topics are covered, and how to study effectively. At Nova Driving School VA, we’ve helped thousands of students across Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William, Springfield, and Alexandria successfully prepare for the Virginia DMV test.
This guide breaks down the exam format, scoring, practice tips, and what to do if you fail.
DMV Knowledge Exam Overview
According to the Virginia DMV:
- The exam is required to obtain a learner’s permit or license.
- It’s a computer-based multiple-choice test (or oral, upon request).
- Questions are based on the Virginia Driver’s Manual.
How Many Questions Are on the Virginia Permit Test?
The Virginia permit/knowledge test has two parts:
Part One: Road Signs
- 10 questions about Virginia road signs.
- You must answer all 10 correctly to move on.
Part Two: General Knowledge
- 30 multiple-choice questions.
- You must get at least 24 correct (80%).
✅ Total = 40 questions.
✅ Passing = 100% on signs + 80% on general knowledge.
DMV Virginia Test Languages
Except for CDL HAZMAT, the DMV knowledge exam is available in:
- English, American Sign Language (ASL), Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, French, Korean, Russian, Vietnamese, and more.
This helps students in diverse areas like Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax who may feel more comfortable testing in their native language.
How to Prepare for the DMV Knowledge Test
- Study the Driver’s Manual → Download the Virginia Driver’s Manual.
- Take DMV Practice Tests → Many free and official tests are available.
- Try searching “Virginia DMV practice test” or “Virginia permit practice test”.
- Use a driving school course → Courses like our Online Driver’s Ed guide you step by step.
- Get extra help → If you’ve failed, our Re-Examination Course is DMV-approved and required after 3 failed attempts.
Passing the Virginia DMV Test
To pass:
- Answer 10/10 road sign questions correctly.
- Score at least 24/30 on general knowledge.
If you fail the road sign portion, the test ends immediately. This is why we emphasize road sign memorization during our Behind the Wheel training.
Retaking the DMV Test
he DMV rules depend on your age:
- Under 18: Must wait 15 days before retaking.
- 18 or older: May test once per day.
- Fail 3 times: Must complete a DMV-approved course like Nova’s Re-Examination Course.
👉 DMV rule: Knowledge Exam Retakes
What Happens After You Pass?
Once you pass, you’ll get your learner’s permit or license. From there:
- Teens must complete 45 hours of supervised driving.
- Teens must also finish a 7-day Behind the Wheel program.
- Adults may qualify for the Adult Waiver Course to skip the DMV road test.
Common Mistakes Students Make
- Relying only on free online quizzes instead of the full manual.
- Ignoring road signs — you must get them 100% correct.
- Test anxiety from lack of practice.
- Failing three times without planning for the re-exam course.
Why Choose Nova Driving School VA for DMV Test Prep?
- DMV-approved training.
- Online Driver’s Ed for required study.
- Behind the Wheel in Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William, Springfield, Alexandria.
- Re-Examination Course if you’ve failed multiple times.
- Driver Improvement Clinic if you need points or insurance savings.
Virginia DMV Permit Test FAQ
40 total → 10 road sign questions (must get 10/10) + 30 general knowledge (need 24/30).
➡️ Nova offers full practice prep in Fairfax and Springfield.
Yes, but only if you meet DMV eligibility requirements. You’ll still visit a DMV office for processing.
➡️ Our Online Driver’s Ed prepares students for both in-person and online formats.
Under 18 → wait 15 days. Adults → once per day. After 3 failures, a re-exam course is required.
➡️ Nova’s Re-Examination Course fulfills DMV requirements and improves your chances.
Proof of identity, Social Security number, residency documents, and driver’s ed certificate (if under 18).
➡️ Our instructors guide you through DMV paperwork so you don’t miss anything.
Not for just the permit, but it is required to get your license if you’re under 18.
➡️ Nova provides Driver’s Ed and Behind the Wheel across Northern Virginia.
Final Thoughts
The Virginia DMV test is your first big step toward earning your license. By understanding the format — 40 total questions with road signs and knowledge — and preparing effectively, you can pass with confidence.
Whether you’re in Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William, Springfield, or Alexandria, Nova Driving School VA has the courses, instructors, and experience to help you succeed.
👉 Start now with our Online Driver’s Ed or Re-Examination Course — and take the first step toward your Virginia driver’s license.
