Booking Your Virginia Driving Test: A 2025 Guide to Scheduling Your Appointment

You've passed your knowledge test, completed driver's ed, and logged your 45 hours of supervised practice. The final step toward earning your Virginia driver's license is scheduling and passing the on-road skills test. In Virginia, you must schedule this test in advance; walk-in appointments for road tests are generally not available.

This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to book your driving test appointment using the Virginia DMV's online system, ensuring you can secure your spot for the big day.

Before You Schedule: Key Eligibility Requirements

Before you can book your road test, you must meet several key requirements, especially if you are under 18.

• Valid Learner's Permit: You must have a valid, unexpired Virginia Learner's Permit.
• Age Requirement (for teens): You must be at least 16 years and 3 months old.
• Nine-Month Waiting Period (for teens): If you are under 18, you must have held your learner's permit for at least nine months.
• Driver Education (for teens): You must have successfully completed a state-approved driver education course (both classroom and in-car portions).
• 45-Hour Driving Log (for teens): A parent or guardian must be ready to certify that you have completed at least 45 hours of supervised driving practice, with 15 of those hours at night.
• 60-Day Waiting Period (for adults): If you are 18 or older, you must hold your learner's permit for at least 60 days.

The Primary Method: Scheduling Your Road Test Online

The most convenient and required way to schedule your driving test is through the official Virginia DMV's online appointment scheduler. This system is available 24/7 and allows you to see all available appointments at DMV Customer Service Centers across the state.

Step-by-Step Guide to Online Scheduling:

1. Visit the DMV Website: Navigate to the official Virginia DMV website. Look for a large button or link that says "Make an Appointment."

2. Select Your Service Category: The system will prompt you to choose a category of service. Select "In-Car Road Test."

3. Choose the Specific Service: You will then need to choose the specific type of test. Select "Road Skills Test (Non-CDL)."

4. Enter Your Information: The system will need to verify your identity. You will be prompted to enter personal details such as:

   • Your full name
   • Your date of birth
   • Your DMV customer number or Social Security number.

5. Choose a Location: The portal will allow you to search for available Customer Service Centers. You can search by your city or ZIP code to find the locations nearest to you. It's often recommended to choose a center in an area where you have practiced driving.

6. Select an Available Date and Time: Once you select a location, the system will display a calendar with all available dates and times.

   • Plan Ahead! Road test appointments are in high demand, especially during peak seasons like summer and after school. Slots can be booked weeks or even months in advance. Do not wait until your permit is about to expire to start looking for an appointment. It is crucial to book your test as early as you are eligible.

7. Confirm Your Appointment: Before you finalize, the system will show you a summary of your appointment details: location, date, and time. Double-check that all the information is correct.

8. Save Your Confirmation: Once you confirm, you should receive a confirmation email and/or text message. Save this confirmation. It is important proof of your appointment and will contain a link to cancel or reschedule if your plans change.

What About Third-Party Testers?

Virginia also authorizes certain private driving schools to conduct the official road test. This is known as third-party testing.

• Potential Benefits: The main advantage is often availability. A third-party tester may have more open appointments and shorter wait times than the DMV.
• Cost: This convenience comes at a price. Third-party testers charge a fee for their services, which is separate from and in addition to the DMV's license fee.
• Process: You would contact an approved driving school directly to schedule and pay for the test. If you pass, they will provide you with a certificate. You must then take this certificate and all your other required documents to a DMV office to be issued your license.

What if I Need to Cancel or Reschedule?

If you book with the DMV, use the link in your confirmation email to manage your appointment. It is essential to cancel as far in advance as possible to open the slot for another driver. If you fail to show up for your appointment without canceling, you may be temporarily blocked from scheduling a new test. If you book with a third-party tester, you must follow their specific cancellation policy.

By planning, ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, and using the online scheduling tool effectively, you can easily secure your road test appointment and take that final, exciting step toward freedom on the open road.