What You Need to Know
- Do You Need to Retake Your Driving Test When Renewing Your License? Drivers aged 75 and older must renew in person every five years. Most Virginians do NOT need to retake any driving tests at renewal. However, if your license has expired for more than one year, you will be required to retake the vision screening, the two-part knowledge exam, and the road skills test.
- Renewal Cycle: In-person Renewal is required for all drivers aged 75+ every five years. All other drivers renew their driver’s license every eight years and in-person every other renewal cycle.
- Tests: Drivers who let their license expire for more than one year must renew their license in-person and will be required to retake the vision screening, the two-part knowledge exam, and the road skills test.
- Cost: A standard license costs $32. But there is an additional cost of $10 to apply for the REAL ID. A full breakdown of fees can be found on the DMV website at dmv.virginia.gov.
- Appointments: You cannot renew your license online or by mail if you are over 75 years of age. You must renew it in person. You can make an appointment with the DMV online at dmv.virginia.gov. Walk-ins are available; you need to check in at the Information Desk or scan the QR code in the lobby to get an e-ticket.
Introduction
For most Virginia drivers, license renewal is straightforward with no retesting required. However, if your license has been expired for more than one year, you will be required to retake the vision screening, a two-part knowledge exam, and a road skills test.
From renewing your license online to vision test details, this article will walk you through what you need to know to renew your license in Virginia as an experienced driver.
Why Renewing Your License on Time Matters
Renewing your driver’s license on time keeps you legally compliant, confirms that you still meet Virginia’s driving requirements, and protects your independence. Letting your license lapse, even briefly, can create extra steps and paperwork at renewal time.
Here’s what you need to know about renewal timing:
- Most Virginia drivers must renew their license every eight years.
- Drivers aged 75 and older must renew their license in person every five years and pass a vision screening.
- All drivers must renew in person at least every other renewal cycle (for example, if you renew online in 2025, you must go in person in 2033).
How to Renew Your License In-Person
In-person Renewal is required for all drivers aged 75 and older, and for all other drivers at least every other renewal cycle. It is also required any time you need a new photo, have a name change, or are upgrading to a REAL ID.
Appointments vs. Walk-Ins
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices accept both appointments and walk-ins. Making an appointment online at dmv.virginia.gov is strongly recommended. Making an appointment typically means shorter wait times and a faster overall visit. Walk-ins are welcome but may involve a longer wait, especially at busy locations.
What to Bring
- A completed DL 1P form
- Payment: $32 for a standard license; $42 if upgrading to a REAL ID
- Proof of legal presence (if required)
- Documents for REAL ID upgrade (if applicable): identity, Social Security Number, and Virginia residency proof (see below for additional information)
- Your current license or any other required identification
If you chose to upgrade to a Real ID you’ll need:
- Proof of Identity: like an unexpired U.S. Passport, U.S. Birth Certificate, or Permanent Resident Card
- Social Security Number: like a copy of your social security Card or a W-2 form or Paystub with full SSN included
- Two Proofs of VA Residency: Could be a mortgage statement, utility bill, lease agreement, or voter registration card
- If your name changed bring your marriage certificate or court orders
The Real ID is not required to be licensed by the state to drive. However, it is required to fly in the U.S. or access secure federal facilities or military bases.
What Happens at the DMV
At your appointment, you will pay your renewal fee, take a vision screening test if required, and have a new photograph taken. The DMV staff will guide you through each step.
Virginia Vision Requirements for License Renewal
During your in-person renewal, a DMV staff member will ask you to look into a machine and read lines of letters or numbers. This is not a medical exam, it simply confirms that your vision meets the legal minimum for safe driving.
How to Renew Your License Online or by Mail
Many drivers are eligible to renew their license without going to the DMV – either online or by mail. This can save significant time and is a convenient option for eligible drivers.
Renewing Online
If you are eligible to renew online, visit the DMV website. You will complete a digital form and pay by credit or debit card. Your renewed license will arrive in the mail.
Renewing by Mail
If you’re eligible to renew your license by mail, you will receive a renewal reminder in the mail. To complete your renewal:
- Sign and date your renewal reminder
- Write a check or money order with the correct payment amount (do not send cash; credit card numbers cannot be accepted by mail)
- Seal both in an enclosed envelope and mail to:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 26506
Richmond, VA 23260-6505
If you renew by mail, the DMV will use the photograph on your existing license. Your renewed license may take up to 15 days to arrive.
FAQ
Do I have to retake my driving test to renew my Virginia license? Drivers will be required to retake the vision screening, the two-part knowledge exam, and the road skills test, IF they let their license expire for more than one year.
How much does it cost to renew a Virginia driver’s license? In Virginia a standard license costs $32. But there is an additional cost of $10 to apply for the REAL ID. A full breakdown of fees can be found on the DMV website at dmv.virginia.gov.
Can I renew my Virginia license online if I am over 75? No, drivers 75 years and older will need to renew their license in person every five years.
What happens if my Virginia driver’s license expires? Drivers who allow their Virginia license to expire for more than a year, are required to renew their license in person and take the two-part knowledge exam, and the road skills test.
Do I need a REAL ID to renew my Virginia driver’s license? A REAL ID is not required to drive; you can use your current or a renewed Virginia driver's license. But it is required to enter a federal building or fly within the United States. A REAL ID does NOT replace your passport, which is needed to fly internationally.
Can I walk into a Virginia DMV without an appointment? Yes, Virginia DMV offices accept both appointments and walk-ins. Making an appointment online at dmv.virginia.gov is strongly recommended.