RICHMOND, VA (Rocktown Now) — Beginning January 1, 2027, Virginians ages 18 to 20 applying for their first driver’s license will need to meet new licensing requirements. Under the new law, applicants must hold a learner’s permit for at least 90 days and complete an approved driver education course before receiving their license.

The changes come from House Bill 1224 and apply to young adults who have never held a driver’s license from Virginia, another state, a U.S. territory or another country.

Under 18 (unchanged) Complete approved driver education course and, Hold learner’s permit for at least nine months 
18-20 Complete approved driver education course AND, Hold learner’s permit for at least 90 days 
21+ Complete approved driver education course OR, Hold learner’s permit for at least 60 days 

Applicants who obtained their learner’s permit before January 1, 2027, will need to meet the new requirements. The time they held their permit before January 1 will count toward the required 90 days. For example, someone who obtained their permit on November 1, 2026, will reach the 90-day mark on January 30, 2027. These applicants must also complete an approved driver education course and meet all other requirements before receiving their license.

Applicants ages 21 and older who are getting their first driver’s license will continue to have two options: hold a learner’s permit for at least 60 days or complete an approved driver education course while holding the permit.

After completing a driver education program, the driver training school will send the completion certificate directly to DMV. Applicants do not need to submit the certificate themselves. Once all requirements are met, DMV will mail the driver’s license to the address on file. Anyone who has moved should update their address with DMV, as the U.S. Postal Service does not forward driver’s licenses.

The requirements for applicants under age 18 will not change. They may be required to attend a court licensing ceremony with a parent or guardian to receive their driver’s license. If a ceremony is required, the court will mail a notice. If no ceremony is required, DMV will mail the license to the applicant’s address on file.

For more information about the new licensing requirements, visit DMV’s website or FAQ page.