Most new drivers in Virginia dread their road test, also known as the road skills test – and it can be extremely nerve-wracking. But with the proper preparation, you can make the experience far less stressful. One of the best things to do to prepare for your test is to find out what to expect.
Below you’ll find all you need to know about taking and passing the Virginia road test so that you can take it with confidence.
In Virginia, there are a number of requirements before you are allowed to take the road test. If you’re under the age of 18 and haven’t had a driver’s license before, make sure that you’ve completed the following before you schedule your appointment.
If you’re over the age of 18, but have not held a driver’s license before, you must complete the following requirements to be eligible to take the road test in Virginia.
Regardless of your age, you’ll have to bring the proper identification documents: two proofs of residency, one proof of identity, one proof of legal presence, and one proof of your social security number. You should bring your permit as well.
When you’re ready to take your road skills test, go ahead and schedule an appointment with the Virginia DMV. Walk-in appointments are not allowed. You’ll also need to fill out this application form.
The Virginia road test is taken in your own vehicle, so you’ll want to make sure that it qualifies. If it doesn’t, you will not be allowed to take your test.
Make sure that your vehicle has:
Also, ensure that your vehicle is in working order by checking your:
When you head to the Virginia DMV to take your road skills test, remember to bring the following:
If you’ve changed your name, and your name is different on the documents you bring, you’ll need proof of a name change as well.
You’ll need to be accompanied by a licensed adult who will either drive your vehicle to the testing site or supervise you as you drive. However, they will not be allowed in the vehicle during your test. Make sure that you arrive around 15 minutes early to your test with the correct documents. If you’re late, you may have to reschedule.
During COVID-19 – you are asked to wait in your car until 15 minutes before your appointment. You’ll then check in with an employee outside of the DMV, who will direct you to the testing area.
Unlike many other states, the Virginia road skills test takes place on a designated course rather than a public road. However, you should drive as if you were on a public road. The testing area will be marked off by cones, which will represent various boundaries and reference points. There will also be signs like on normal roads.
During the road test, you’ll have to perform a variety of maneuvers within a time limit. You should be prepared to:
You will have three minutes to complete each of these maneuvers. You may be asked to complete other maneuvers as well. To pass your road test, you’ll have to demonstrate that you can properly and safely control a vehicle. Your examiner will evaluate your performance based on your acceleration control, braking, steering, use of turn signals, use of mirrors, judgment of space, backing skills, visual skills, and general driving skills.
During COVID-19 – To ensure proper social distancing, your examiner will instruct you from outside of your vehicle rather than from the passenger seat. You should keep your window down so that the instructor is able to communicate instructions to you. If your vehicle’s windows aren’t clear enough for the examiner to see into your car, you may have to roll all the windows down to ensure an adequate view. If an examiner blows their whistle or raises their hand, you must come to a stop, put the car into park, and wait for instructions.
Failing a road test is never fun, but knowing what will cause an automatic failure is helpful for the purpose of avoiding it.
The following actions cause an automatic failure on the road test in Virginia:
That’s everything you need to know about the Virginia driving test. We hope this guide has helped you out, and that you now feel comfortable with the steps moving forward.
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