Virginia Road Signs & Driver Knowledge Test Exam Guide
At a glance
- Questions
- 40
- Passing score
- 100% (10 of 10) on road signs; 80%
- Exam fee
- $0
- Governing body
- Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
The Virginia Road Signs & Driver Knowledge Test is the written exam new drivers must pass to earn a learner's permit or driver's license in Virginia. It is administered by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and checks whether you can recognize common road signs and apply the state's traffic rules.
Overview
The knowledge exam is split into two parts. The first part focuses entirely on road sign recognition, and the second part covers general rules of the road and safe driving practices.
- Part one tests road sign recognition with 10 questions
- Part two tests general knowledge, rules of the road, and safe driving with 30 questions
- You must answer all 10 road sign questions correctly before the exam lets you continue into part two
Exam format
The full exam has 40 questions total. To pass, you need a perfect 10 of 10 on the road signs section and at least 80%, or 24 of 30, correct on the general knowledge section.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the real Virginia DMV knowledge exam?
The exam has 40 questions total, split into a 10-question road signs part and a 30-question general knowledge part.
What is the passing score for the Virginia DMV knowledge test?
You must answer all 10 road sign questions correctly and score at least 80%, or 24 out of 30, on the general knowledge questions.
Do I need to answer every road sign question correctly to pass?
Yes. All ten road sign questions in part one must be correct before the exam allows you to continue into the general knowledge section.
What topics does the general knowledge portion of the exam cover?
It covers rules of the road and safe driving practices beyond sign recognition, such as right-of-way and traffic laws. For the full topic list, consult the Virginia Driver's Manual.
How many times can I retake the Virginia DMV knowledge exam if I fail?
Retake policies and any waiting periods are set by Virginia DMV rules and can change, so confirm current retake limits with the Virginia DMV directly before your test date.
Is there a fee to take the Virginia DMV knowledge exam?
Exam and licensing fees can change, so check the Virginia DMV's official fee schedule for the current amount before you go in.
Sources
- 1.Virginia driver knowledge test — official test description — Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) (accessed Aug 9, 2026)
- 2.Virginia driver knowledge test — official test description — Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) (accessed Aug 9, 2026)
Official sources
Every exam fact on this page traces to a primary document published by the body that administers the exam.
- Virginia DMV - Knowledge ExamVirginia DMVdmv.virginia.gov
- Virginia DMV Fee Chart (DMV 201)Virginia DMVdmv.virginia.gov
- Virginia DMV - Apply for a Learner's PermitVirginia DMVdmv.virginia.gov
- Virginia driver knowledge test — official test descriptionVirginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)dmv.virginia.gov
- Virginia driver knowledge test — official test descriptionVirginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)dmv.virginia.gov
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