If you are planning to get your first driver’s license in Virginia in 2027, there is an important change you should know about.
A new Virginia licensing rule will take effect on January 1, 2027, affecting first-time drivers between 18 and 20 years old.
What Is Changing in Virginia?
Under the new Virginia driver license requirements for 2027, first-time license applicants between the ages of 18 and 20 will need to complete the newly required steps before applying for their license:
- Hold a Virginia learner’s permit for at least 90 days.
- Complete a qualifying driver education program during the learner’s permit period.
This means eligible new drivers can no longer rely on the previous 60-day learner’s permit option without completing driver education.
Who Does This Rule Apply To?
The new requirement applies specifically to first-time license applicants who are 18, 19, or 20 years old and have never previously held a driver’s license.
If you are 21 or older, different requirements apply. Applicants under 18 also continue to have separate Virginia driver education and learner’s permit requirements.
Why Driver Education Matters
A Virginia driver education course is more than simply completing a licensing requirement. Proper driver education helps new drivers develop essential knowledge, practical skills, and safer driving habits.
A quality driver education program helps students prepare for the Virginia road test while building the practical skills and safe driving habits they need on the road.
How Nest Driving School Can Help
For students preparing under the new Virginia driving requirements for 2027, Nest Driving School offers driver education and behind-the-wheel training designed to help learners build confidence and practical driving skills.
Nest is a DMV-certified driving school offering driver education programs, behind-the-wheel training, and instruction for both teens and adults.
Students can get help with:
- Driver education coursework
- Behind-the-wheel driving practice
- Developing safe driving habits
- Preparing for the Virginia road skills test
- Understanding the steps involved in obtaining a Virginia driver’s license
- Building confidence before driving independently
Nest also offers a 30-hour Driver’s Education Course and additional behind-the-wheel programs for eligible students.
Plan Ahead for Your Virginia Driver’s License
If you are 18–20 years old and planning to get your first Virginia driver’s license in 2027, don’t wait until the last minute. Understanding the new Virginia driver license requirements and completing your required driver education can help you stay on track.
Start your learner’s permit process, plan for the required 90-day holding period, and choose a qualified Virginia driving school that can help you develop the skills you need.
Ready to start? Nest Driving School can help you prepare for the new Virginia driver education requirements and become a safer, more confident driver.