Getting your learner’s permit is an exciting step towards getting your driver’s license. But how long can you actually have a learner’s permit before you need to get your license? The answer depends on your age and where you live. This article will focus on Virginia’s requirements.
Learner’s Permit Duration in Virginia: Age Matters
The length of time you can hold a learner’s permit in Virginia differs significantly based on whether you’re 18 or older, or under 18. Let’s break down each scenario:
18 Years or Older:
- Minimum 60 Days: If you’re 18 or older and have never held a driver’s license before (from any state, U.S. territory, or foreign country), you must hold your learner’s permit for at least 60 days.
- Driver’s Education Option: Alternatively, you can complete a state-approved driver education program while holding your permit. This fulfills the time requirement, regardless of how long you’ve held the permit. Remember to submit your completion certificate when applying for your driver’s license.
Under 18 Years Old:
More stringent requirements apply for those under 18:
- Mandatory Driver’s Education: You must successfully complete a state-approved driver education program.
- Minimum 9 Months: You must hold your learner’s permit for at least nine months.
- 45 Hours of Driving Practice: Your parent or guardian must certify that you’ve completed at least 45 hours of supervised driving practice, including 15 hours after sunset. This certification is part of the driver education completion certificate.
Limited Duration Learner’s Permits
If you’re in the U.S. on a temporary visa, your learner’s permit validity will match the duration of your legal stay. This permit’s expiration date will align with the expiration date on your legal presence document. Note that if your authorized stay is less than 30 days, you won’t be eligible for a learner’s permit.
Out-of-State Learner’s Permits and Virginia Residency
If you move to Virginia with a valid out-of-state learner’s permit, the time you held that permit counts towards fulfilling Virginia’s minimum holding period requirements. You will still need to meet all other Virginia requirements, including providing your current learner’s permit.
Beyond the Time Limit: Getting Your Driver’s License
Once you’ve met the learner’s permit time requirement, completed driver’s education (if necessary), and fulfilled all other requirements, you can apply for your driver’s license. This will involve passing a road skills test.
Conclusion: Know Your Requirements
Understanding how long you can have your learner’s permit is crucial for planning your journey to becoming a licensed driver. In Virginia, the duration depends on your age, ranging from a minimum of 60 days for those 18 and older to nine months for those under 18. Ensure you understand the specific requirements for your age group to avoid any delays in obtaining your driver’s license.
