How to Use the Virginia Driver’s Handbook to Prepare for Your License Test
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If you’re preparing to get your Virginia permit or driver’s license, consider reading the Virginia driver’s handbook, taking permit practice tests, and building defensive driving habits through experience.
Learn more about the Virginia driver’s manual below and how to study for your driver’s license exams. Then, learn the best way to find cheap car insurance in Virginia.
Introduction to the Virginia Driver’s Handbook
First-time drivers must be over the age of 16 years and 3 months to qualify for a driver’s license, although you can apply for a permit once you reach the age of 15 years and 6 months.
Drivers under 18 must complete a state-approved driver’s education course and provide written consent from a parent or guardian to take the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) driving test. Drivers over 18 must either take a state-approved driver’s education course or hold a driving permit for at least 60 days to take the driving test.
All first-time drivers must pass a knowledge exam and a road skills test. In addition to gaining hands-on experience through a driving course or permit practice, the Virginia driver’s manual can be an extremely helpful tool for passing these tests.
Key Sections of the Handbook
The Virginia DMV driver’s manual has sections that contain much of the key knowledge you’ll need to pass the driving exam. Some of its major chapters include:
- Signals and signs
- Safe driving
- Safety features
- Penalties
- License types
- And more
Overview of Traffic Laws in Virginia
The Virginia driving manual includes basic information about the rules of the road, such as right-of-way, speed limits, turning, following distance, and headlights. You can also read about how to yield, perform specific driving maneuvers, manage driving in unsafe conditions, and more.
Some sections include specific information about important Virginia driving laws, such as:
- Who is required to wear a seatbelt
- Children and safety seat requirements
- A list of offenses that result in license suspension or revocation
- Virginia auto insurance requirements
- Alcohol-related laws
- License requirements
Understanding Road Signs and Their Meanings
You can use the driver’s manual to study descriptions and images of all road signs, traffic markings, and signals. This includes:
- Basic solid and arrow lights
- Flashing lights
- Lane use signals
- Traffic, regulatory, and warning signs
- Pavement markings
Safe Driving Practices for All Road Users
The largest section in the Virginia driver’s manual has information about road safety. It covers most topics to basic vehicle maneuvers and driving situations, such as:
- Speed limits
- Stopping
- Changing lanes
- Turning
- Maintaining space
- Blind spots
- Sharing the road
- Parking
- Lights
- Dangerous driving conditions and behaviors
- Car accidents
Preparing for the Knowledge and Road Skills Tests
A driver’s education course gives you plenty of opportunities to gain both book knowledge and experience through safe driving practice. While drivers under 18 must complete a state-approved course, it can be helpful for anyone of any age.
Getting your permit also allows you to practice driving. This is helpful whether or not you take a driving class, as you can also practice at home. Real-life experience can help ease your nerves, familiarize you with vehicle features, and get you comfortable performing basic driving tasks before your test.
Another excellent study tool is to take practice tests. Practice permit tests or practice road knowledge tests can help you get a feel for the questions you might need to answer. The Virginia driver’s manual has all the information you need to pass the test, plus a sample test in the back. Other practice tests are also available online.
Reducing Violations and Accidents Through Knowledge
A driver’s education course and driving exam provide drivers with the proper knowledge to drive safely and legally. Reading the driver’s manual and preparing for the tests ensures you know what constitutes a violation, increases your awareness of road safety rules, and helps you gain experience with proper driving skills.
Knowledge and experience help drivers make better driving decisions, ultimately reducing traffic violations and car accidents.
Accessing the Virginia Driver’s Handbook
The full Virginia driver’s handbook is available online. You can also find it broken down by section — and a Spanish version — on the DMV website. The DMV also provides study guides and practice exams for the manual.
Drive Smarter and Safer: Get the Insurance You Need
The vehicle you use to take your driver’s exam must have a valid inspection sticker, registration, and license plates. To obtain these, you’ll also need to purchase Virginia car insurance. Virginia requires liability insurance, and its minimum coverage limits are set to increase for policies effective after January 1, 2025.
Policies with higher coverage limits can be expensive. Rates vary based on ZIP code and driver profile. The best way to find an affordable policy is to compare options. Use a tool like EverQuote to compare custom quotes from multiple providers in one place.