Drivers under age 75: Must renew their license every 8 years. They may renew online, by mail, or in person, following standard DMV procedures.
Drivers age 75 and older: Must renew their license every 5 years, and in person at a Virginia DMV office. Online or mail renewals are not permitted for this age group.
In-Person Renewal Process for Seniors
When renewing in person, seniors must:
- Pass a vision test: DMV staff will conduct this screening for free at the office, or you may bring a vision report from an ophthalmologist or optometrist dated within 90 days of your renewal request.
- Pay the standard renewal fee: As of 2025, a standard license renewal costs $32.
- Have a new photograph taken and provide proof of legal presence if required.
Additional Testing
- Written or road tests: These are not routinely required for seniors but may be requested at the discretion of DMV personnel if there are concerns about driving ability.
- Medical review: Anyone (especially relatives or medical professionals) can request the DMV to review a senior’s driving fitness if there are safety concerns. The DMV may then impose restrictions, require additional testing, or suspend the license if necessary.
Special Considerations
- Most common restriction: Requirement to wear glasses or corrective lenses while driving, if needed for vision.
- Disabled parking placards or plates: Seniors with impaired mobility can apply for these with certification from a licensed medical practitioner.
Key Points for Virginia Seniors
| Age Group | Renewal Interval | In-Person Required? | Vision Test Required? | Online/Mail Renewal? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 75 | 8 years | Every other cycle | At in-person renewal | Yes, if eligible |
| 75 and older | 5 years | Every renewal | Yes | No |
Virginia requires drivers age 75 and older to renew their licenses every five years, always in person, with a mandatory vision test at each renewal. Written or road tests may be required if DMV staff have concerns about driving ability.
For drivers under 75, renewals are every eight years, with online and mail options available. Seniors should be prepared for in-person visits and vision checks to maintain their driving privileges.
Sources:
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/virginia-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
- https://augustafreepress.com/news/new-senior-drivers-license-renewal-law-effect-virginia-jan-1/
- https://virginianavigator.org/article/12857/driving-and-older-adult-virginia-dmv-process
- https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/license/renewing
- https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals