Virginia CDL Test Locations 2026: Knowledge and Skills Tests
Virginia CDL test locations for 2026: DMV customer service centers for knowledge testing, central CDL skills-test sites, scheduling, third-party testers, and what to verify.
Virginia uses different resources for the knowledge exams and the commercial skills test. Knowledge exams are available through DMV customer service centers, while the state publishes dedicated CDL skills-testing locations and also regulates certified third-party testers.
Knowledge Exams
Virginia CDL knowledge exams are computer-based and are taken through DMV customer service centers. All CDL applicants take General Knowledge, with additional exams based on the vehicle class, air brakes, and endorsements.
Dedicated CDL Skills-Test Sites
Virginia DMV publishes a CDL Testing Locations directory with district-based central sites and scheduling contact information. Current listings include central sites serving areas such as Richmond, Tidewater, Staunton, and Northern Virginia, along with other district locations in the statewide directory.
Use the current DMV location page rather than relying on an old address list. Testing locations, contacts, and scheduling procedures can change.
Third-Party Testing
Virginia also certifies certain training schools and other entities as third-party CDL testers. That status is not automatic for every driving school. If a school says it administers the final road skills test, verify the location and tester through Virginia DMV's current records.
Scheduling
For DMV-administered CDL skills testing, use the contact information attached to the appropriate CDL testing location. Virginia estimates about 90 minutes for the full three-part test.
Vehicle Requirement
A DMV representative administers the skills test in a vehicle provided by the applicant. The vehicle must be representative of the license sought and meet registration, inspection, and safety-equipment requirements.
Before You Travel
- Confirm whether the appointment is for knowledge testing or the three-part CDL skills test.
- Use Virginia DMV's current location directory for the site and contact information.
- Confirm that your CLP holding period and applicable ELDT are complete.
- Verify the representative vehicle and its paperwork.
- Contact the testing site in advance if you cannot attend so you do not trigger the missed-appointment fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Virginia CDL skills test at every DMV customer service center?
No. Virginia publishes dedicated CDL testing locations for the commercial skills test.
Can a CDL school give the final test?
Some certified third-party testers can, but not every school has that authority. Verify the school's tester status.
Where do I take the CDL written tests?
Virginia DMV customer service centers administer the commercial knowledge exams.
Sources: Virginia DMV CDL Testing Locations; Virginia DMV CDL Knowledge Exams; Virginia DMV CDL Skills Tests; Virginia DMV Third-Party Tester resources. Last verified October 2026.
Free Virginia CDL study guides. Not affiliated with Virginia DMV or FMCSA.