What might prevent Virginia from issuing a driver's license?

A mental or physical impairment that makes driving unsafe is a significant reason why Virginia may not issue a driver's license. The state places a strong emphasis on safety, evaluating an applicant's physical and mental capacity to operate a vehicle safely. If a person has a condition that could impair their ability to drive—such as severe vision problems, neurological conditions, or significant mobility issues—their application for a driver's license may be denied. This policy exists to protect not only the individual but also other drivers and pedestrians on the road.

While other factors like age or insufficient driving practice can create hurdles in obtaining a license, they do not inherently prevent the issuance as firmly as a mental or physical impairment does. For instance, individuals under the age of 18 may still be eligible for a learner's permit or may need to meet specific conditions to obtain a full license, but that is a temporary limitation. Similarly, minor traffic violations may lead to penalties or delays but generally do not outright prevent someone from getting a license. The focus is on ensuring that all drivers can operate vehicles safely and are fit to do so.