Virginia Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Virginia law requires newly lowered speed limits to be conspicuously marked.
RADAR detectors are prohibited but may be transported with no power source and not accessible to passenger compartment. Mobile scanners are permitted.
The officer is required by law to show the offending driver the reading on the VASCAR unit.
Although speeding more than 19 mph over the posted limit is considered “reckless driving,” any speed over 80 mph is considered reckless. Thus on highways with 65 mph speed limits, you will be cited with reckless driving at only 15 mph over the posted speed limit. State troopers are motivated to make a special effort to give "reckless driving" citations since they get more credit for them than for routine speeding tickets.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 55 mph |
| Interstates | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | No |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | * |
| Parking | * |
| Equipment | * |
| DWI | * |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
All accidents must be reported immediately to the local authorities.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Financial responsibility law.
Security-type law applicable in the event of an accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $750.
Minimum limits: $25,000/50,000/20,000.
Uninsured motorist insurance is required.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Virginia has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 6-month driver's license suspension.
- Concealed carry permits are available and permits from other states are recognized: http://www.vsp.state.va.us/Firearms_Reciprocity.shtm
- Studded tires are prohibited.
- Tire chains are not required unless posted otherwise.
- The officer is required by law to show the cited driver the reading on the Laser reading.
- The officer must be in uniform when issuing a speeding ticket.
- Virginia has a seat belt law with secondary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- Virginia has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 16 years of age. Children under the age of 4 must use approved car safety seats.
- Virginia has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration must be carried in the vehicle. Insurance card is not required to be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 804/674-2000
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: #SP (#77)