Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-749.13 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-749.13
Special license plates; Internet commerce industry
Status: in_force

On receipt of an application therefor, the Commissioner shall issue to the applicant special license plates designed to represent the Internet commerce industry.

1999, c. 907 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-432 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 14 / Section 46.2-432
Failure of nonresident to report accident
Status: in_force

The failure of a nonresident to report an accident as required in this title shall constitute sufficient ground for suspension or revocation of his privileges of driving a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth and of driving within the Commonwealth of any motor vehicle owned by him.

Code 1950, § 46-452; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-464; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1255 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 12.1 / Section 46.2-1255
Confiscation of disabled parking placards
Status: in_force

A. Any law-enforcement officer or private security guard acting pursuant to § 46.2-1243 who issues a summons to or arrests an individual for any violation of §§ 46.2-1247 through 46.2-1249 and §§ 46.2-1251 through 46.2-1253 may confiscate the defendant's permanent, temporary, or organizational removable windshield placard and shall notify, by mail or facsimile, the Department of Motor Vehicles of such confiscation and the number of the placard involved.

B. After receiving notice specified in subsection A of this section, the Department may prohibit the issuance of any form of disabled parking license plate or placard to the defendant until the defendant's charge under §§ 46.2-1247 through 46.2-1249 and §§ 46.2-1251 through 46.2-1253 reaches final disposition, including appeals.

C. Upon the defendant's acquittal for any violation of §§ 46.2-1247 through 46.2-1249 and §§ 46.2-1251 through 46.2-1253 , the law-enforcement officer or private security guard shall return the confiscated placard to the defendant and the court shall notify the Department of such acquittal by electronic or other means. Upon the defendant's conviction for any violation of §§ 46.2-1247 through 46.2-1249 and §§ 46.2-1251 through 46.2-1253 , the law-enforcement officer or private security guard shall send the confiscated placard to the Department and the court shall notify the Department pursuant to § 46.2-1256 .

1997, cc. 783 , 904 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1518 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 2 / Section 46.2-1518
Display of salesperson's license; notice on termination
Status: in_force

No salesperson shall be employed by more than one dealer, unless the dealers are owned by the same person.

Each dealer shall post and maintain in a place conspicuous to the public a list of salespersons employed.

Each salesperson, factory representative, and distributor representative shall carry his license when engaged in his business and shall display it on request.

Each dealer shall notify the Board in writing not later than the tenth day following the month of the termination of any licensed salesperson's employment. In lieu of written notification, the license of the terminated salesperson may be returned to the Board annotated "terminated" on the face of the license and signed and dated by the dealer-operator, owner, or officer.

1988, c. 865, § 46.1-525.09; 1989, c. 727; 1995, cc. 767 , 816 ; 2015, c. 615 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1190.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 23 / Section 46.2-1190.1
Curricula requirements
Status: in_force

A. The curriculum used in a novice rider-training course to train novice riders shall be approved by the Department. Each participant enrolled in a novice rider-training course shall receive no less than the minimum number of hours of classroom and on-cycle instruction as specified in the current approved curriculum.

All novice rider courses shall include a module on the effects of alcohol and other drugs on motorcycle operation, and a thorough review of Virginia laws and rules of the road applicable to motorcycles. All novice rider course participants shall be provided one copy of the course textbook and one copy of the Virginia Motorcycle Operator Manual.

B. The curriculum used to train experienced riders shall be approved by the Department. Each participant enrolled in an experienced rider course shall receive no less than the minimum number of hours of classroom and on-cycle instruction as specified in the current approved curriculum.

All experienced rider courses shall include a module on the effects of alcohol and other drugs on motorcycle operation, and a review of Virginia laws and rules of the road applicable to motorcycles.

C. The curriculum used to train three-wheeled motorcycle riders shall be approved by the Department. Each participant enrolled in a three-wheeled motorcycle course shall receive no less than the minimum number of hours of classroom and on-cycle instruction as specified in the current curriculum.

All three-wheeled motorcycle course participants shall include a module on the effects of alcohol and other drugs on motorcycle operation, and a thorough review of Virginia laws and rules of the road applicable to motorcycles.

D. All course participants shall be required to wear the following protective gear during on-cycle instruction:

1. A motorcycle helmet that meets the requirements of § 46.2-910 ;

2. Eye protection;

3. A pair of boots or shoes that cover and protect the ankles and feet;

4. A long sleeved jacket or long sleeved shirt and long pants of denim or other material of equivalent durability; and

5. A pair of full-fingered gloves of leather or other material with resistance to abrasion.

E. The maximum number of students under the supervision of any one instructor at any one time and the maximum number of students on the same range at the same time shall comply with the recommendations of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, unless otherwise provided by the Department.

2004, c. 734 ; 2023, c. 361 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-749.56:1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-749.56:1
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2006, c. 437 , cl. 2.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-341.28 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 6.1 / Section 46.2-341.28
Penalty for driving commercial motor vehicle while intoxicated; subsequent offense; prior conviction
Status: in_force

A. Except as otherwise provided herein, any person violating any provision of subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum fine of $250. If the person's blood alcohol level as indicated by the chemical test as provided in this article or by any other scientifically reliable chemical test performed on whole blood under circumstances reliably establishing the identity of the person who is the source of the blood and accuracy of the results (i) was at least 0.15, but not more than 0.20, he shall be confined in jail for an additional mandatory minimum period of five days or (ii) was more than 0.20, he shall be confined in jail for an additional mandatory minimum period of 10 days.

B. 1. Any person convicted of a second offense committed within less than five years after a prior offense under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 shall upon conviction of the second offense be punished by a mandatory minimum fine of $500 and by confinement in jail for not less than one month nor more than one year. Twenty days of such confinement shall be a mandatory minimum sentence.

2. Any person convicted of a second offense committed within a period of five to 10 years of a prior offense under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 shall upon conviction of the second offense be punished by a mandatory minimum fine of $500 and by confinement in jail for not less than one month. Ten days of such confinement shall be a mandatory minimum sentence.

3. Upon conviction of a second offense within 10 years of a prior offense, if the person's blood alcohol level as indicated by the chemical test administered as provided in this article or by any other scientifically reliable chemical test performed on whole blood under circumstances reliably establishing the identity of the person who is the source of the blood and the accuracy of the results (i) was at least 0.15, but not more than 0.20, he shall be confined in jail for an additional mandatory minimum period of 10 days or (ii) was more than 0.20, he shall be confined for an additional mandatory minimum period of 20 days. In addition, such person shall be fined a mandatory minimum fine of $500.

C. 1. Any person convicted of three offenses under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 within a 10-year period is upon conviction of the third offense guilty of a Class 6 felony. The sentence of any person convicted of three offenses under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 shall include a mandatory minimum sentence of 90 days, unless the three offenses were committed within a five-year period, in which case the sentence shall include a mandatory minimum sentence of confinement for six months. In addition, such person shall be fined a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000.

2. Any person who has been convicted of a violation of § 18.2-36.1 , 18.2-36.2 , 18.2-51.4 , or 18.2-51.5 or a felony violation under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 is upon conviction of a subsequent violation under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 guilty of a Class 6 felony. The punishment of any person convicted of such a subsequent violation under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 shall include a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of one year and a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000.

3. The punishment of any person convicted of a fourth or subsequent offense under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 committed within a 10-year period shall, upon conviction, include a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of one year. In addition, such person shall be fined a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000.

D. In addition to the penalty otherwise authorized by this section, any person convicted of a violation of subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 committed while transporting a person 17 years of age or younger shall be (i) fined an additional minimum of $500 and not more than $1,000 and (ii) sentenced to a mandatory minimum period of confinement of five days.

E. For the purpose of determining the number of offenses committed by, and the punishment appropriate for, a person under this section, a conviction of any person or finding of not innocent in the case of a juvenile under the following shall be considered a conviction under subsection A of § 46.2-341.24: (i) § 18.2-36.1 , 18.2-51.4 , or 18.2-266 , former § 18.1-54 (formerly § 18-75), or subsection A of § 46.2-341.24 ; (ii) the ordinance of any county, city, or town in the Commonwealth substantially similar to the provisions of any offense listed in clause (i); or (iii) the laws of any other state or of the United States substantially similar to the provisions of any offense listed in clause (i).

F. Mandatory minimum punishments imposed pursuant to this section shall be cumulative, and mandatory minimum terms of confinement shall be served consecutively. However, in no case shall punishment imposed hereunder exceed the applicable statutory maximum Class 1 misdemeanor term of confinement or fine upon conviction of a first or second offense, or Class 6 felony term of confinement or fine upon conviction of a third or subsequent offense.

1989, c. 705, § 46.1-372.27; 1993, c. 673; 1997, c. 691 ; 2000, cc. 958 , 980 ; 2004, c. 461 ; 2017, c. 286 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-856 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 7 / Section 46.2-856
Passing two vehicles abreast
Status: in_force

A person shall be guilty of reckless driving who passes or attempts to pass two other vehicles abreast, moving in the same direction, except on highways having separate roadways of three or more lanes for each direction of travel, or on designated one-way streets or highways. This section shall not apply, however, to a motor vehicle passing two other vehicles when one or both of such other vehicles is a bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, or moped; nor shall this section apply to a bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, or moped passing two other vehicles.

Code 1950, §§ 46-209, 46-209.1; 1950, p. 880; 1952, c. 671; 1954, cc. 225, 401, 458; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-190; 1960, c. 510; 1964, c. 266; 1966, c. 694; 1968, c. 575; 1970, c. 521; 1974, cc. 222, 455; 1975, c. 633; 1978, c. 27; 1979, c. 86; 1981, cc. 333, 585; 1985, c. 148; 1989, c. 727; 2001, c. 834 ; 2002, c. 254 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-746.3 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-746.3
Special license plates for members or veterans of certain military reserve organizations
Status: in_force

The Commissioner, on application therefor, shall issue special license plates to members or veterans of the Air Force Reserve, the Army Reserve, the Coast Guard Reserve, the Marine Reserve, and the Naval Reserve. Such special license plates may, when feasible, bear decals or stickers identifying the reserve organization of which the applicant is or was a member.

The provisions of subdivision B 2 of § 46.2-725 shall not apply to license plates issued under this section.

Unremarried surviving spouses of persons eligible to receive special license plates under this section may also be issued special license plates under this section.

1995, c. 747 ; 1996, c. 1026 ; 2004, c. 747 ; 2018, c. 119 ; 2023, c. 539 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1200.3 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 12 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-1200.3
Limitation on removal and sale of abandoned vehicles
Status: in_force

No person may remove or sell any abandoned vehicle left on public property or the shoulder of a primary highway unless such person is acting pursuant to an agreement for such removal or sale with a local government entity or law-enforcement agency and has actual possession of the vehicle.

2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 374 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2011.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-2011.1
Issuance of temporary authority
Status: in_force

To enable the provision of service for which there is an immediate and urgent need to a point or between points in Virginia where certificated carriers are unable to perform the service, or within a territory having no certificated carrier, the Department may, in its discretion and without hearings or other proceedings, grant temporary authority for such service by a carrier that would otherwise be required to obtain a certificate under this chapter. Such temporary authority, unless suspended or revoked in accordance with § 46.2-2011.26 , shall be valid for such time as the Department shall specify, but for not more than an aggregate of 180 days, and shall create no presumption that corresponding permanent authority will be granted thereafter.

1996, c. 170 ; 2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-917 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 14 / Section 46.2-917
Operation of yellow motor vehicles of certain seating capacity on state highways prohibited; exceptions; penalty
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any motor vehicle licensed in Virginia having a seating capacity of more than 15 persons to be operated on the highways of the Commonwealth if it is yellow, unless it is used in transporting students who attend public, private, or religious schools or used in transporting elderly individuals or individuals with mental or physical disabilities.

Any violation of this section shall constitute a Class 1 misdemeanor.

1966, c. 586, § 46.1-169.1; 1968, c. 756; 1970, c. 521; 1989, c. 727; 2005, c. 928 ; 2023, cc. 148 , 149 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-375 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 11 / Section 46.2-375
Reports by medical examiners of deaths resulting from accidents
Status: in_force

Every person holding the office of medical examiner shall report to the Commissioner: (i) the death of a person in his jurisdiction as a result of a motor vehicle accident, immediately after learning of the death; (ii) on or before the tenth day of each month, all deaths resulting from motor vehicle accidents during the preceding calendar month. These reports shall be made in the form prescribed by the Commissioner.

Code 1950, §§ 46-402, 46-404; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-404; 1985, c. 10; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-226 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle I / Chapter 2 / Article 3 / Section 46.2-226
Electronic credentials
Status: in_force

A. The Department may issue electronic credentials to persons who hold a valid physical credential that the Department is authorized to issue.

B. If the Department issues electronic credentials, the credentials shall be issued in addition to, and not instead of, the underlying physical credentials for which a person is eligible. No electronic credential shall be issued unless the applicant holds the corresponding physical credential. Such electronic credentials shall be issued to an electronic credential system.

C. The Department may issue electronic credentials to third-party electronic credential systems if the Department first enters into an agreement with the owner of the third-party electronic credential system that sets forth the terms on which the electronic credentials may be displayed.

D. The Department may enter into agreements with an agency of the Commonwealth, another state of the United States, or the United States to grant access to the use of electronic credentials issued by such agency. The provisions of subsection B shall apply to credentials to which the Department grants such access unless, as part of the agreement permitting the Department to grant access, the other agency agrees that the Department may grant access to electronic credentials to persons not holding a corresponding physical credential.

2017, c. 697 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-748.2 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-748.2
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2002, c. 90 , cl. 2.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2086 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-2086
Interruption of service
Status: in_force

All interruptions of regular service that are likely to continue for more than twenty-four hours shall be promptly reported in writing to the Department with a full statement of cause of such interruption and its probable duration; however, any interruption of regular service that results from an act of God need not be reported to the Department unless it continues for more than seventy-two hours.

All interruptions of regular service shall be promptly reported to the agents of the carrier on the routes involved.

2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2082 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-2082
Schedule changes require Department approval; posting notice
Status: in_force

A common carrier operating under a certificate issued by the Department pursuant to this article shall not make any change in schedules or service without having first received the approval of the Department for such change in schedules or service and without first posting a notice of such change in a conspicuous place at each station or ticket agency affected at least ten days before the effective date thereon. Any request for a change in schedules or service shall be received by the Department a minimum of ten days prior to the proposed effective date of such change.

2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1025 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 3 / Section 46.2-1025
Flashing amber, purple, or green warning lights
Status: in_force

A. The following vehicles may be equipped with flashing, blinking, or alternating amber warning lights of types approved by the Superintendent:

1. Vehicles used for the principal purpose of towing or servicing disabled vehicles;

2. Vehicles used in constructing, maintaining, and repairing highways or utilities on or along public highways, or in assisting with the management of roadside and traffic incidents, or performing traffic management services along public highways;

3. Vehicles used for the principal purpose of removing hazardous or polluting substances from state waters and drainage areas on or along public highways, or state vehicles used to perform other state-required environmental activities, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;

4. Vehicles used for servicing automatic teller machines, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;

5. Vehicles used in refuse collection, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicles are engaged in refuse collection operations;

6. Vehicles used by individuals for emergency snow-removal purposes;

7. Hi-rail vehicles, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicles are operated on railroad rails;

8. Fire apparatus and emergency medical services vehicles, provided the amber lights are used in addition to lights permitted under § 46.2-1023 and are so mounted or installed as to be visible from behind the vehicle;

9. Vehicles owned and used by businesses providing security services, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public highway;

10. Vehicles used to collect and deliver the United States mail, provided the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is actually engaged in such collection or delivery;

11. Vehicles used to collect and deliver packages weighing less than 150 pounds by a national package delivery company that delivers such packages in all 50 states, provided that the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is stopped and its operator is engaged in such collection and delivery;

12. Vehicles used to transport petroleum or propane products, provided the amber light is mounted on the rear of the vehicle and is lit when parked while making a delivery of petroleum or propane products, or when the vehicle's back-up lights are lit and its device producing an audible signal when the vehicle is operated in reverse gear, as provided for in § 46.2-1175.1 , is in operation;

13. Vehicles used by law-enforcement agency personnel in the enforcement of laws governing motor vehicle parking;

14. Government-owned law-enforcement vehicles, provided the lights are used for the purpose of giving directional warning to vehicular traffic to move one direction or another and are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;

15. Chase vehicles when used to unload a hot air balloon or used to load a hot air balloon after landing, provided the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;

16. Vehicles used for farm, agricultural, or horticultural purposes, or any farm tractor;

17. Vehicles owned and used by construction companies operating under Virginia contractors licenses;

18. Vehicles used to lead or provide escorts for bicycle races authorized by the Department of Transportation or the locality in which the race is being conducted;

19. Vehicles used by radio or television stations for remote broadcasts, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;

20. Vehicles used by municipal safety officers in the performance of their official duties. For the purpose of this subdivision, "municipal safety officers" means municipal employees responsible for managing municipal safety programs and ensuring municipal compliance with safety and environmental regulatory mandates;

21. Vehicles used as pace cars, security vehicles, or firefighting vehicles by any speedway or motor vehicle race track, provided that the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is being operated on a public highway;

22. Vehicles used in patrol work by members of neighborhood watch groups approved by the chief law-enforcement officer of the locality in their assigned neighborhood watch program area, provided that the vehicles are clearly identified as neighborhood watch vehicles, and the amber lights are not lit while the vehicle is in motion;

23. Vehicles that are not tow trucks as defined in § 46.2-100 , but are owned or controlled by a towing and recovery business, provided that the amber lights are lit only when the vehicle is being used at a towing and recovery site;

24. Vehicles used or operated by federally licensed amateur radio operators (i) while participating in emergency communications or drills on behalf of federal, state, or local authorities or (ii) while providing communications services to localities for public service events authorized by the Department of Transportation where the event is being conducted;

25. Publicly owned or operated transit buses;

26. Vehicles used for hauling trees, logs, or any other forest products when hauling such products, provided that the amber lights are mounted or installed so as to be visible from behind the vehicle;

27. Vehicles authorized to use amber lights pursuant to § 46.2-1025.1 ; and

28. Vehicles used by a local department of social services to respond to a request for assistance from law-enforcement agency personnel.

B. Except as otherwise provided in this section, such amber lights shall be lit only when performing the functions which qualify them to be equipped with such lights.

C. Vehicles used to lead or provide escorts for funeral processions may use either amber warning lights or purple warning lights, but amber warning lights and purple warning lights shall not simultaneously be used on the same vehicle. The Superintendent of State Police shall develop standards and specifications for purple lights authorized in this subsection.

D. Vehicles used by police, firefighting, or emergency medical services personnel as command centers at the scene of incidents may be equipped with and use green warning lights of a type approved by the Superintendent. Such lights shall not be activated while the vehicle is operating upon the highway.

E. Vehicles displaying a permanent farm use placard pursuant to § 46.2-684.2 , farm vehicles, farm tractors, and farm utility vehicles operating on or along a highway may be equipped with and use green warning lights of a type approved by the Superintendent. Such lights shall only be activated while the vehicle is operating on or along a highway.

F. Snow plows used for clearing or removing snow on or along public highways and vehicles equipped with a truck-mounted attenuator that are used in constructing, maintaining, and repairing highways or utilities on or along public highways may be equipped with and use either (i) flashing, blinking, or alternating amber warning lights of types approved by the Superintendent or (ii) alternating amber and green warning lights of a type approved by the Superintendent. Except as otherwise provided in this section, such warning lights shall be lit only when performing the functions that qualify them to be equipped with such lights. If a vehicle is equipped with multiple warning lights authorized pursuant to clause (ii), such lights shall be used synchronously with each other.

Code 1950, § 46-273; 1954, c. 310; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-267; 1960, cc. 156, 391; 1962, c. 512; 1966, cc. 655, 664; 1968, c. 89; 1972, c. 7; 1974, c. 537; 1976, c. 6; 1977, c. 72; 1978, cc. 311, 357; 1980, c. 337; 1981, c. 338; 1984, cc. 440, 539; 1985, cc. 248, 269, 287, 462; 1986, cc. 124, 127, 229; 1987, cc. 347, 370; 1988, cc. 339, 351; 1989, c. 727; 1991, c. 465; 1992, cc. 93, 410, 805; 1995, c. 727 ; 1997, c. 149 ; 1998, cc. 134 , 417 ; 1999, cc. 18 , 72 , 232 ; 2000, cc. 84 , 121 , 278 ; 2003, c. 93 ; 2005, c. 574 ; 2010, c. 127 ; 2011, c. 268 ; 2014, c. 54 ; 2015, cc. 41 , 502 , 503 ; 2016, cc. 198 , 226 ; 2017, cc. 326 , 333 ; 2019, cc. 112 , 145 ; 2023, c. 613 ; 2024, c. 95 ; 2025, c. 82 ; 2026, cc. 190 , 498 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2085 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-2085
Abandonment, discontinuance, or deviation of service
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding anything contained in this chapter to the contrary, no common carrier regulated pursuant to this article shall abandon or discontinue any service established under the provisions of this chapter without permission of the Department and on such terms as the Department may prescribe. Common carriers may occasionally deviate from their route or routes when authorized to do so by the Department.

2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2070 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 4 / Section 46.2-2070
Permit restrictions
Status: in_force

A permit issued under this article shall authorize the holder named in the permit to transport bona fide employees solely to and from the factories, plants, offices or other places of like nature specified at the time of application.

2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1126 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 17 / Section 46.2-1126
Maximum gross weight, generally
Status: in_force

Except as provided in § 46.2-1128 , the gross weight imposed on the highway by a vehicle or combination shall not exceed the maximum weight given for the respective distance between the first and last axle of the vehicle or combination, nor shall any two or more consecutive axles exceed the maximum weight given, when measured longitudinally with any fraction of a foot rounded to the next highest as set forth in the following table:

Code 1950, § 46-334; 1952, c. 454; 1956, cc. 141, 476; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-339; 1962, c. 84; 1964, c. 354; 1974, c. 145; 1981, c. 187; 1982, c. 671; 1983, c. 515; 1987, c. 695; 1989, c. 727; 1994, c. 456 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1508.2 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 2 / Section 46.2-1508.2
Display, parking, selling, advertising sale of certain used motor vehicles prohibited
Status: in_force

A. 1. No owner or lessee of any real property shall permit the display or parking of five or more used motor vehicles per property within any 12-month period on such real property for the purpose of selling or advertising the sale of such used motor vehicles by the owner or lessee of such vehicles unless exempted pursuant to this section.

2. No owner or lessee of any used motor vehicle shall display or park such used motor vehicle on the real property of another for the purpose of selling or advertising the sale of such used motor vehicle if the display or parking of such vehicle will cause the owner or lessee of the real property to be in violation of the provisions of this section.

3. No owner or lessee of any used motor vehicle shall display or park such used motor vehicle on the real property of another for the purpose of selling or advertising the sale of such used motor vehicle unless the owner or lessee of such vehicle has the right to occupy such property pursuant to a lease or other occupancy document or prior written permission of the owner or lessee of the real property. Copies of such written permission shall be posted on the inside of a side window of the motor vehicle and must be retained by both the property owner or lessee and by the vehicle owner for at least 12 months and shall be made available to law-enforcement officers or agencies, the Board, and local zoning officials upon request.

4. Except as permitted in § 46.2-631 and except as permitted in subsection B, no owner or lessee of any real property shall permit any used motor vehicle to be displayed or parked on such real property for the purpose of selling or advertising the sale of such used motor vehicle if such vehicle is not lawfully titled in the name of the individual or entity offering such vehicle for sale as provided in Chapter 6 (§ 46.2-600 et seq.). However, the limitation of this subdivision shall not apply if the individual offering the vehicle for sale is an immediate family member of the owner or lessee of the real property on which the motor vehicle is displayed or parked for the purpose of selling or advertising the sale of such vehicle.

5. Except as permitted in § 46.2-631 , no person shall advertise, display, sell, or offer for sale any used motor vehicle unless such vehicle is lawfully titled in such person's name as provided in Chapter 6 (§ 46.2-600 et seq.). However, this limitation shall not apply if the person offering the vehicle for sale is a motor vehicle dealer licensed under this chapter or has the authority pursuant to law to advertise, display, sell, or offer for sale the used motor vehicle.

B. The provisions of subsection A shall not apply if (i) the owner or lessee of the vehicle displayed or parked is employed by the owner or lessee of the real property on which the vehicle is displayed or parked; (ii) the owner or lessee of the vehicle displayed or parked is conducting business with the owner or lessee of the real property on which the vehicle is parked or displayed at the time such vehicle is displayed or parked; (iii) the real property on which a vehicle is parked is a parking lot for which a fee is charged for the use of such parking lot, the owner or lessee of the parked vehicle has paid the fee for the use of such parking lot, and such vehicle is legitimately parked on the property for purposes other than displaying, selling, or advertising the sale of such vehicle; or (iv) the vehicle displays a dealer's license plate pursuant to § 46.2-1550 and the licensed dealer is not displaying for sale or selling a motor vehicle at a location other than his specific business location without first meeting the requirements of § 46.2-1516 .

The provisions of subsection A shall also not apply to (a) any motor vehicle dealer licensed under this chapter or (b) any owner or lessee of real property who permits the display or parking of five or more used motor vehicles on such real property by a licensed motor vehicle dealer within any 12-month period for the purpose of selling or advertising the sale of such used motor vehicles pursuant to § 46.2-1516 .

C. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any law-enforcement officer or agency, local zoning official, or the owner or lessee of any real property upon which a vehicle is displayed or parked in violation of this section for longer than 48 consecutive hours after a notice on a form approved by the Board has been affixed or placed on the vehicle by a law-enforcement officer or agency, Board representative, local zoning official, or the owner or lessee of the real property upon which the vehicle is displayed or parked, may have any such vehicle towed from such real property and stored at the expense of the owner or lessee of such vehicle and may then dispose of such vehicle as provided in § 46.2-1203 .

D. The provisions of this section shall not be deemed to eliminate, change, or supersede the requirement for any person to obtain a license under this chapter if such person engages in any conduct or activity for which a license is required under this chapter.

E. Violations of subsection A are punishable as a Class 4 misdemeanor.

2008, c. 168 ; 2018, cc. 122 , 123 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-660 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 5 / Section 46.2-660
Operating vehicles in business in Commonwealth
Status: in_force

Every nonresident, including any foreign corporation, conducting business in the Commonwealth and owning and regularly operating in such business any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer in the Commonwealth shall be required to register the vehicle and pay the same fees required for registration of similar vehicles owned by residents of the Commonwealth.

Code 1950, § 46-121; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-136; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1527.3 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 3.1 / Section 46.2-1527.3
Recovery from Fund, generally
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, whenever any person is awarded a final judgment in a court of competent jurisdiction in the Commonwealth for (i) any loss or damage in connection with the purchase or lease of a motor vehicle by reason of any fraud practiced on him or fraudulent representation made to him by a licensed or registered motor vehicle dealer participating in the Motor Vehicle Transaction Recovery Fund or one of a dealer's salespersons acting for the dealer or within the scope of his employment; (ii) any loss or damage by reason of the violation by a dealer or salesperson participating in the Motor Vehicle Transaction Recovery Fund of any of the provisions of this chapter; or (iii) any loss or damage resulting from a breach of an extended service contract, as that term is defined in § 59.1-435 , for a motor vehicle by a licensed or registered motor vehicle dealer participating in the Motor Vehicle Transaction Recovery Fund, the judgment creditor may file a verified claim with the Board, requesting payment from the Fund of the amount unpaid on the judgment subject to the following conditions:

1. The claim shall be filed with the Board no sooner than 30 days and no later than 12 months after the judgment becomes final along with the evidence of compliance with subdivision 3 below.

2. The Board shall consider for payment claims submitted by retail purchasers of motor vehicles, and for purchases of motor vehicles by licensed or registered motor vehicle dealers who contribute to the Fund. The Board shall also consider for payment claims submitted by lessees of motor vehicles leased from licensed or registered motor vehicle dealers who contribute to the Fund.

3. If the final judgment from a court of competent jurisdiction includes, as part of the judgment, an award of attorney fees and court costs, the Fund may include those in its payment of the claim if (i) the claimant had previously submitted to the trial court a detailed and itemized affidavit by counsel for the judgment creditor seeking such fees and costs, including a breakdown of the hours worked and the subject matter of those hours; (ii) said itemized affidavit formed the basis of the court's award of such fees; and (iii) a copy of such affidavit is provided to the Board with the judgment creditor's claim. If the award of attorney fees and costs by the trial court was not based on a detailed and itemized affidavit from counsel for the judgment creditor with a breakdown of the hours worked, then the Board may review and limit any claim for attorney fees to those attorney fees directly attributable to that portion of the final judgment that is determined to be a compensable claim by the Board against the Fund, and the Board may require a detailed itemization from counsel before considering such claim for attorney fees.

1994, c. 478 ; 1995, cc. 767 , 816 ; 1998, c. 325 ; 2003, c. 331 ; 2007, c. 826 ; 2015, c. 615 ; 2026, c. 837 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-621 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 2 / Section 46.2-621
Application for certificate of title
Status: in_force

The owner of a vehicle, or his duly authorized attorney-in-fact, shall apply for a certificate of title in the name of the owner on appropriate forms prescribed and furnished by the Commissioner. Officers and employees of the Department are vested with the authority to administer oaths and take acknowledgments and affidavits incidental to the administration and enforcement of this section and all other laws relating to the operation of motor vehicles, the collection and refunding of taxes levied on motor fuels and sales and use tax, for which services they shall receive no compensation.

Code 1950, § 46-49; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-51; 1972, cc. 301, 378; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-330 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 4 / Section 46.2-330
Expiration and renewal of licenses; examinations required
Status: in_force

A. Every driver's license shall expire on the applicant's birthday at the end of the period of years for which a driver's license has been issued. At no time shall any driver's license be issued for more than eight years or less than five years, unless otherwise provided by law. Thereafter the driver's license shall be renewed on or before the birthday of the licensee and shall be valid for a period not to exceed eight years except as otherwise provided by law. Any driver's license issued to a person age 75 or older shall be issued for a period not to exceed five years. Notwithstanding these limitations, the Commissioner may extend the validity period of an expiring license if (i) the Department is unable to process an application for renewal due to circumstances beyond its control, (ii) the extension has been authorized under a directive from the Governor, and (iii) the license was not issued as a limited-duration driver's license under the provisions of subsection B of § 46.2-328.1 . However, in no event shall the validity period be extended more than 90 days per occurrence of such conditions. In determining the number of years for which a driver's license shall be renewed, the Commissioner shall take into consideration the examinations, conditions, requirements, and other criteria provided under this title that relate to the issuance of a license to operate a vehicle. Any driver's license issued to a person required to register pursuant to Chapter 9 (§ 9.1-900 et seq.) of Title 9.1 shall expire on the applicant's birthday in years which the applicant attains an age equally divisible by five.

B. Within one year prior to the date shown on the driver's license as the date of expiration, the Department shall send notice, to the holder thereof, at the address shown on the records of the Department in its driver's license file, that his license will expire on a date specified therein, whether he must be reexamined, and when he may be reexamined. Nonreceipt of the notice shall not extend the period of validity of the driver's license beyond its expiration date. The license holder may request the Department to send such renewal notice to an email or other electronic address, upon provision of such address to the Department.

Any driver's license may be renewed by application after the applicant has taken and successfully completed those parts of the examination provided for in §§ 46.2-311 , 46.2-325 , and the Virginia Commercial Driver's License Act (§ 46.2-341.1 et seq.), including vision and written tests, other than the parts of the examination requiring the applicant to drive a motor vehicle. All drivers applying in person for renewal of a license shall take and successfully complete the examination each renewal year. Every applicant for a renewal shall appear in person before the Department, unless specifically notified by the Department that renewal may be accomplished in another manner as provided in the notice. Applicants who are required to appear in person before the Department to apply for a renewal may also be required to present proof of identity, legal presence, residency, and social security number or non-work authorized status.

C. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the Commissioner, in his discretion, may require any applicant for renewal to be fully examined as provided in §§ 46.2-311 and 46.2-325 and the Virginia Commercial Driver's License Act (§ 46.2-341.1 et seq.). Furthermore, if the applicant is less than 75 years old, the Commissioner may waive the vision examination for any applicant for renewal of a driver's license that is not a commercial driver's license and the requirement for the taking of the written test as provided in subsection B of this section, § 46.2-325 , and the Virginia Commercial Driver's License Act (§ 46.2-341.1 et seq.). However, in no case shall there be any waiver of the vision examination for applicants for renewal of a commercial driver's license or of the knowledge test required by the Virginia Commercial Driver's License Act for the hazardous materials endorsement on a commercial driver's license. No driver's license or learner's permit issued to any person who is 75 years old or older shall be renewed unless the applicant for renewal appears in person and either (i) passes a vision examination or (ii) presents a report of a vision examination, made within 90 days prior thereto by an ophthalmologist or optometrist, indicating that the applicant's vision meets or exceeds the standards contained in § 46.2-311 .

D. Every applicant for renewal of a driver's license, whether renewal shall or shall not be dependent on any examination of the applicant, shall appear in person before the Department to apply for renewal, unless specifically notified by the Department that renewal may be accomplished in another manner as provided in the notice.

E. This section shall not modify the provisions of § 46.2-221.2 .

F. 1. The Department shall electronically transmit application information, including a photograph, to the Department of State Police, in a format approved by the State Police, for comparison with information contained in the Virginia Criminal Information Network and National Crime Information Center Convicted Sexual Offender Registry files, at the time of the renewal of a driver's license. Whenever it appears from the records of the State Police that a person has failed to comply with the duty to register, reregister, or verify his registration information pursuant to Chapter 9 (§ 9.1-900 et seq.) of Title 9.1, the State Police shall promptly investigate and, if there is probable cause to believe a violation has occurred, obtain a warrant or assist in obtaining an indictment charging a violation of § 18.2-472.1 in the jurisdiction in which the person last registered, reregistered, or verified his registration information or in the jurisdiction where the person made application for licensure. The Department of State Police shall electronically transmit to the Department, in a format approved by the Department, for each person required to register pursuant to Chapter 9 of Title 9.1, registry information consisting of the person's name, all aliases that he has used or under which he may have been known, his date of birth, and his social security number as set out in § 9.1-903 .

2. For each person required to register pursuant to Chapter 9 of Title 9.1, the Department may not waive the requirement that each such person shall appear for each renewal or the requirement to obtain a photograph in accordance with subsection C of § 46.2-323 .

1968, c. 642, § 46.1-380.1; 1975, c. 24; 1976, c. 48; 1984, c. 780; 1989, cc. 705, 727; 1993, cc. 471, 501; 1997, c. 486 ; 2001, cc. 659 , 665 ; 2003, c. 333 ; 2004, cc. 112 , 218 , 975 ; 2005, c. 302 ; 2006, cc. 857 , 914 ; 2008, cc. 487 , 866 ; 2009, c. 872 ; 2011, cc. 57 , 70 ; 2012, cc. 215 , 222 ; 2014, c. 282 ; 2016, c. 368 ; 2018, c. 300 ; 2020, cc. 829 , 1227 , 1246 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-682 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-682
Tractors, rollers, and other machinery used for highway purposes
Status: in_force

Tractors, rollers, and other machinery used for highway purposes need not be registered under this chapter.

Code 1950, § 46-46; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-47; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2011 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-2011
Considerations for determination of issuance of license or certificate
Status: in_force

In determining whether a license or certificate required by this chapter shall be granted, the Department may, among other things, consider the applicant's experience, qualifications, character, fitness, financial responsibility, and compliance with the requirements of this chapter.

Code 1950, § 56-282; 1979, c. 609; 1995, cc. 744 , 803 ; 2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1052 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-1052
Tinting films, signs, decals, and stickers on windshields, etc.; penalties
Status: in_force

A. As used in this article, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Front side windows" means those windows located adjacent to and forward of the driver's seat.

"Holographic effect" means a picture or image that may remain constant or change as the viewing angle is changed.

"Multipurpose passenger vehicle" means any motor vehicle that is (i) designed to carry no more than 10 persons and (ii) constructed either on a truck chassis or with special features for occasional off-road use.

"Prism effect" means a visual, iridescent, or rainbow-like effect that separates light into various colored components that may change depending on viewing angle.

"Rear side windows" means those windows located to the rear of the driver's seat.

"Rear window" or "rear windows" means those windows that are located to the rear of the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle and that are approximately parallel to the windshield.

B. Except as otherwise provided in this article or permitted by federal law, it shall be unlawful for any person to operate any motor vehicle on a highway with any sign, poster, colored or tinted film, sun-shading material, or other colored material on the windshield, front or rear side windows, or rear windows of such motor vehicle. This provision, however, shall not apply to any certificate or other paper required by law or permitted by the Superintendent to be placed on a motor vehicle's windshield or window.

The size of stickers or decals used by counties, cities, and towns in lieu of license plates shall be in compliance with regulations promulgated by the Superintendent. Such stickers shall be affixed on the windshield at a location designated by the Superintendent.

C. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, whenever a motor vehicle is equipped with a mirror on each side of such vehicle, so located as to reflect to the driver of such vehicle a view of the highway for at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle, any or all of the following shall be lawful:

1. To drive a motor vehicle equipped with one optically grooved clear plastic right-angle rear view lens attached to one rear window of such motor vehicle, not exceeding 18 inches in diameter in the case of a circular lens or not exceeding 11 inches by 14 inches in the case of a rectangular lens, which enables the driver of the motor vehicle to view below the line of sight as viewed through the rear window;

2. To have affixed to the rear side windows, rear window or windows of a motor vehicle any sticker or stickers, regardless of size; or

3. To drive a motor vehicle when the driver's clear view of the highway through the rear window or windows is otherwise obstructed.

D. Except as provided in § 46.2-1053 , but notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, no sun-shading or tinting film may be applied or affixed to any window of a motor vehicle unless such motor vehicle is equipped with a mirror on each side of such motor vehicle, so located as to reflect to the driver of the vehicle a view of the highway for at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle, and the sun-shading or tinting film is applied or affixed in accordance with the following:

1. No sun-shading or tinting films may be applied or affixed to the rear side windows or rear window or windows of any motor vehicle operated on the highways of the Commonwealth that reduce the total light transmittance of such window to less than 35 percent;

2. No sun-shading or tinting films may be applied or affixed to the front side windows of any motor vehicle operated on the highways of the Commonwealth that reduce total light transmittance of such window to less than 50 percent;

3. No sun-shading or tinting films shall be applied or affixed to any window of a motor vehicle that (i) have a reflectance of light exceeding 20 percent or (ii) produce a holographic or prism effect.

Any person who operates a motor vehicle on the highways of the Commonwealth with sun-shading or tinting films that (i) have a total light transmittance less than that required by subdivisions 1 and 2, (ii) have a reflectance of light exceeding 20 percent, or (iii) produce holographic or prism effects is guilty of a traffic infraction but shall not be awarded any demerit points by the Commissioner for the violation.

Any person or firm who applies or affixes to the windows of any motor vehicle in Virginia sun-shading or tinting films that (i) reduce the light transmittance to levels less than that allowed in subdivisions 1 and 2, (ii) have a reflectance of light exceeding 20 percent, or (iii) produce holographic or prism effects is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor for the first offense and of a Class 2 misdemeanor for any subsequent offense.

E. The Division of Purchases and Supply, pursuant to § 2.2-1112 , shall determine the proper standards for equipment or devices used to measure light transmittance through windows of motor vehicles. Law-enforcement officers shall use only such equipment or devices to measure light transmittance through windows that meet the standards established by the Division. Such measurements made by law-enforcement officers shall be given a tolerance of minus seven percentage points.

F. No film or darkening material may be applied on the windshield except to replace the sunshield in the uppermost area as installed by the manufacturer of the vehicle. However, clear film may be applied to a windshield, so long as it is maintained in a condition consistent with 49 C.F.R. § 571.205, Standard No. 205, Glazing Materials.

G. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the affixing to the rear window of a motor vehicle of a single sticker no larger than 20 square inches if such sticker is totally contained within the lower five inches of the glass of the rear window, nor shall subsection C apply to a motor vehicle to which but one such sticker is so affixed.

H. Nothing in this section shall prohibit applying to the rear side windows or rear window of any multipurpose passenger vehicle or pickup truck sun-shading or tinting films that reduce the total light transmittance of such window or windows below 35 percent.

I. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, sun-shading material which was applied or installed prior to July 1, 1987, in a manner and on which windows not then in violation of Virginia law, shall continue to be lawful, provided that it can be shown by appropriate receipts that such material was installed prior to July 1, 1987.

J. Where a person is convicted within one year of a second or subsequent violation of this section involving the operation of the same vehicle having a tinted or smoked windshield, the court, in addition to any other penalty, may order the person so convicted to remove such tinted or smoked windshield from the vehicle.

K. The provisions of this section shall not apply to law-enforcement vehicles.

L. The provisions of this section shall not apply to the rear windows or rear side windows of any emergency medical services vehicle used to transport patients.

M. The provisions of subdivisions D 1, 2, and 3 shall not apply to vehicles operated in the performance of private security duties by a security canine handler as defined in § 9.1-138 and licensed in accordance with § 9.1-139 .

N. The provisions of subdivision D 1 shall not apply to sight-seeing carriers as defined in § 46.2-2000 and contract passenger carriers as defined in § 46.2-2000 .

O. For any summons issued for a violation of this section, the court may, in its discretion, dismiss the summons, where proof of compliance with this section is provided to the court on or before the court date.

P. No law-enforcement officer shall stop a motor vehicle for a violation of this section. No evidence discovered or obtained as the result of a stop in violation of this subsection, including evidence discovered or obtained with the operator's consent, shall be admissible in any trial, hearing, or other proceeding.

Code 1950, § 46-295; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-291; 1970, c. 16; 1978, c. 233; 1981, cc. 17, 626; 1985, c. 160; 1987, cc. 298, 315; 1988, c. 751; 1989, c. 727; 1991, cc. 100, 328; 1993, c. 808; 1994, c. 118 ; 1997, cc. 744 , 880 ; 1998, c. 133 ; 1999, c. 75 ; 2004, c. 613 ; 2008, c. 189 ; 2015, cc. 502 , 503 ; 2017, c. 670 ; 2019, c. 623 ; 2020, Sp. Sess. I, cc. 45 , 51 ; 2026, c. 894 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1131 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 17 / Section 46.2-1131
Penalty for violation of weight limits
Status: in_force

A. Any person violating any weight limit as provided in this chapter or any permit issued by the Department or its designee or by local authorities pursuant to this article shall be subject to a civil penalty of $25 and a processing fee of $20 in addition to any liquidated damages and weighing fees imposed by this article. Upon collection by the Department, except as provided in § 46.2-1138 , civil penalties shall be paid to the Literary Fund, but processing fees shall be paid to the state treasury and, beginning July 1, 1990, shall be set aside as a special fund to be used to meet the expenses of the Department of Motor Vehicles. In addition, liquidated damages and weighing fees shall be distributed as provided in §§ 46.2-1135 and 46.2-1137 , respectively, except as provided in § 46.2-1138 .

B. The penalties, damages, and fees specified in this section shall be in addition to any other liability which may be legally fixed against the owner, operator, or other person charged with the weight violation for damage to a highway or bridge attributable to such weight violation.

C. For any violation described in subsection A in which the overweight vehicle is eligible for a permit pursuant to subsection A of § 46.2-1143 and such vehicle is operating without such a permit, the owner or lessee of such vehicle shall be the person charged with such weight violation.

Code 1950, § 46-335.1; 1956, c. 215; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-341; 1972, c. 439; 1978, cc. 294, 605; 1986, c. 588; 1987, c. 372; 1988, c. 11; 1989, c. 727; 1990, c. 418; 2003, c. 314 ; 2026, c. 1100 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1577 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 8 / Section 46.2-1577
Appeals from actions of the Board
Status: in_force

Any person aggrieved by the action of the Board in refusing to grant or renew a license or certificate of dealer registration or qualification issued under this chapter, or by any other action of the Board which is alleged to be improper, unreasonable, or unlawful under the provisions of this chapter is entitled to judicial review in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.).

1988, c. 865, § 46.1-550.5:36; 1989, c. 727; 1990, c. 197; 1995, cc. 767 , 816 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2001.3 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-2001.3
Application; notice requirements
Status: in_force

A. Applications for a license, permit, certificate, or identification marker or renewal of a license, permit, certificate, or identification marker under this chapter shall be made to the Department and contain such information and exhibits as the Department shall require. Such information shall include, in the application or otherwise, the matters set forth in § 46.2-2011.24 as grounds for denying licenses, permits, and certificates, and other pertinent matters requisite for the safeguarding of the public interest.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the Commissioner may require all or certain applications for a license, permit, certificate, or identification marker to be filed electronically.

B. An applicant for any original certificate of public convenience and necessity issued under this chapter, or any request for a transfer of such certificate, unless otherwise provided, shall cause a notice of such application, on the form and in the manner prescribed by the Department, on every motor carrier holding the same type of certificate issued by the Department and operating or providing service within the area proposed to be served by the applicant.

C. For any application for original certificate or license issued under this chapter, or any request for a transfer of such certificate or license, the Department shall publish a notice of such application on the Department's public website in the form and in the manner prescribed by the Department.

D. An applicant for any original certificate of public convenience and necessity issued under this chapter, or any request for a transfer of such certificate of public convenience and necessity, shall cause a publication of a summary of the application to be made in a newspaper having a general circulation in the proposed area to be served or area where the primary business office is located within such time as the Department may prescribe.

2001, c. 596 ; 2002, c. 870 ; 2011, cc. 881 , 889 ; 2012, cc. 22 , 111 ; 2013, cc. 165 , 582 ; 2015, cc. 2 , 3 ; 2017, cc. 694 , 708 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-305 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 2 / Section 46.2-305
Exemption of persons in armed services
Status: in_force

Every person in the armed services of the United States, when furnished with a driver's license, and when operating an official motor vehicle in such service, shall be exempt from licensure under this chapter.

Code 1950, § 46-350; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-354; 1984, c. 780; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-458 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 15 / Section 46.2-458
Interpleader to determine rights in deposits; other proceedings
Status: in_force

The Commissioner and the State Treasurer, or either, may proceed in equity by bill of interpleader for the determination of any dispute as to ownership of or rights in any deposit held by the State Treasurer pursuant to this chapter and may have recourse to any other appropriate proceeding for determination of any question that arises as to their rights or liabilities or as to the rights or liabilities of the Commonwealth under this chapter.

Code 1950, § 46-478; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-489; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1075.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-1075.1
Tampering with gross vehicle weight ratings; penalty
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person willfully to remove, alter, deface, or tamper with any number, plate, bracket, sticker, decal, indication, or other device indicating the manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of any vehicle which (i) has a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of 15,000 pounds or less and (ii) has been modified by alteration of its height from the ground. Violation of this section shall constitute a Class 3 misdemeanor.

1991, c. 193.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1033 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 3 / Section 46.2-1033
Indicator light required
Status: in_force

Every motor vehicle operated on a highway shall be equipped with a working indicator light that indicates to the driver when the high beam of the headlights is being used.

Code 1950, § 46-278; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-271; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-459 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 15 / Section 46.2-459
When other proof of financial responsibility required; suspension of license pending furnishing of proof required
Status: in_force

Whenever any proof of financial responsibility filed by any person under this chapter no longer fulfills the purpose for which required, the Commissioner shall require other proof of financial responsibility as required by this chapter and shall suspend the person's driver's license, registration cards and license plates pending the furnishing of proof as required.

Nonpayment of the assessment provided for in § 46.2-455 shall also be reason for suspension of the driver's license, registration cards and license plates of a person offering cash or securities as proof of financial responsibility under this chapter. The suspension shall be promptly initiated by the Commissioner on receipt of written notice of nonpayment of the assessment from the State Treasurer and shall take effect ten days from the date of a written notice sent by the Commissioner to the person by first-class mail, the notice to notify the person of the forthcoming suspension if payment is not received within the ten-day period.

Code 1950, § 46-479; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-490; 1984, c. 780; 1986, c. 16; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1573.24 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 7.3 / Section 46.2-1573.24
Late model and factory repurchase franchises
Status: in_force

Franchised late model or factory repurchase trailer dealers shall have the same rights and obligations as provided for franchised new trailer dealers in this article, mutatis mutandis.

1996, cc. 1043 , 1052 , § 46.2-1992.76; 2015, c. 615 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-481 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 17 / Section 46.2-481
Binder or endorsement in lieu of policy
Status: in_force

Insurance carriers authorized to issue policies as provided in this chapter may, pending the issuance of the policy, execute an agreement to be known as a binder, which shall not be valid beyond sixty days from the date it becomes effective, or may, in lieu of a policy, issue an endorsement to an existing policy, each of which shall be construed to provide indemnity or protection in like manner and to the same extent as a formal policy. The provisions of this chapter apply to these binders and endorsements.

Code 1950, § 46-500; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-513; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-214.3 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle I / Chapter 2 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-214.3
Discount for multiyear registration
Status: in_force

A. Pursuant to subsection C of § 46.2-646 , for each motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer registered, the Commissioner may offer, at his discretion, a discount for multiyear registrations of such vehicles. The discount shall be equal to $1 for each year of the multiyear registration or fraction thereof. The discount shall not be applicable to any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer registered under the International Registration Plan. When this option is offered and chosen by the registrant, all annual and 12-month fees due at the time of registration shall be multiplied by the number of years or fraction thereof that the vehicle will be registered.

B. In addition to the discount authorized in subsection A, for the renewal of registration of each motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer pursuant to § 46.2-646 , the Commissioner shall offer a discount for renewal when such registration renewal is conducted using the Internet. The discount shall be equal to $1. The discount shall not apply to any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer registered under the International Registration Plan.

2008, c. 866 ; 2020, cc. 1230 , 1275 ; 2023, c. 538 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1543 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 4 / Section 46.2-1543
Use of old license plates and registration number on another vehicle
Status: in_force

An owner who sells or transfers a registered motor vehicle may have the license plates and the registration number transferred to another vehicle titled in the owner's name according to the provisions of Chapter 6 (§ 46.2-600 et seq.), which is in a like vehicle category as specified in § 46.2-694 and requires an identical registration fee, on application to the Department accompanied by a fee of $2 or, if the other vehicle requires a greater registration fee than that for which the license plates were assigned, on the payment of a fee of $2 and the amount of the difference in registration fees between the two vehicles, all such transfers to be in accordance with the regulations of the Department. All fees collected under this section shall be paid by the Commissioner into the state treasury and shall be set aside as a special fund to be used to meet the expenses of the Department. For purposes of this section, a motor vehicle dealer licensed by the Board may be authorized to act as an agent of the Department for the purpose of receiving, processing, and approving applications from its customers for assignment of license plates and registration numbers pursuant to this section, using the forms and following the procedures prescribed by the Department. The Commissioner, on determining that the provisions of this section or the directions of the Department are not being complied with by a dealer, may suspend, after a hearing, the authority of the dealer to receive, process, and approve the assignment of license plates and registration numbers pursuant to this section.

The provisions of this section shall also apply to watercraft trailers and watercraft trailer dealers.

1988, c. 865, § 46.1-550.5:1.1; 1989, c. 727; 1995, cc. 767 , 816 ; 2015, c. 615 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2076 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-2076
Application; notice requirements
Status: in_force

In addition to the requirements of § 46.2-2001.3 , an applicant for a common carrier certificate of public convenience and necessity issued under this article shall cause a notice of such application, on the form and in the manner prescribed by the Department, on the mayor or principal officer of any city or town and on the chairman of the board of supervisors of every county into or through which the applicant may desire to provide service.

2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-749.14 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-749.14
Special license plates; supporters of greyhound adoption programs
Status: in_force

On receipt of an application therefor, the Commissioner shall issue special license plates to supporters of greyhound adoption programs.

1999, c. 907 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1586 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-1586
Recertification requirements
Status: in_force

A. To become recertified, an independent dealer-operator shall (i) complete one live instructor-led course certified by the Board with at least four hours of instruction and pass an examination that may be administered in person or virtually by the course provider or (ii) pass the independent dealer-operator recertification exam administered by the Department. Such course may be attended in person or virtually, provided that any virtual participation shall require the participant to view the instructor and be viewed by the instructor throughout the course. The Board shall ensure that any such course is available at least monthly.

B. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any independent dealer-operator who completes a training program approved by the Executive Director and administered by a dealer that employs at least 50 licensed salespersons in the Commonwealth. Any such training program shall not be subject to the requirements of §§ 46.2-1587 and 46.2-1588 .

2022, c. 574 ; 2024, cc. 84 , 85 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2118 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 21 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-2118
Issuance, expiration, and renewal of permit and certificate
Status: in_force

All permits and certificates of fitness issued under this chapter shall be issued for a period of 12 consecutive months except, at the discretion of the Department, the periods may be adjusted as necessary. Such permits and certificates shall expire if not renewed annually. Such expiration shall be effective 30 days after the Department has provided the permittee or certificate holder notice of nonrenewal. If the permit or certificate is renewed within 30 days after notice of nonrenewal, then the permit or certificate shall not expire.

2001, c. 596 ; 2011, cc. 881 , 889 ; 2017, cc. 790 , 815 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-637 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 2 / Section 46.2-637
Security interests subsequently created
Status: in_force

Security interests, other than those in inventory held for sale, in motor vehicles, trailers, or semitrailers created by the voluntary act of the owner after the original issue of a certificate of title to the owner must be shown on the certificate of title. In such cases, the owner shall file an application with the Department on a form furnished for that purpose, setting forth the security interests and whatever additional information the Department may deem necessary. If satisfied that it is proper for the security interest to be recorded, when the certificate of title covering the motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer, is surrendered, the Department shall issue a new certificate of title, showing security interests in the order of their priority according to the date of the filing of the application. For the purpose of recording a subsequent security interest, the Commissioner may require any secured party to deliver to him the certificate of title. The new certificate shall be sent or delivered to the secured party from whom the prior certificate was obtained. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a security interest in a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer which is inventory held for sale shall be perfected only as provided in §§ 8.9A-301 through 8.9A-527 .

Code 1950, § 46-70; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-70; 1966, c. 558; 1989, c. 727; 2006, c. 896 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-317 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 3 / Section 46.2-317
Persons making false statement in application
Status: in_force

The Department shall not issue, for a period of one year, a driver's license or learner's permit when the records of the Department clearly show to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that the person has made a willful material false statement on any application for a driver's license.

Code 1950, § 46-358.1; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-363; 1984, c. 780; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-851 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-851
Signals prior to moving standing vehicles into traffic
Status: in_force

Drivers of vehicles stopped at the curb or edge of a highway, before moving such vehicles, shall signal their intentions to move into traffic, as provided in this article, before turning in the direction the vehicle will proceed from the curb.

Code 1950, § 46-237; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-220; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-892 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-892
Rural mail carriers stopping on highways
Status: in_force

The provisions of § 46.2-888 shall not apply to any rural mail carrier stopping on the highway while collecting or delivering the United States mail at a mailbox, provided there is lettered on the back of the vehicle operated by such rural mail carrier, or lettered on a sign securely attached to and displayed at the rear of such vehicle, in letters at least four inches in height the following words and groups of words, which may be in any order:

CAUTION

FREQUENT STOPS

U.S. MAIL

Additionally, the provisions of § 46.2-888 shall not apply to such rural mail carrier so stopping if, in lieu of such sign, the vehicle has, and is using, supplemental turn signals mounted at each side of the roof of the vehicle. Between the lights on the assembly shall be mounted a sign with the words "U.S. Mail", or at least one flashing amber warning light, mounted on the roof or rear of the vehicle, to be used in conjunction with a rear-mounted "U.S. Mail" sign.

The roof-mounted "U.S. Mail" sign required by the foregoing provisions of this section shall be yellow with black letters at least four inches in height, and the lights shall be of the type approved by the Superintendent of State Police. The lettered sign shall be displayed only when the vehicle is engaged in the collection or delivery of the United States mail.

Nothing in this section shall be construed to relieve any such mail carrier from civil liability for such stopping on any highway if he is negligent in so doing, and if the negligence proximately contributes to any personal injury or property damage resulting therefrom.

Code 1950, § 46-256.1; 1954, c. 433; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-249; 1962, c. 382; 1989, c. 727; 1998, c. 411 ; 2004, c. 359 ; 2005, c. 140 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-341.7 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 6.1 / Section 46.2-341.7
Commercial driver's license required; penalty
Status: in_force

A. No person shall drive a commercial motor vehicle in the Commonwealth unless he has been issued a commercial driver's license or commercial learner's permit and unless such license or permit authorizes the operation of the type and class of vehicle so driven, and unless such license or permit is valid.

B. Every driver of a commercial motor vehicle, while driving such vehicle in the Commonwealth, shall have in his immediate possession the commercial driver's license or commercial learner's permit authorizing the operation of such vehicle and shall make it available to any law-enforcement officer upon request. Failure to comply with this subsection shall be punishable as provided in § 46.2-104 .

C. No person shall drive a commercial vehicle in Virginia in violation of any of the restrictions or limitations stated on his commercial driver's license or commercial learner's permit. A violation of the subsection shall constitute a Class 2 misdemeanor.

1989, c. 705, § 46.1-372.7; 1993, c. 70; 2013, cc. 165 , 582 ; 2015, c. 258 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1094 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 12 / Section 46.2-1094
Occupants of seats of motor vehicles required to use safety lap belts and shoulder harnesses; penalty
Status: in_force

A. Any driver, and any other person at least 18 years of age and occupying a seat, of a motor vehicle equipped or required by the provisions of this title to be equipped with a safety belt system, consisting of lap belts, shoulder harnesses, combinations thereof or similar devices, shall wear the appropriate safety belt system at all times while the motor vehicle is in motion on any public highway. A passenger under the age of 18 years, however, shall be protected as required by the provisions of Article 13 (§ 46.2-1095 et seq.) of this chapter.

B. This section shall not apply to:

1. Any person for whom a licensed physician determines that the use of such safety belt system would be impractical by reason of such person's physical condition or other medical reason, provided the person so exempted carries on his person or in the vehicle a signed written statement of the physician identifying the exempted person and stating the grounds for the exemption; or

2. Any law-enforcement officer transporting persons in custody or traveling in circumstances which render the wearing of such safety belt system impractical; or

3. Any person while driving a motor vehicle and performing the duties of a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service; or

4. Any person driving a motor vehicle and performing the duties of a rural newspaper route carrier, newspaper bundle hauler or newspaper rack carrier; or

5. Drivers of and passengers in taxicabs; or

6. Personnel of commercial or municipal vehicles while actually engaged in the collection or delivery of goods or services, including but not limited to solid waste, where such collection or delivery requires the personnel to exit and enter the cab of the vehicle with such frequency and regularity so as to render the use of safety belt systems impractical and the safety benefits derived therefrom insignificant. Such personnel shall resume the use of safety belt systems when actual collection or delivery has ceased or when the vehicle is in transit to or from a point of final disposition or disposal, including but not limited to solid waste facilities, terminals, or other location where the vehicle may be principally garaged; or

7. Any person driving a motor vehicle and performing the duties of a utility meter reader; or

8. Law-enforcement officers driving motor vehicles to enforce laws governing motor vehicle parking; or

9. Emergency medical services personnel, as defined in § 32.1-111.1 , while in the patient compartment of an emergency medical services vehicle, as defined in § 32.1-111.1 , providing necessary care to a patient. However, for seats that are subject to the requirements of this section, such personnel shall use safety belt systems in a manner consistent with the requirements of this section while the vehicle is in motion and such personnel is not providing necessary care to a patient. For purposes of this subdivision, "necessary care" means the administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the administration of artificial ventilation, the administration of medication, or the treatment and reassessment of patients.

C. Any person who violates this section shall be subject to a civil penalty of twenty-five dollars to be paid into the state treasury and credited to the Literary Fund. No assignment of demerit points shall be made under Article 19 of Chapter 3 (§ 46.2-489 et seq.) of this title and no court costs shall be assessed for violations of this section.

D. A violation of this section shall not constitute negligence, be considered in mitigation of damages of whatever nature, be admissible in evidence or be the subject of comment by counsel in any action for the recovery of damages arising out of the operation, ownership, or maintenance of a motor vehicle, nor shall anything in this section change any existing law, rule, or procedure pertaining to any such civil action.

E. A violation of this section may be charged on the uniform traffic summons form.

F. No law-enforcement officer shall stop a motor vehicle for a violation of this section. No evidence discovered or obtained as the result of a stop in violation of this subsection, including evidence discovered or obtained with the operator's consent, shall be admissible in any trial, hearing, or other proceeding.

G. The governing body of the City of Lynchburg may adopt an ordinance not inconsistent with the provisions of this section, requiring the use of safety belt systems. The penalty for violating any such ordinance shall not exceed a fine or civil penalty of twenty-five dollars.

1987, c. 538, § 46.1-309.2; 1988, cc. 326, 344; 1989, c. 727; 1993, c. 591; 1997, c. 793 ; 2007, c. 813 ; 2010, c. 661 ; 2020, Sp. Sess. I, cc. 45 , 51 ; 2025, c. 414 ; 2026, c. 93 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1708 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 17 / Article 2 / Section 46.2-1708
Licenses required for school and instructors
Status: in_force

A. A Class A driver training school shall not provide entry-level driver training in the Commonwealth until it has (i) been licensed pursuant to this chapter and (ii) provided the Commissioner with its unique Training Provider Registry number issued by FMCSA pursuant to 49 C.F.R. § 380.703 in a form prescribed by the Department.

B. To become a Class A driver training school an applicant shall include with its application evidence that:

1. The curriculum used for theory instruction and behind-the-wheel training complies with the curriculum requirements prescribed by the Department;

2. The facilities used for entry-level driver training for both theory instruction and behind-the-wheel training comply with all federal and state safety requirements;

3. The instructors employed by the applicant driver training school are licensed under this section;

4. The applicant driver training school (i) uses written assessments that comply with the requirements prescribed by the Department to determine the driver trainee's proficiency in the knowledge objectives of each unit of instruction in the curriculum and (ii) requires driver trainees to achieve an overall minimum score of 80 percent for passage of the theory instruction portion of the course; and

5. The applicant driver training school instructors evaluate and document the driver trainee's proficiency in the behind-the-wheel skills in accordance with the curriculum requirements prescribed by the Department.

C. The Commissioner shall not license a behind-the-wheel instructor or theory instructor unless the applicant provides evidence that his commercial driver's license has not been disqualified, canceled, suspended, or revoked due to any of the disqualifying offenses identified in 49 C.F.R. § 383.51, unless his commercial driver's license was reinstated more than two years prior to the application date, and that he either:

1. Currently holds a commercial driver's license of the same class or higher with all endorsements necessary to operate the commercial motor vehicle for which training will be provided and has at least two years of experience driving a commercial motor vehicle requiring a commercial driver's license of the same or higher class or the same endorsement; or

2. Currently holds a commercial driver's license of the same class or higher with all endorsements necessary to operate the commercial motor vehicle for which training will be provided, and has at least two years of experience as a behind-the-wheel commercial motor vehicle instructor.

D. The Commissioner may issue an order suspending, revoking, cancelling, or denying renewal of a training provider's license, certification, or authorization to provide training effective immediately if the order is based upon the removal of the school from the federal Training Provider Registry pursuant to 49 C.F.R. § 380.723. Notice of such order shall be in writing and mailed to the training provider by registered mail to the address as shown on the training provider's most recent application and shall be considered served when mailed. Upon receipt of a request for a hearing appealing such order, the training provider shall be afforded the opportunity for a hearing as soon as practicable, but in no case later than 30 days from receipt of the hearing request. The order shall remain in effect pending the outcome of the hearing.

2019, c. 750 ; 2020, c. 546 ; 2024, cc. 107 , 121 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1527.8 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 3.1 / Section 46.2-1527.8
No waiver by the Board of disciplinary action against licensee or registrant
Status: in_force

Nothing contained in this article shall limit the authority of the Board to take disciplinary action against any licensee or registrant for any violation of this chapter or any regulation promulgated thereunder, nor shall full repayment of the amount paid from the Fund on a licensee's or registrant's account nullify or modify the effect of any disciplinary action against that licensee or registrant for any violation.

1994, c. 478 ; 1995, cc. 767 , 816 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1230 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 12 / Article 3 / Section 46.2-1230
Authority of counties, cities, and towns to issue parking permits
Status: in_force

The governing body of any county, city, or town may by ordinance provide for the issuance of permits for motor vehicles parking on public streets, to set the rates for the permits, and to set the term of validity of the permits. In setting the rates, the governing body may differentiate between motor vehicles registered in the political subdivision issuing the permit and other motor vehicles.

1972, c. 819, § 46.1-252.01; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-749.49:1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-749.49:1
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2009, c. 755 , cl. 2.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-489 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 19 / Section 46.2-489
Regulations; appeals
Status: in_force

The Commissioner may, subject to the provisions of § 46.2-203 , promulgate regulations which he deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this article.

Any person receiving an order of the Commissioner to suspend or revoke his driver's license or licensing privilege or to require attendance at a driver improvement clinic or placing him on probation may, within thirty days from the date of the order, file a petition of appeal in accordance with § 46.2-410 .

1974, c. 453, § 46.1-514.2; 1989, c. 727; 1995, c. 672 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1116 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 16 / Section 46.2-1116
Vehicles having more than one trailer, etc., attached thereto; exceptions
Status: in_force

Except as provided in this section and § 46.2-1117 , no motor vehicle shall be driven on a highway while drawing or having attached thereto more than one motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer unless such vehicle is being operated under a special permit from the Commissioner of Highways. This limitation, however, shall not apply between sunrise and sunset to farm trailers or semitrailers being moved from one farm to another farm owned or operated by the same person within a radius of 10 miles. This limitation also shall not apply to a combination of vehicles coupled together by a saddle mount device used to transport motor vehicles in a drive-away service when not more than two saddle mounts are used. Vehicles coupled together by not more than three saddle mounts shall not exceed 75 feet when operated on any primary highway as designated by the Commonwealth Transportation Board and shall not exceed 97 feet when operated on the National Network of interstate and primary highways as designated under 23 CFR 658.5, as amended. Use of saddle mounts as provided in this section shall be in conformity with safety regulations adopted by the federal Department of Transportation.

The Commissioner of Highways shall designate reasonable access to terminals and facilities for food, fuel, repairs, and rest.

The governing body of any city may by ordinance permit motor vehicles to be driven on the highways of their respective cities while drawing or having attached thereto more than one other vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer.

Code 1950, § 46-331; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-335; 1962, c. 575; 1964, c. 286; 1966, c. 373; 1974, c. 580; 1978, c. 254; 1983, c. 515; 1985, c. 426; 1986, c. 72; 1989, c. 727; 1994, c. 456 ; 1996, c. 340 ; 2010, c. 24 ; 2013, cc. 585 , 646 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-212 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle I / Chapter 2 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-212
Notice given for records supplied
Status: in_force

Whenever any records held by the Department are supplied to third persons, the third persons shall notify the subject of the records that the records have been supplied and shall send to the subject a copy of the records.

As used in this section "records supplied to third persons" means all abstracts of operating records held by the Department in which the person who is the subject of the records is identified or identifiable, where the records are made available, in any way, to a person who is not the subject of the records.

This section shall not apply to records supplied to any officials, including court and police officials of the Commonwealth and of any of the counties, cities, and towns of the Commonwealth, and court and law-enforcement officials of other states and of the federal government, provided the records or information supplied is for official use; nor shall this section apply to any records supplied to any insurer or its agents unless insurance is denied or the premium charged therefor is increased either wholly or in part because of information contained in such records.

1976, c. 505, § 46.1-33.1; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-400 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 12 / Section 46.2-400
Suspension of license of person not competent to drive; restoration of license; duty of clerk of the court
Status: in_force

A. The Commissioner, on receipt of notice from a court, shall suspend the license of any person who has been legally adjudged to be incapacitated in accordance with Article 1 (§ 64.2-2000 et seq.) of Chapter 20 of Title 64.2. No driver's license shall be issued to any applicant who has previously been adjudged incapacitated and not competent to drive unless, at the time of such application, (i) the applicant has been adjudged restored to capacity by judicial decree or has a court order restoring or retaining the privilege to drive and (ii) the Department is satisfied that the applicant is competent to drive a motor vehicle with safety to persons and property pursuant to § 46.2-322 or 46.2-325 . The clerk of the court in which the adjudication is made shall send a certified copy or abstract of such adjudication to the Commissioner.

B. The Commissioner shall not suspend the license or prior privilege to drive of any person legally adjudged to be incapacitated in accordance with Article 1 (§ 64.2-2000 et seq.) of Chapter 20 of Title 64.2, where the court order specifically permits such person to retain his driver's license or the privilege to drive or to apply for such license. In such case, the clerk of the court in which the adjudication is made shall not send a copy of the order to the Commissioner. However, a court may order any person adjudicated legally incapacitated to submit to an examination pursuant to § 46.2-322 or 46.2-325 . In such case, the clerk of the court shall forward a copy of the order requiring an examination to the Department. Upon completion of the examination, the Department shall take whatever action may be appropriate and may (i) suspend the license or privilege to drive a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth, (ii) permit the examinee to retain his license or privilege to drive a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth, or (iii) issue a license subject to the restrictions authorized by § 46.2-329 .

C. Upon receipt of notice that a person has been discharged from a facility operated or licensed by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and is, in the opinion of the authorities of the facility, not competent because of mental illness, intellectual disability, alcoholism, or drug addiction to drive a motor vehicle with safety to persons or property, the Commissioner shall forthwith suspend his license; however he shall not suspend the license if the person has been adjudged competent by judicial order or decree. The Commissioner shall require any person whose license has been suspended pursuant to this subsection to submit to an examination pursuant to § 46.2-322 or 46.2-325 .

In any case in which the person's license has been suspended prior to his discharge, it shall not be returned to him unless the Commissioner is satisfied, after an examination pursuant to § 46.2-322 or 46.2-325 , that the person is competent to drive a motor vehicle with safety to persons and property.

The facility operated or licensed by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services shall send the necessary information to the Commissioner to initiate the examination process pursuant to § 46.2-322 or 46.2-325 .

D. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Department reserves the right to examine any licensed driver, any person applying for a driver's license or renewal thereof, or any person whose license has been suspended or revoked to determine his fitness to drive a motor vehicle pursuant to § 46.2-322 or 46.2-325 .

Code 1950, § 46-418; 1950, p. 949; 1954, c. 213; 1958, cc. 154, 541, § 46.1-427; 1964, c. 230; 1987, c. 413; 1988, c. 78; 1989, c. 727; 1997, c. 921 ; 2009, cc. 813 , 840 ; 2012, cc. 476 , 507 ; 2017, c. 156 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-341.5 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 6.1 / Section 46.2-341.5
Regulations consistent with Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act
Status: in_force

The Department is authorized to promulgate regulations and establish procedures to enable it to issue commercial driver's licenses, maintain and exchange driver records, and impose licensing sanctions consistent with the provisions of this article and with the minimum standards of the federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act and the federal regulations promulgated thereunder.

1989, c. 705, § 46.1-372.5.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1125 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 17 / Section 46.2-1125
Maximum tandem axle weight, generally
Status: in_force

The tandem axle weight of any vehicle or combination shall not exceed 34,000 pounds, and no one axle of such tandem unit shall exceed the weight permitted for a single axle. Furthermore, the weight imposed on the highway by two or more consecutive axles, individually attached to the vehicle and spaced not less than forty inches nor more than ninety-six inches apart, shall not exceed 34,000 pounds and no one axle of such unit shall exceed the weight permitted for a single axle.

Code 1950, § 46-334; 1952, c. 454; 1956, cc. 141, 476; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-339; 1962, c. 84; 1964, c. 354; 1974, c. 145; 1981, c. 187; 1982, c. 671; 1983, c. 515; 1987, c. 695; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-302 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-302
Driving while restoration of license is contingent on furnishing proof of financial responsibility
Status: in_force

No resident or nonresident (i) whose driver's license or learner's permit has been suspended or revoked by any court or by the Commissioner or by operation of law, pursuant to the provisions of this title or of § 18.2-271 , or who has been disqualified pursuant to the provisions of the Virginia Commercial Driver's License Act (§ 46.2-341.1 et seq.), or (ii) who has been forbidden as prescribed by law by the Commissioner, the State Corporation Commission, the Commissioner of Highways, or the Superintendent of State Police, to drive a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth shall drive any motor vehicle in the Commonwealth during any period wherein the restoration of license or privilege is contingent upon the furnishing of proof of financial responsibility, unless he has given proof of financial responsibility in the manner provided in Article 15 (§ 46.2-435 et seq.) of Chapter 3 of this title. Any person who drives a motor vehicle on the roads of the Commonwealth and has furnished proof of financial responsibility but who has failed to pay a reinstatement fee, shall be tried under § 46.2-300 .

A first offense violation of this section shall constitute a Class 2 misdemeanor. A second or subsequent violation of this section shall constitute a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Code 1950, § 46-484; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-351; 1960, cc. 157, 364; 1962, c. 302; 1980, c. 29; 1984, c. 780; 1989, cc. 705, 727; 1991, c. 118.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-876 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 8 / Section 46.2-876
Maximum speed limit for passenger vehicles towing certain trailers
Status: in_force

The maximum speed limit for passenger motor vehicles while towing utility, camping, or boat trailers not exceeding an actual gross weight of 2,500 pounds shall be the same as that for passenger motor vehicles.

Code 1950, § 46-212; 1950, p. 881; 1952, c. 666; 1954, c. 244; 1956, c. 364; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-193; 1960, c. 153; 1962, c. 307; 1964, cc. 118, 408; 1966, c. 85; 1968, c. 641; 1972, cc. 89, 546, 553, 608; 1974, c. 528; 1977, c. 577; 1978, c. 605; 1980, c. 347; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2129 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 21 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-2129
Unlawful use of registration and identification markers
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or cause to be operated on any highway in the Commonwealth any motor vehicle that (i) does not carry the proper registration and identification that this title requires, (ii) does not display an identification marker issued for such vehicle by the Department in such manner as is prescribed by the Department, or (iii) bears registration or identification markers of persons whose permit or certificate issued by the Department has been revoked, suspended, or renewal thereof denied in accordance with this chapter.

2001, c. 596 ; 2017, cc. 790 , 815 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-651 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 4 / Section 46.2-651
Trip permits; regulations; fees
Status: in_force

A. The Department may, on application on forms provided by the Department, issue a trip permit to any owner of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer which would otherwise be subject to registration plates but is not currently registered. If the vehicle operating under the permit is a vehicle designed as a property-carrying vehicle, it shall be unladen at the time of operation under the permit. The permit shall be valid for three days and shall show the registration or permit number, the date of issue, the date of expiration, the make of vehicle, the vehicle identification number, the beginning point and the point of destination. The fee for the permit shall be five dollars.

B. For vehicles to be purchased by a Virginia resident and registered in Virginia, the Department shall issue to the prospective purchaser, upon his application therefor, trip permits as provided in subsection A of this section, except that permits issued under this subsection shall not be valid unless and until the prospective purchaser receives an original bill of sale pertaining to the vehicle purchased. Permits issued under this subsection shall be valid for three days, beginning on the date of the original bill of sale, and shall be kept with the original bill of sale in the purchased vehicle at all times during the trip until the vehicle is properly registered with the Department. The Commissioner may charge a reasonable fee, adequate to recover the Department's costs, for the issuance of permits under this subsection, and may promulgate such regulations as he deems necessary or convenient in carrying out the provisions of this subsection.

1974, c. 215, § 46.1-42.1; 1976, c. 59; 1989, c. 727; 2000, c. 144 ; 2001, c. 192 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-392 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 12 / Section 46.2-392
Suspension of license or issuance of a restricted license on conviction of certain offenses; probationary conditions required; generally
Status: in_force

In addition to the penalties for careless driving and infliction of injury or death on vulnerable road users prescribed in § 46.2-816.1 , the penalties for reckless driving prescribed in § 46.2-868 , and the penalties for aggressive driving prescribed in § 46.2-868.1 , the court may suspend the driver's license issued to a person convicted of careless driving and infliction of injury or death on vulnerable road users, reckless driving, or aggressive driving for a period of not less than 10 days nor more than six months and the court shall require the convicted person to surrender his license so suspended to the court where it will be disposed of in accordance with § 46.2-398 .

Additionally, any person convicted of a reckless driving offense which the court has reason to believe is alcohol-related or drug-related may be required as a condition of probation or otherwise to enter into and successfully complete an alcohol safety action program. If the court suspends a person's driver's license for reckless driving and requires the person to enter into and successfully complete an alcohol safety action program, the Commissioner shall not reinstate the driver's license of the person until receipt of certification that the person has enrolled in and completed the alcohol safety action program.

If a person so convicted has not obtained the license required by this chapter, or is a nonresident, the court may direct in the judgment of conviction that he shall not, for a period of not less than 10 days or more than six months as may be prescribed in the judgment, drive any motor vehicle in the Commonwealth. The court or the clerk of court shall transmit the license to the Commissioner along with the report of the conviction required to be sent to the Department.

The court may, in its discretion and for good cause shown, provide that such person be issued a restricted permit to operate a motor vehicle during the period of suspension for any of the purposes set forth in subsection E of § 18.2-271.1 . The court shall order the surrender of such person's license to operate a motor vehicle to be disposed of in accordance with the provisions of § 46.2-398 and shall forward to the Commissioner a copy of its order entered pursuant to this subsection, which shall specifically enumerate the restrictions imposed and contain such information regarding the person to whom such a permit is issued as is reasonably necessary to identify such person. The court shall also provide a copy of its order to the person who may operate a motor vehicle on the order until receipt from the Commissioner of a restricted license. A copy of such order and, after receipt thereof, the restricted license shall be carried at all times while operating a motor vehicle. Any person who operates a motor vehicle in violation of any restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall be punished as provided in subsection C of § 46.2-301 . No restricted license issued pursuant to this section shall permit any person to operate a commercial motor vehicle as defined in the Virginia Commercial Driver's License Act (§ 46.2-341.1 et seq.).

Code 1950, § 46-210; 1950, p. 691; 1952, Ex. Sess., c. 16; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-422; 1981, c. 237; 1989, c. 727; 1996, c. 615 ; 2000, c. 342 ; 2001, cc. 645 , 779 ; 2004, c. 361 ; 2007, c. 432 ; 2022, cc. 506 , 507 ; 2023, cc. 561 , 562 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-745.2 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-745.2
Special license plates for persons awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
Status: in_force

On receipt of an application and written confirmation from one of the armed services that the applicant has been awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Commissioner shall issue special license plates to such persons.

For each set of plates issued under this section, the Commissioner shall charge, in addition to the prescribed cost of state license plates, an annual fee of $10.

It shall be unlawful for any person who is not a person described in this section to willfully and falsely represent himself as having the qualifications to obtain the special license plates herein provided for.

The provisions of subdivisions B 1 and 2 of § 46.2-725 shall not apply to license plates issued under this section.

Unremarried surviving spouses of persons eligible to receive special license plates under this section may also be issued special license plates under this section.

2019, c. 194 ; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 145 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1219.3 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 12 / Article 3 / Section 46.2-1219.3
Parking of vehicles in parking spaces reserved for charging electric vehicles; civil penalties
Status: in_force

A. It shall constitute a traffic infraction for any person to park a vehicle that (i) is not a plug-in electric motor vehicle, as defined in § 56-1 , or (ii) is a plug-in electric motor vehicle, as defined in § 56-1 , that is not in the process of charging in a parking space adjacent to an electric vehicle charging station that is clearly marked as reserved for charging plug-in electric motor vehicles. A violation of this subsection is subject to a civil penalty of not more than $25.

B. No civil penalty shall be imposed pursuant to the provisions of this section or any local ordinance adopted pursuant to this section unless the parking space reserved for charging plug-in electric motor vehicles has a sign that includes the following language: "PENALTY, UP TO $25." Such language may be placed on a separate sign and attached below any sign indicating that the space is reserved for charging plug-in electric motor vehicles. In the case of a local ordinance adopted pursuant to subsection C, the sign shall indicate the amount of the civil penalty if such ordinance imposes a civil penalty.

C. The governing body of any county, city, or town may adopt an ordinance not inconsistent with the provisions of this section. The civil penalty for violating any such ordinance shall not exceed the civil penalties provided in subsection A.

D. In the prosecution of an offense established under this section, prima facie evidence that the vehicle described in the summons issued pursuant to this section was parked in violation of this section, together with proof that the defendant was at the time of such violation the owner, lessee, or renter of the vehicle, shall constitute in evidence a rebuttable presumption that such owner, lessee, or renter of the vehicle was the person who committed the violation. A violation of this section may be charged on the uniform traffic summons form.

2022, c. 758 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-410.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 12 / Section 46.2-410.1
Judicial review of revocation or suspension by Commissioner
Status: in_force

A. Notwithstanding the provisions of § 46.2-410 , when the Commissioner orders a revocation or suspension of a person's driver's license under the provisions of this chapter, the person so aggrieved may, in cases of manifest injustice, within 60 days of receipt of notice of the suspension or revocation, petition the circuit court of the jurisdiction wherein he resides for a hearing to review the Commissioner's order. Manifest injustice is defined as those instances where the Commissioner's order was the result of an error or was issued without authority or jurisdiction. The person shall provide notice of his petition to the attorney for the Commonwealth of that jurisdiction.

B. At the hearing on the petition, if the court finds that the Commissioner's order is manifestly unjust the court may, notwithstanding any other provision of law, order the Commissioner to modify the order or issue the person a restricted license in accordance with the provisions of § 18.2-271.1 . For any action under this section, no appeal shall lie from the determination of the circuit court.

C. This section shall not apply to any disqualification of eligibility to operate a commercial motor vehicle imposed by the Commissioner pursuant to Article 6.1 (§ 46.2-341.1 et seq.).

2001, cc. 739 , 749 ; 2002, c. 811 ; 2020, cc. 740 , 741 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-658 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 5 / Section 46.2-658
Regular operation other than for pleasure
Status: in_force

Except as provided in § 46.2-657 , a nonresident owner of a foreign motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer which is regularly operated in the Commonwealth, or from a point or points outside the Commonwealth to a point or points within the Commonwealth, or from a point or points within the Commonwealth to a point or points outside the Commonwealth, or through the Commonwealth, for purposes other than purposes of pleasure, shall, unless otherwise provided in this chapter, register such vehicle and pay the same fees therefor as are required with reference to like vehicles owned by residents of the Commonwealth. Any owner who operates or permits to be operated one or more of these vehicles either simultaneously or alternately as often as four times in any one month shall be considered to be regularly operating them in the Commonwealth.

Code 1950, § 46-117; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-134; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-873 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 8 / Section 46.2-873
Maximum speed limits at school crossings; penalty
Status: in_force

A. For the purposes of this section, "school crossing zone" means an area located within the vicinity of a school at or near a highway where the presence of children on such school property or going to and from school reasonably requires a special warning to motorists. Such zones are marked and operated in accordance with the requirements of this section with appropriate warning signs or other traffic control devices indicating that a school crossing is in progress.

B. The maximum speed limit shall be 25 miles per hour between portable signs, tilt-over signs, or fixed blinking signs placed in or along any highway and bearing the word "school" or "school crossing." Any signs erected under this section shall be placed not more than 750 feet from the limits of the school property or crossing in the vicinity of the school. However, "school crossing" signs may be placed in any location if the Department of Transportation or the council of the city or town or the board of supervisors of a county maintaining its own system of secondary roads approves the crossing for such signs. If the portion of the highway to be posted is within the limits of a city or town, such portable signs shall be furnished and delivered by such city or town. If the portion of highway to be posted is outside the limits of a city or town, such portable signs shall be furnished and delivered by the Department of Transportation. The principal or chief administrative officer of each school or a school board designee, preferably not a classroom teacher, shall place such portable signs in the highway at a point not more than 750 feet from the limits of the school property and remove such signs when their presence is no longer required by this section. Such portable signs, tilt-over signs, or fixed blinking signs shall be placed in a position plainly visible to vehicular traffic approaching from either direction, but shall not be placed so as to obstruct the roadway.

C. Such portable signs, tilt-over signs, or blinking signs shall be in a position, or be turned on, for 30 minutes preceding regular school hours, for 30 minutes thereafter, and during such other times as the presence of children on such school property or going to and from school reasonably requires a special warning to motorists. The governing body of any county, city, or town may, however, decrease the period of time preceding and following regular school hours during which such portable signs, tilt-over signs, or blinking signs shall be in position or lit if it determines that no children will be going to or from school during the period of time that it subtracts from the 30-minute period. Additionally, the governing body of any county, city, or town may, by ordinance, increase the period of time preceding and following regular school hours during which such portable signs, tilt-over signs, or blinking signs shall be in position or lit to a maximum of 60 minutes if it determines that children will be going to or from school during that period of time.

D. The governing body of any city or town may, if the portion of the highway to be posted is within the limits of such city or town, increase or decrease the speed limit provided in this section only after justification for such increase or decrease has been shown by an engineering and traffic investigation, and no such increase or decrease in speed limit shall be effective unless such increased or decreased speed limit is conspicuously posted on the portable signs, tilt-over signs, or fixed blinking signs required by this section.

E. The governing body of a county within Planning District 8 may, if the portion of the highway to be posted is within the limits of such county, increase or decrease the speed limit provided in this section only after justification for such increase or decrease has been shown by an engineering and traffic investigation, and no such increase or decrease in speed limit shall be effective unless such increased or decreased speed limit is conspicuously posted on the portable signs, tilt-over signs, or fixed blinking signs required by this section.

F. The City of Virginia Beach may establish school zones as provided in this section and mark such zones with flashing warning lights as provided in this section on and along all highways adjacent to Route 58.

G. Any person operating any motor vehicle in excess of a maximum speed limit established specifically for a school crossing zone when such school crossing zone is (i) indicated by appropriately placed signs displaying the maximum speed limit and (ii) in operation pursuant to subsection B shall be guilty of a traffic infraction punishable by a fine of not more than $250, in addition to other penalties provided by law.

H. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, the maximum speed limit in school zones in residential areas may be decreased to 15 miles per hour if (i) the school board having jurisdiction over the school nearest to the affected school zone passes a resolution requesting the reduction of the maximum speed limit for such school zone from 25 miles per hour to 15 miles per hour and (ii) the local governing body of the jurisdiction in which such school is located enacts an ordinance establishing the speed-limit reduction requested by the school board.

Code 1950, § 46-212; 1950, p. 881; 1952, c. 666; 1954, c. 244; 1956, c. 364; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-193; 1960, c. 153; 1962, c. 307; 1964, cc. 118, 408; 1966, c. 85; 1968, c. 641; 1972, cc. 89, 546, 553, 608; 1974, c. 528; 1977, c. 577; 1978, c. 605; 1980, c. 347; 1989, c. 727; 1990, c. 928; 1994, c. 157 ; 1997, cc. 629 , 781 ; 2007, c. 813 ; 2015, cc. 459 , 460 ; 2023, c. 84 ; 2026, c. 337 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1027 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 3 / Section 46.2-1027
Warning lights on certain demonstrator vehicles
Status: in_force

Dealers or businesses engaged in the sale of fire, emergency medical services, or law-enforcement vehicles may, for demonstration purposes, equip such vehicles with colored warning lights.

Code 1950, § 46-273; 1954, c. 310; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-267; 1960, cc. 156, 391; 1962, c. 512; 1966, cc. 655, 664; 1968, c. 89; 1972, c. 7; 1974, c. 537; 1976, c. 6; 1977, c. 72; 1978, cc. 311, 357; 1980, c. 337; 1981, c. 338; 1984, cc. 440, 539; 1985, cc. 248, 269, 287, 462; 1986, cc. 124, 127, 229; 1987, cc. 347, 370; 1988, cc. 339, 351; 1989, c. 727; 2015, cc. 502 , 503 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1405 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 14 / Section 46.2-1405
Municipal licenses and taxes
Status: in_force

No county, city, or town may impose a tax on or require a license, including business licenses or gross receipts taxes, for a ridesharing arrangement using a motor vehicle with a seating capacity for not more than fifteen persons, including the driver.

1981, c. 218, § 46.1-561; 1989, c. 727; 2002, c. 337 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-391.5 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 12 / Section 46.2-391.5
Preparation and distribution of forms
Status: in_force

The Supreme Court shall develop policies and regulations pertaining to the notice of suspension under subsection A of § 46.2-391.2 and the notice that the suspension has been rescinded under subsection C of § 46.2-391.2 and § 46.2-391.4 , and shall furnish appropriate forms to all law-enforcement officers and district courts, respectively.

1994, cc. 359 , 363 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-341.21 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 6.1 / Section 46.2-341.21
Driving while disqualified; penalties
Status: in_force

No person whose privilege to drive a commercial motor vehicle has been suspended or revoked or who has been disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle or who has been ordered out of service, and who has been given notice of, or reasonably should know of the suspension, revocation, disqualification, or out-of-service order shall operate a commercial motor vehicle anywhere in the Commonwealth until the period of such suspension, revocation, disqualification, or out-of-service order has terminated, nor shall any person operate on any highway any vehicle that has been declared out of service until such time as the out-of-service declaration has been lifted.

Any person who violates this section shall, for the first offense, be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor, and for the second or any subsequent offense, be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor; however, if the offense is the violation of an out-of-service order, the minimum mandatory fine shall be $2,500 for any person so convicted of a first offense and $5,000 for a person convicted of a second or subsequent offense. Upon receipt of a record of a violation of this section, the Commissioner shall impose an additional disqualification in accordance with the provisions of §§ 46.2-341.18 and 46.2-341.18:01 .

1989, c. 705, § 46.1-372.20; 1990, c. 218; 1995, cc. 145 , 151 ; 2005, c. 513 ; 2008, c. 190 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1029 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 3 / Section 46.2-1029
Auxiliary lights on law-enforcement vehicles
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, any government-owned law-enforcement vehicle may be equipped with clear auxiliary lights of a type approved by the Superintendent. Such lights may be used to light emergency scenes and other areas for the purpose of detecting offenders, apprehending violators of law, and in performing other reasonably necessary law-enforcement functions. Such lights may be used when the vehicle on which they are mounted is standing or proceeding at a speed of no more than fifteen miles per hour. Such lights shall not be used in a manner which may blind or interfere with the vision of the operators of approaching vehicles.

Any law-enforcement officer may also use spotlights, as authorized in § 46.2-1019 , for the purpose and in the manner described herein.

1975, c. 291, § 46.1-267.2; 1980, c. 14; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-396.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 12 / Section 46.2-396.1
Conviction of serious driving offense
Status: in_force

Upon the conviction of a traffic offense that causes the death of any person and which (i) the Commissioner has designated a serious traffic offense, a relatively serious traffic offense, or a traffic offense of a less serious nature under § 46.2-492 or (ii) constitutes any criminal offense in this title, the court may suspend the driver's license of the person convicted for not more than twelve months, in addition to any other penalties provided by law and may order the surrender of his license to the court to be disposed of in accordance with § 46.2-398 . In those cases where the court determines it is appropriate, the court may provide that any individual whose license is suspended pursuant to this section be issued a restricted license to operate a motor vehicle for any of the purposes set forth in subsection E of § 18.2-271.1 during the term of suspension. If the convicted driver does not have a driver's license, as defined in § 46.2-100 , or is a nonresident, the court may order the driver not to drive any motor vehicle in the Commonwealth for not more than twelve months.

2002, c. 849 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-749.7:1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-749.7:1
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2000, c. 75 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-341.17 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 6.1 / Section 46.2-341.17
Penalty for violation of this article
Status: in_force

Unless otherwise provided in this article or by the laws of the Commonwealth, any person who violates any provision of this article shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

1989, c. 705, § 46.1-372.16.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-873.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 8 / Section 46.2-873.1
Maximum speed limit on nonsurface-treated highways
Status: in_force

The maximum speed limit on nonsurface-treated highways, which are roads that are comprised of an earth-aggregate or aggregate surface (i.e., dirt and gravel) that have not been stabilized with a bituminous or cementitious material, shall be 35 miles per hour. The maximum speed limit upon such highways may be increased or decreased by the Commissioner of Highways or other authority having jurisdiction over highways. However, such increased or decreased maximum speed limit shall be effective only when indicated by sign on the highway. For such highways upon which maximum speed limit is not indicated by sign, the maximum speed limit shall be 35 miles per hour.

2000, c. 262 ; 2004, c. 719 ; 2005, cc. 239 , 804 ; 2009, c. 74 ; 2010, cc. 19 , 48 ; 2011, c. 29 ; 2012, c. 207 ; 2014, cc. 80 , 261 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1244 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 12.1 / Section 46.2-1244
Volunteer disabled parking enforcement units
Status: in_force

A. The governing body of any county, city, or town may by ordinance provide that its law-enforcement agency establish and supervise volunteers to enforce violations of § 46.2-1242 .

B. Excluding § 46.2-1242 , volunteers acting pursuant to this section shall not have the power or duty to enforce any other traffic or criminal laws of the state or any county, city, or town.

C. No volunteer acting pursuant to this section shall carry a firearm or other weapon during the course of his volunteer enforcement duties.

1997, cc. 783 , 904 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2099.42 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 13 / Section 46.2-2099.42
Assignment of liability
Status: in_force

A. The operator of an excursion train shall be liable for personal injury or wrongful death arising from the operation of such excursion train, including operations, maintenance, and signalization of the tracks and facilities upon which the excursion train operates.

B. Any county, city, or town may by resolution determine that the provision of excursion train services within the locality promotes tourism and furthers other public purposes. Any railroad company that authorizes the operator of an excursion train to use its tracks and facilities for the purposes of this article shall not be liable for personal injury or wrongful death arising from the operation of such excursion train, including operations, maintenance, and signalization of the tracks and facilities upon which the excursion train operates.

C. The limitation of liability under subsection B does not apply if:

1. The injury or damages result from intentional misconduct, malice, or gross negligence of the railroad company; or

2. The operator of the excursion train was not operating in accordance with the definition of an excursion train under this chapter and the railroad company had otherwise authorized the operations that were inconsistent with this chapter.

D. Each passenger on the excursion train shall be deemed to have accepted and consented to the limitation of liability under this section. This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth as the place of performance notwithstanding any choice of law rules to the contrary.

E. The railroad company may charge reasonable amounts to the operator of the excursion train for the use of its tracks and facilities as determined by agreement between the railroad company and the operator.

2001, c. 596 ; 2016, c. 431 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-802 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-802
Drive on right side of highways; penalty
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided by law, on all highways of sufficient width, the driver of a vehicle shall drive on the right half of the highway, unless it is impracticable to travel on such side of the highway and except when overtaking and passing another vehicle, subject to the provisions applicable to overtaking and passing set forth in Article 4 (§ 46.2-837 et seq.) of this chapter. A violation of this section is punishable by a fine of $100.

Code 1950, § 46-220; 1952, c. 671; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-203; 1989, c. 727; 2017, c. 795 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1256 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 12.1 / Section 46.2-1256
Notice of convictions; revocation of disabled parking placards and license plates
Status: in_force

A. Upon the entry of a conviction under §§ 46.2-1247 through 46.2-1253 , or under any ordinance which incorporates any of those sections by reference, the court shall send notice of the conviction and the number of the license plate or placard involved to the Commissioner. Such notice may be transmitted by electronic means.

B. Upon receiving notice pursuant to subsection A of this section, the Commissioner may revoke any disabled parking license plate, DV disabled parking license plate, organizational, permanent, or temporary placard of an individual or organization found guilty under §§ 46.2-1247 through 46.2-1253 if he finds, after a hearing if requested by the person to whom the license plate or placard is issued, that such person (i) is not a person with a disability that limits or impairs his ability to walk and is not otherwise eligible to be issued a license plate or a placard pursuant to §§ 46.2-731 , 46.2-739 , or § 46.2-1241 , or (ii) is authorized to have such license plate or placard but has allowed the abuse or misuse of the privilege granted thereby so that revocation appears appropriate to remedy the abuse or misuse.

1997, cc. 783 , 904 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-334 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 5 / Section 46.2-334
Conditions and requirements for licensure of persons under 18
Status: in_force

A. Minors at least 16 years and three months old may be issued driver's licenses under the following conditions:

1. The minor shall submit a proper application and satisfactory evidence that he (i) is a resident of the Commonwealth; (ii) has successfully completed a driver education course approved by either the State Department of Education or, in the case of a course offered by a driver training school licensed under Chapter 17 (§ 46.2-1700 et seq.) of this title, by the Department of Motor Vehicles; and (iii) is mentally, physically, and otherwise qualified to drive a motor vehicle safely.

2. The minor's application for a driver's license must be signed by a parent of the applicant, otherwise by the guardian having custody of him. However, in the event a minor has no parent or guardian, then a driver's license shall not be issued to him unless his application is signed by the judge of the juvenile and domestic relations district court of the city or county in which he resides. If the minor making the application is married or otherwise emancipated, in lieu of any parent's, guardian's or judge's signature, the minor may present proper evidence of the solemnization of the marriage or the order of emancipation.

3. The minor shall be required to state in his application whether or not he has been convicted of an offense triable by, or tried in, a juvenile and domestic relations district court or found by such court to be a child in need of supervision, as defined in § 16.1-228 . If it appears that the minor has been adjudged not innocent of the offense alleged or has been found to be a child in need of supervision, the Department shall not issue a license without the written approval of the judge of the juvenile and domestic relations district court making an adjudication as to the minor or the like approval of a similar court of the county or city in which the parent or guardian, respectively, of the minor resides.

4. The application for a permanent driver's license by a minor of the age of persons required to attend school pursuant to § 22.1-254 shall be accompanied by evidence of compliance with the compulsory school attendance law set forth in Article 1 (§ 22.1-254 et seq.) of Chapter 14 of Title 22.1. This evidence shall be provided in writing by the minor's parent. If the minor is unable to provide such evidence, he shall not be granted a driver's license until he reaches the age of 18 or presents proper evidence of the solemnization of his marriage or an order of emancipation, or the parent, as defined in § 22.1-1 , or other person standing in loco parentis has provided written authorization for the minor to obtain a driver's license.

A minor may, however, present a high school diploma or its equivalent or a certificate indicating completion of a prescribed course of study as defined by the local school board pursuant to § 22.1-253.13:4 as evidence of compulsory school attendance compliance.

5. The minor applicant shall certify in writing, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, that he is a resident of the Commonwealth. The applicant's parent or guardian shall also certify that the applicant is a resident by signing the certification. Any minor providing proper evidence of the solemnization of his marriage or a certified copy of a court order of emancipation shall not be required to provide the parent's certification of residence.

B. Any custodial parent or guardian of an unmarried or unemancipated minor may, after the issuance of a permanent driver's license to such minor, file with the Department a written request that the license of the minor be canceled. When such request is filed, the Department shall cancel the license of the minor and the license shall not thereafter be reissued by the Department until a period of six months has elapsed from the date of cancellation or the minor reaches his eighteenth birthday, whichever shall occur sooner. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this subsection, in the case of a minor whose parents have been awarded joint legal custody, a request that the license of the minor be cancelled must be signed by both legal custodians. In the event one parent is not reasonably available or the parents do not agree, one parent may petition the juvenile and domestic relations district court to make a determination that the license of the minor be cancelled.

C. The provisions of subsection A of this section requiring that an application for a driver's license be signed by the parent or guardian shall be waived by the Commissioner if the application is accompanied by proper evidence of the solemnization of the minor's marriage or a certified copy of a court order, issued under the provisions of Article 15 (§ 16.1-331 et seq.) of Chapter 11 of Title 16.1, declaring the applicant to be an emancipated minor.

D. A learner's permit accompanied by documentation verifying the minor's successful completion of an approved driver education course, signed by the minor's parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis, shall constitute a temporary driver's license for purposes of driving unaccompanied by a licensed driver as required in § 46.2-335 , if all other requirements of this chapter have been met. The temporary license shall only be valid until the permanent license is presented as provided in § 46.2-336 .

E. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection A requiring the successful completion of a driver education course approved by the State Department of Education, the Commissioner, on application therefor by a person at least 16 years and three months old but less than 18 years old, shall issue to the applicant a temporary driver's license valid for six months if he (i) certifies by signing, together with his parent or guardian, if applicable, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner that he is a resident of the Commonwealth; (ii) is the holder of a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, U.S. territory, Canadian province, or Canadian territory; and (iii) has not been found guilty of or otherwise responsible for an offense involving the operation of a motor vehicle. No temporary license issued under this subsection shall be renewed, nor shall any second or subsequent temporary license under this subsection be issued to the same applicant. Any such minor providing proper evidence of the solemnization of his marriage or a certified copy of a court order of emancipation shall not be required to obtain the signature of his parent or guardian for the temporary driver's license.

In order to obtain a permanent driver's license, applicants who transfer to Virginia from another U.S. state or any U.S. territory, Canadian province, or Canadian territory must have documentation of at least 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of in-car instruction from a government-approved program in the other U.S. state, U.S. territory, or Canadian province or Canadian territory. If a transfer applicant successfully completes a government-approved classroom and in-car driver education program from another state or any U.S. territory, Canadian province, or Canadian territory, the applicant must present the certificate of completion, specifying the number of instructional hours, to the Department.

F. For persons qualifying for a driver's license through driver education courses approved by the Department of Education or courses offered by driver training schools licensed by the Department, the application for the learner's permit shall be used as the application for the driver's license pursuant to § 46.2-335 .

G. Driver's licenses shall be issued by the Department to students successfully completing driver education courses approved by the Department of Education (i) when the Department receives from the school proper certification that the student (a) has successfully completed such course, including a road skills examination and (b) is regularly attending school and is in good academic standing or, if not in such standing or submitting evidence thereof, whose parent or guardian, having custody of such minor, provides written authorization for the minor to obtain a driver's license, which written authorization shall be obtained on forms provided by the Department and indicating the Commonwealth's interest in the good academic standing and regular school attendance of such minors; and (ii) upon payment of a fee of $2.40 per year, based on the period of the license's validity. For applicants attending public schools, good academic standing may be certified by the public school principal or any of his designees. For applicants attending nonpublic schools, such certification shall be made by the private school principal or any of his designees; for students receiving home schooling, such certification shall be made by the home schooling parent or tutor. Any minor providing proper evidence of the solemnization of his marriage or a certified copy of a court order of emancipation shall not be required to provide the certification of good academic standing or any written authorization from his parent or guardian to obtain a driver's license.

H. For those home schooled students completing driver education courses approved by the Board of Education and instructed by his own parent or guardian, no driver's license shall be issued until the student has successfully completed the driver's license examination administered by the Department. Furthermore, the Commissioner shall not issue a driver's license for those home schooled students completing driver education courses approved by the Board of Education and instructed by his own parent or guardian if it is determined by the Commissioner that, at the time of such instruction, such parent or guardian had accumulated six or more driver demerit points in the most recently preceding 12 months, had been convicted within the most recent 11 preceding years of driving while intoxicated in violation of § 18.2-266 or a substantially similar law in another state, or had ever been convicted of voluntary or involuntary manslaughter in violation of § 18.2-35 or 18.2-36 or a substantially similar law in another state.

I. The Commissioner, on application therefor by a person from another U.S. state or any U.S. territory, Canadian province, or Canadian territory who is at least 16 years and three months old but less than 18 years old, shall issue a Virginia driver's license to the applicant if the applicant (i) certifies by signing, together with his parent or guardian, if applicable, on a form prescribed by the Commissioner that he is now a resident of the Commonwealth; (ii) has completed a government-approved classroom and in-car driver education program from another U.S. state or any U.S. territory, Canadian province, or Canadian territory, which shall not be required to meet the 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of in-car instruction requirement in subsection E; (iii) is the holder of a valid driver's license from another U.S. state or any U.S. territory, Canadian province, or Canadian territory; (iv) has held the valid driver's license for the 12 months immediately prior to applying for a Virginia license; (v) has not been found guilty of or otherwise responsible for an offense involving the operation of a motor vehicle; and (vi) successfully completes behind-the-wheel and driver knowledge examinations administered by the Department.

The applicant must present the certificate of completion specifying the number of classroom and in-car driver education program instructional hours for the government-approved classroom and in-car driver education program from another U.S. state or any U.S. territory, Canadian province, or Canadian territory to the Department.

Code 1950, §§ 46-353, 46-361, 46-363, 46-364; 1950, p. 249; 1952, c. 396; 1954, c. 123; 1956, c. 665; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-357; 1960, cc. 110, 424; 1962, cc. 254, 482; 1964, c. 617; 1966, c. 36; 1968, c. 642; 1970, c. 41; 1972, c. 823; 1973, c. 1; 1974, cc. 223, 542; 1976, c. 8; 1977, cc. 548, 552; 1980, c. 165; 1982, c. 287; 1984, c. 780; 1987, cc. 154, 632; 1989, cc. 392, 705, 727; 1991, c. 214; 1993, cc. 471, 501; 1995, c. 535 ; 1996, cc. 943 , 994 , 1011 , 1022 ; 1997, c. 841 ; 1999, cc. 459 , 462 , 887 ; 2001, cc. 659 , 665 , 851 ; 2003, c. 951 ; 2014, cc. 286 , 685 ; 2016, c. 488 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2072 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 5 / Section 46.2-2072
Operational restrictions
Status: in_force

No nonprofit/tax-exempt passenger carrier shall operate over the same or an adjacent route and on a similar schedule as a public transportation authority or a common carrier holding a certificate of public convenience and necessity issued pursuant to this chapter.

2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1608 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 16 / Section 46.2-1608
Maintenance and contents of records
Status: in_force

A. Each licensee shall maintain a record of the receipt and sale of any vehicle. Such record shall be maintained at the licensee's place of business. The record, at a minimum, shall contain:

1. A description of each vehicle sold, purchased, exchanged, or acquired by the licensee, including, but not limited to, the model, make, year of the vehicle as well as the vehicle's title number with state of issuance and vehicle identification number;

2. The price paid for each vehicle;

3. The name and address of the seller from whom each vehicle is purchased, exchanged, or acquired and the name and address of the buyer to whom the vehicle is sold;

4. The date and hour the sale, purchase, exchange, or acquisition was made;

5. A photocopy of the seller's and buyer's driver's license, state identification card, official United States military identification card, or any other form of personal identification with photograph;

6. For the sale of nonrepairable vehicles, a photocopy of the buyer's business license if the buyer is authorized to purchase a vehicle under § 46.2-1602 or, if the buyer represents a third party authorized to purchase a vehicle under § 46.2-1602 , then a photocopy of the third party's business license and documentation that the buyer is authorized to act on behalf of that third party;

7. Digital photographs of the seller, the buyer, and the vehicle that is being sold, purchased, exchanged, or acquired through or from the licensee; and

8. The signature of the licensee, the seller, and the buyer as executed at the time of the sale, purchase, exchange, or acquisition of the vehicle by the licensee.

B. If any major component, as defined in § 46.2-1600 , is sold, the salvage dealer shall provide, upon request of any law-enforcement official, the information required by this section as to the vehicle from which the part was taken.

C. The provisions of subdivisions A 5, 6, and 7 shall not apply to vehicles when the licensee maintains a photocopy or electronic copy of one of the documents set out in § 46.2-1206 or this chapter.

D. The provisions of this section shall not apply to salvage pools as defined in § 46.2-1600 , except that salvage pools shall maintain a record of the receipt of any vehicle that contains (i) the date of receipt of the vehicle and its make, year, model, and identification number; (ii) the name and address of the person from whom it was acquired; (iii) the name and address of the buyer as well as (a) a photocopy of the buyer's driver's license, state identification card, official United States military identification card, or any other form of personal identification with photograph and (b) a photocopy of the buyer's business license or, if the buyer represents a third party authorized to purchase the vehicle under § 46.2-1602 , then a photocopy of the third party's business license and documentation that the buyer is authorized to act on behalf of the third party; and (iv) the vehicle's title number and state of issuance.

1979, c. 401, § 46.1-550.13; 1989, c. 727; 1992, c. 148; 2000, c. 123 ; 2010, c. 873 ; 2014, c. 58 ; 2015, cc. 33 , 177 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-632 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 2 / Section 46.2-632
Transfer when certificate of title lost
Status: in_force

A. Whenever the applicant for the registration of a motor vehicle, manufactured home, trailer, or semitrailer or a new certificate of title is unable to present a certificate of title because the certificate has been lost or unlawfully detained by one in possession of it or whenever the certificate of title is otherwise not available, the Department may receive the application and investigate the circumstances of the case and may require the filing of affidavits or other information. When the Department is satisfied that the applicant is entitled to the title, it may register the motor vehicle, manufactured home, trailer, or semitrailer and issue a new registration card, license plate, or plates and certificate of title to the person entitled to it.

B. Whenever the insurance company or its agent makes application for a certificate of title to a vehicle that is not a salvage vehicle as defined in § 46.2-1600 and is unable to present a certificate of title, the Department may receive the application along with an affidavit indicating that the vehicle was acquired as the result of the claims process and describing the efforts made by the insurance company or its agent to obtain the certificate of title from the previous owner. When the Department is satisfied that the applicant is entitled to the title, it may issue a certificate of title to the person entitled to it. The Commissioner may charge a fee of $25 for the expense of processing an application under this subsection that is accompanied by an affidavit. Such fee shall be in addition to any other fees and taxes required. All fees collected under the provisions of this subsection shall be paid into the state treasury and set aside as a special fund to be used to meet the expenses of the Department.

Code 1950, § 46-88; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-92; 1989, c. 727; 2009, c. 171 ; 2014, c. 624 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-453 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 15 / Section 46.2-453
Proof of financial responsibility by delivering cash or securities
Status: in_force

A person may give proof of financial responsibility by delivering to the Commissioner cash or securities equal to the sum of the liability coverage required for bodily injury or death of two or more persons in any one accident and injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident as prescribed by § 46.2-472 . Securities so deposited shall be such as public bodies may invest in according to § 2.2-4500 .

Code 1950, § 46-474; 1954, c. 378; 1958, cc. 501, 541, § 46.1-485; 1968, c. 685; 1978, c. 220; 1980, c. 484; 1986, c. 16; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-655 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 5 / Section 46.2-655
Reciprocity required
Status: in_force

The privileges extended under this article to nonresident owners of foreign motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers operated in the Commonwealth are extended only on condition that the same privileges are granted by the state of the United States or foreign country wherein such nonresident owners are residents to residents of the Commonwealth operating motor vehicles, trailers, or semitrailers in such state of the United States or foreign country.

Code 1950, § 46-110; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-131; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2121 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 21 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-2121
Vehicle fees
Status: in_force

Every person who operates a property-carrying vehicle for compensation over the highways of the Commonwealth shall be required to pay an annual fee of $10 for each such vehicle so operated, unless (i) such operation is exempted from this chapter; (ii) the property-carrying vehicle is a passenger car, motorcycle, autocycle, moped, or vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less; (iii) a vehicle identification marker fee has been paid to the Department as to such vehicle for the current year under the provisions of Chapter 27 (§ 58.1-2700 et seq.) of Title 58.1; or (iv) a fee has been paid for the vehicle through the unified carrier registration system established pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 14504a and the regulations promulgated thereunder for carriers registered pursuant to those provisions. No more than one vehicle fee shall be charged or paid as to any vehicle in any one year under Chapter 27 (§ 58.1-2700 et seq.) of Title 58.1 and this chapter, including payments made pursuant to the unified carrier registration system.

2001, c. 596 ; 2003, c. 322 ; 2006, c. 208 ; 2017, cc. 790 , 815 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-749.73:1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-749.73:1
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2004, c. 717 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-908.2 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 12.1 / Section 46.2-908.2
Low-speed vehicles; required equipment
Status: in_force

Every low-speed vehicle operated upon a highway shall be equipped with head lights, brake lights, tail lights, reflex reflectors, an emergency or parking brake, an externally mounted rearview mirror, an internally mounted rearview mirror, a windshield, one or more windshield wipers, a speedometer, an odometer, braking for each wheel, a safety belt system, and a vehicle identification number.

2002, cc. 214 , 234 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1538 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 15 / Article 4 / Section 46.2-1538
Salesman selling for other than his employer prohibited
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any motor vehicle salesman licensed under this chapter to sell or exchange or offer or attempt to sell or exchange any motor vehicle except for the licensed motor vehicle dealer by whom he is employed, or to offer, transfer, or assign any sale or exchange that he may have negotiated to any other dealer or salesman.

Code 1950, § 46-539; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-550; 1976, c. 362; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2068 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 4 / Section 46.2-2068
Required permit
Status: in_force

No employee hauler, unless otherwise exempted, shall transport passengers on any highway within the Commonwealth on an intrastate basis without first having obtained from the Department a permit authorizing such operation.

2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-341.10:1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 6.1 / Section 46.2-341.10:1
Seasonal restricted commercial drivers' licenses
Status: in_force

A. The Commissioner may, in his discretion, issue seasonal restricted commercial drivers' licenses in accordance with this section.

B. A Virginia seasonal restricted commercial driver's license shall be issued only to a person who (i) is a seasonal employee of a farm retail outlet or supplier, a custom harvester, a livestock feeder, or an agri-chemical business, (ii) is a Virginia-licensed driver with at least one year of driving experience as a licensed driver, and (iii) has satisfied every requirement for issuance of a commercial driver's license except successful completion of the knowledge and skills tests.

C. The Department shall not issue or renew a seasonal restricted commercial driver's license and shall not revalidate the seasonal period for which such license authorizes operation of a commercial motor vehicle, unless:

1. The applicant has not, and certifies that he has not, at any time during the two years immediately preceding the date of application:

a. Had more than one driver's license;

b. Had any driver's license or driving privilege suspended, revoked, or canceled;

c. Had any convictions involving any kind of motor vehicle for any of the offenses listed in §§ 46.2-341.18 , 46.2-341.19 , or § 46.2-341.20 ;

d. Been convicted of a violation of state or local laws relating to motor vehicle traffic control, other than a parking violation, which violation arose in connection with any reportable traffic accident;

e. Been convicted of any serious traffic violation, as defined in § 46.2-341.20 , whether or not committed in a commercial motor vehicle; and

2. The applicant certifies and provides evidence satisfactory to the Commissioner that he is employed on a seasonal basis by a farm retail outlet or supplier, custom harvester, livestock feeder, or agri-chemical business in a job requiring the operation of a commercial motor vehicle.

D. Such seasonal restricted license shall entitle the licensee to drive a commercial motor vehicle of the class and type designated on the license, but shall not authorize operation of a Class A vehicle.

E. Such seasonal restricted license shall authorize operation of a commercial motor vehicle only during the seasonal period or periods prescribed by the Commissioner and stated on the license, provided the total number of calendar days in any twelve-month period for which the seasonal restricted license authorizes operation of a commercial motor vehicle shall not exceed 180. The license is valid for operation of a commercial motor vehicle during the seasonal period or periods for which it has been validated and must be revalidated annually by the Department for each successive seasonal period or periods for which commercial vehicle operation is sought; such license shall authorize operation of noncommercial motor vehicles at any time, unless it has been suspended, revoked, or canceled, or has expired.

F. Such seasonal restricted license shall not authorize operation of a commercial motor vehicle during any period during which the licensee is not employed by an entity described in subdivision B hereof, nor if such operation is not directly related to such employment.

G. Such seasonal restricted license shall not authorize the licensee to operate any vehicle transporting hazardous materials as defined in this article, except that a seasonal restricted licensee may drive a vehicle transporting:

1. Diesel fuel in quantities of 1,000 gallons or less;

2. Liquid fertilizers to be used as plant nutrients, in a vehicle or implement of husbandry with a total capacity of 3,000 gallons or less; or

3. Solid plant nutrients that are not transported with any organic substance.

H. Such seasonal restricted license shall authorize the operation of a commercial motor vehicle only within 150 miles of the place of business of the licensee's employer or the farm being served.

1993, c. 70.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1158.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 21 / Section 46.2-1158.1
Extension of validity of vehicle safety inspection approval stickers issued for vehicles whose registered owners are persons in the armed services of the United States
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any contrary provision of law, any vehicle safety inspection approval sticker issued for any vehicle that is principally garaged outside the Commonwealth while its registered owner is a person in the armed services of the United States shall be held not to have expired during the period of the owner's official absence from the Commonwealth in the armed services of the United States, regardless of whether such vehicle is operated in or through the Commonwealth during the owner's official absence from the Commonwealth in the armed services of the United States. Should the armed services member be domiciled in another state of the United States, nothing in this section shall be construed to absolve such person from obtaining a current inspection sticker from his state of domicile, if required by such state. In cases where a vehicle's owner has been officially absent from the Commonwealth because of service in the armed services of the United States but returns to Virginia following such official absence and the vehicle becomes operational in the Commonwealth, the vehicle's owner will have 14 calendar days following such return, Sundays and holidays excepted, to have the vehicle inspected. Furthermore, no penalty shall be imposed on any such owner or operator for operation of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer after the expiration of a period fixed for the inspection thereof, over the most direct route between the place where such vehicle is kept or garaged and an official inspection station for the purpose of having it inspected pursuant to an appointment with such station.

Motor vehicles owned and operated by persons on active duty with the United States armed forces who are Virginia residents stationed outside the Commonwealth at the time the inspection expires may be operated on the highways of the Commonwealth while persons on active duty are on leave, provided such vehicle displays a valid inspection sticker issued by another state.

For the purposes of this section, "service in the armed services of the United States" includes active duty service with the regular armed forces of the United States or the National Guard or other reserve component.

2005, c. 582 ; 2008, c. 722 ; 2009, c. 523 ; 2011, c. 283 ; 2014, cc. 67 , 250 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-742.4 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-742.4
Special license plates for persons awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge
Status: in_force

On receipt of an application and written evidence that the applicant has been awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Commissioner shall issue to the applicant special license plates.

Unremarried surviving spouses of persons eligible to receive special license plates under this section may also be issued special license plates under this section.

2004, c. 984 ; 2023, c. 539 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-678 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-678
Forklift trucks
Status: in_force

A. No person shall be required to obtain the registration certificate, license plates, or decals for or pay a registration fee for any forklift truck provided it is:

1. Operated by a person holding a valid Virginia driver's license;

2. Operated along or across highways only in traveling from one plant, factory, or job site to another by the most direct route;

3. Not carrying or transporting any object or person, other than the driver;

4. Displaying a slow-moving vehicle emblem in conformity with § 46.2-1081 ;

5. In compliance with requirements of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration;

6. Not operated on or along any limited access highway; and

7. Not operated for a distance of more than ten miles.

B. For the purposes of this section, "forklift truck" means a self-propelled machine used for hoisting and transporting heavy objects by means of steel fingers inserted under the load.

1973, c. 194, § 46.1-45.2; 1980, c. 37; 1986, c. 220; 1987, cc. 151, 342, 388; 1989, c. 727; 2016, c. 142 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-747.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-747.1
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2002, c. 90 , cl. 2.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-749.57 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-749.57
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2005, c. 908 , cl. 2.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-399 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 12 / Section 46.2-399
Revocation of license for improper use or failure to pay certain taxes
Status: in_force

The Department shall revoke a driver's license whenever the person to whom the license has been issued makes or permits to be made an unlawful use of it or permits the use of it by a person not entitled to it or fails or refuses to pay within the time prescribed by law, any lawful taxes due the Commonwealth imposed under Chapter 27 of Title 58.1.

Code 1950, § 46-379; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-426; 1984, c. 780; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1701.3 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 17 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-1701.3
Records to be maintained; certification of classes
Status: in_force

A. A driver training school shall maintain all student records, business records, and other records, as required by the Department, at its established place of business. The Commissioner may, on written request from a driver training school, permit records to be maintained at a location other than the established place of business for good cause shown. All records shall be preserved in original form or in film, magnetic, electronic, or optical media, including microfilm or microfiche, for a period of three years in a manner that permits systematic retrieval. All records required to be maintained by the provisions of this section or by regulation shall be available to the Commissioner or his agents during regular business hours or at any other reasonable time, as determined by the Commissioner. A driver training school shall ensure that all student records are stored securely so that only employees of such school can access the records, except as otherwise provided in this section.

B. The failure of a driver training school to maintain or produce contemporary records that a person completed a course shall create a rebuttable presumption that such person did not complete such course. The Commissioner may require a school to use certificate forms provided by the Department to show completion of a course. The Commissioner may limit the number of certificate forms provided to a driver training school based upon criteria established by the Department, including the number of licensed instructors, the number of vehicles used by the school, and the types of courses taught by the school. The Commissioner may also require that a driver training school submit course completion information electronically in a manner prescribed by the Commissioner.

2004, c. 587 ; 2025, c. 79 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1603.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle IV / Chapter 16 / Section 46.2-1603.1
Duties of licensees
Status: in_force

A. If a salvage vehicle is purchased by a salvage dealer and the vehicle is sold as a unit to anyone other than a demolisher, rebuilder, vehicle removal operator, or scrap metal processor, the purchaser shall obtain from the Department a salvage certificate. If the sale is to a demolisher or vehicle removal operator, the salvage vehicle shall be assigned in the space provided for such assignments on the existing salvage certificate. If a vehicle is purchased by a salvage dealer and disassembled for parts only or demolished by a demolisher, the salvage dealer shall immediately and conspicuously indicate on the salvage certificate or title that the vehicle was disassembled for parts only or demolished and immediately forward the salvage certificate or title to the Department for cancellation. The Department shall cancel the title or salvage certificate and issue a nonrepairable certificate for the vehicle to the salvage dealer.

1. If a vehicle for which a title or salvage certificate or other ownership document has been issued by a foreign jurisdiction and is purchased by a salvage dealer or demolisher and disassembled for parts only or demolished by a demolisher, the salvage dealer or demolisher shall immediately and conspicuously indicate on the salvage certificate, title, or other ownership document that the vehicle was disassembled for parts only or demolished and immediately forward the salvage certificate, title or other ownership document to the Department for cancellation. The Department shall cancel the title, salvage certificate, or other ownership document and issue a nonrepairable certificate for the vehicle to the salvage dealer.

2. There shall be no fee for the issuance of a nonrepairable certificate.

B. If a licensee acquires any late model vehicle, he shall immediately compare the vehicle identification number assigned by the manufacturer or the Department or the identification number issued or assigned by another state with the title or salvage certificate of the vehicle and shall notify the Department as provided in subsection C. Such comparison and notification shall not be required of a demolisher if the vehicle was acquired from a licensed salvage dealer, rebuilder, salvage pool, or vehicle removal operator and such licensee delivers to the demolisher a title or salvage certificate for the vehicle.

C. If the vehicle identification number has been altered, is missing, or appears to have been otherwise tampered with, the licensee shall take no further action with regard to the vehicle except to safeguard it in its then-existing condition and shall promptly notify the Department. The Department shall, after an investigation has been made, notify the licensee whether the vehicle can be freed from this limitation. In no event shall the vehicle be disassembled, demolished, processed, or otherwise modified or removed prior to authorization by the Department. If the vehicle is a motorcycle, the licensee shall cause to be noted on the title or salvage certificate, certifying on the face of the document, in addition to the above requirements, the frame number of the motorcycle and motor number, if available.

D. Except as provided in § 46.2-1203 , after a vehicle has been demolished, the demolisher shall, within five working days, deliver to the Department the salvage certificate or title, certifying on the face of the document that the vehicle has been destroyed.

E. Except as provided in § 46.2-1203 , it shall be unlawful for any licensee to purchase, receive, take into inventory, or otherwise accept from any person any late model vehicle unless, as a part of any such transaction, the licensee also receives a title, salvage certificate, nonrepairable certificate, or other ownership documents, issued by an appropriate regulatory agency within or without the Commonwealth, relating to such vehicle. Every licensee shall maintain as a part of his business records a title, salvage certificate, nonrepairable certificate, or other ownership documents, issued by an appropriate regulatory agency within or without the Commonwealth, pertaining to every late model vehicle in his inventory or possession.

F. If a licensee intends to utilize machinery to crush, flatten, or otherwise reduce one or more vehicles to a state where it can no longer be considered a vehicle at a location other than the location specified on the license filed with the Department, the licensee shall apply to the Department for a permit of operation in a manner prescribed by the Commissioner. Each permit shall be valid for a period not to exceed 15 days and shall specify the location of intended operation. The cost of each permit shall be $15.

G. The licensee shall comply with all applicable federal title reporting requirements, including the reporting requirements of the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System pursuant to 28 C.F.R. § 25.56.

1992, c. 148; 1995, cc. 390 , 394 ; 2004, c. 369 ; 2011, c. 824 ; 2014, c. 58 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-749.41 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 10 / Section 46.2-749.41
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2004, c. 717 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-414 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 12 / Section 46.2-414
Commencement of periods for suspension or revocation of licenses, registration cards, or license plates
Status: in_force

Wherever it is provided in this title that the driver's license, registration cards, or license plates of any person be suspended or revoked for a period of time on conviction of certain offenses, or after a hearing before the Commissioner as provided by law, the period shall be counted from the date the conviction becomes final or after the order of the Commissioner, as a result of the hearing, becomes final. However, the provisions of this section shall not apply in any case where the person whose license is subject to suspension or revocation gives a false name or otherwise conceals his identity.

Code 1950, § 46-427.1; 1954, c. 222; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-441; 1984, c. 780; 1989, c. 727; 2005, c. 565 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1182.2 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 22 / Section 46.2-1182.2
Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program Fund established; use of moneys
Status: in_force

A special nonreverting fund known as the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program Fund is hereby established in the state treasury.

Notwithstanding the provisions of § 2.2-1802 , all moneys collected pursuant to § 46.2-1182.1 shall be paid into the treasury and credited to the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program Fund.

No moneys remaining in the Fund at the end of each fiscal year shall revert to the general fund, but shall remain in the Fund. Interest earned on such moneys shall remain in the Fund and be credited to it.

The Department of Environmental Quality may release moneys from the Fund, on warrants issued by the State Comptroller, for covering the costs of the emissions inspection program, including payment to the program coordinator for contracted services. The moneys in this Fund may also be released for the purpose of long-term maintenance of air quality and the correction and prevention of nonattainment status for National Ambient Air Quality Standards through air quality programs under the direction of the Director. Any remaining funds shall be remitted for use in transportation maintenance projects so that such funds generated from localities required to have emissions inspections pursuant to subsection B of § 46.2-1178 shall have such remaining funds generated pursuant to § 46.2-1182.1 transferred on an annual basis to the Northern Virginia Transportation District. Such funds shall be used for transportation maintenance in the respective locality.

1993, cc. 995, 998; 1993, Sp. Sess., c. 2; 2012, cc. 216 , 824 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-750.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 11 / Section 46.2-750.1
Vehicles used for police work
Status: in_force

Motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers owned by the Commonwealth and the counties, cities, and towns thereof and used solely for police work may be issued the same license plates as those issued in registration of vehicles owned by private citizens. The head of a state agency, the chief of police of a city, county, or town having a police department, or the sheriff of a city or county, shall certify under oath and the law-enforcement agencies of the federal government shall certify to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles the vehicles to be used solely for police work.

1989, cc. 48, 110, §§ 46.1-49, 46.1-49.1.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-932.1 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 16 / Section 46.2-932.1
Duty of driver approaching blind pedestrian; effect of failure of blind person to carry white cane or use dog guide
Status: in_force

The driver of a vehicle approaching a totally or partially blind pedestrian who is carrying a cane predominantly white or metallic in color (with or without a red tip) or using a dog guide shall take all necessary precautions to avoid injury to such blind pedestrian and dog guide, and any driver who fails to take such precautions shall be liable in damages for any injury caused such pedestrian and dog guide; provided that a totally or partially blind pedestrian not carrying such a cane or using a dog guide in any of the places, accommodations or conveyances listed in § 51.5-44 , shall have all of the rights and privileges conferred by law upon other persons, and the failure of a totally or partially blind pedestrian to carry such a cane or to use a dog guide in any such places, accommodations or conveyances shall not be held to constitute nor be evidence of contributory negligence; provided, that nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the application of § 46.2-933 or § 46.2-934 .

1972, c. 156, § 63.1-171.3; 1975, c. 473; 2002, c. 747 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-492 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 19 / Section 46.2-492
Uniform Demerit Point System
Status: in_force

A. The Commissioner shall assign point values to those convictions, or findings of not innocent in the case of a juvenile, which are required to be reported to the Department in accordance with § 46.2-383 for traffic offenses committed in violation of the laws of the Commonwealth or any county, city, or town ordinance paralleling and substantially conforming to state law, provided that no conviction, or finding of not innocent in the case of a juvenile for any offense, relating to registration, insurance, or equipment shall be included except as otherwise provided by this title.

B. The Commissioner shall assign point values to those convictions received from any other state of the United States, the United States, Canada or its provinces, or any territorial subdivision of any of them, of an offense therein, which if committed in this Commonwealth, would be required to be reported to the Department by § 46.2-383 .

C. No point assignment shall be made for any conviction which results from a vehicle having been parked or stopped, in order for the driver to sleep or rest, on the shoulder or other portion of a highway not ordinarily used for vehicular traffic. The court shall make a separate finding on this issue and note such finding on the conviction record.

D. The Uniform Demerit Point System standard for rating convictions of traffic offenses shall be based on the severity of the offense and the potential hazardous exposure to other users of the highways and streets. The Commissioner shall designate the point values assigned to convictions, or findings of not innocent in the case of a juvenile, on a graduated scale not to exceed six demerit points for any single conviction. The Commissioner shall develop point system assignments as follows:

1. Serious traffic offenses such as driving while intoxicated in violation of § 18.2-266 , persons under age twenty-one driving after illegally consuming alcohol in violation of § 18.2-266.1 , reckless driving in violation of § 46.2-852 , speeding twenty or more miles per hour above the posted speed limit, racing in violation of § 46.2-865 , and other serious traffic offenses as the Commissioner may designate, shall be assigned six demerit points.

2. Relatively serious traffic offenses such as failure to yield the right-of-way in violation of §§ 46.2-820 through 46.2-823 , speeding between ten and nineteen miles per hour above the posted speed limit, following too closely in violation of § 46.2-816 , failure to stop when entering a highway in violation of § 46.2-863 , aggressive driving in violation of § 46.2-868.1 and other relatively serious traffic offenses as the Commissioner may designate, shall be assigned four demerit points.

3. Traffic offenses of a less serious nature such as improper driving in violation of § 46.2-869 , speeding between one and nine miles per hour above the posted speed limit, improper passing in violation of § 46.2-838 , failure to obey a highway sign in violation of § 46.2-830 and other offenses of a less serious nature as the Commissioner may designate, shall be assigned three demerit points.

E. When a person is convicted of two or more traffic offenses committed on a single occasion, he shall be assessed points for one offense only and if the offenses involved have different point values, he shall be assessed points for the offense having the greater point value.

1974, c. 453, § 46.1-514.6; 1976, c. 86; 1989, c. 727; 1992, c. 856; 1998, c. 430 ; 2002, cc. 752 , 782 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-815 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-815
Hauling certain cargoes through tunnels in violation of posted signs; penalty
Status: in_force

The hauling of any explosive, flammable, or other hazardous cargo, as prohibited by the Department of Transportation under the authority of §§ 33.2-210 and 33.2-300 , through any tunnel on any highway in the Commonwealth in violation of any lawfully posted sign shall constitute a Class 1 misdemeanor.

1984, c. 488, § 46.1-228.1; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-635 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 2 / Section 46.2-635
Surrender of certificates for vehicles to be demolished; securing new title certificates
Status: in_force

Every person disposing of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer which is to be demolished shall make an assignment of title to the transferee as provided in § 46.2-628 . The assigned certificate of title, when available, however, shall be delivered to the Department, accompanied by a form provided by the Commissioner, stating that the vehicle is to be demolished. On receipt of this form and the assigned title, the Commissioner shall forward to the transferee a receipt for them.

If the person, in lieu of demolishing the vehicle, sells, transfers, or operates the motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer, he shall first secure a certificate of title from the Department. Before issuing the new certificate of title, the Department shall inspect, or have inspected, the reconstructed vehicle.

If a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer obtained for use or resale, is subsequently demolished, the owner shall immediately surrender its certificate of title to the Department.

1968, c. 156, § 46.1-98.1; 1978, c. 605; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-611 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-611
Appeal
Status: in_force

From any action by the Department under this title suspending or revoking, rescinding or cancelling the registration of any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer or suspending, revoking, cancelling, or repossessing any registration card, license plates, or decals or denying an application for transfer of title, an appeal shall lie in accordance with the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.).

Code 1950, § 46-60; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-61; 1972, c. 609; 1979, c. 478; 1986, c. 615; 1989, c. 727.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2908 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 29 / Section 46.2-2908
Nonresident; issuance of Virginia escort vehicle driver certificate; nonreciprocal state
Status: in_force

A nonresident who has not been issued an escort vehicle driver certificate in his home state but who has in his immediate possession a valid driver's license issued by his home state may be certified through Virginia's Escort Vehicle Driver Certification Program. Such nonresident must meet all escort vehicle driver certification eligibility, training, and testing requirements of this chapter.

A nonresident who has in his immediate possession a valid driver's license and valid escort vehicle driver certificate issued to him by his home state, to which state's escort vehicle driver certification program the Commonwealth has not extended reciprocity, may be certified through Virginia's Escort Vehicle Driver Certification Program. Such nonresident must meet all escort vehicle driver certification eligibility, training, and testing requirements of this chapter.

2013, cc. 312 , 477 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-323.01 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 4 / Section 46.2-323.01
Issuance of credentials; relationship with federal law
Status: in_force

A. The Department shall establish a process for persons who, for reasons beyond their control, are unable to provide all necessary documents required for credentials issued under this chapter and must rely on alternate documents to establish identity or date of birth. Alternative documents to demonstrate legal presence will only be allowed to demonstrate United States citizenship.

B. The Department shall not comply with any federal law or regulation that would require the Department to use any type of computer chip or radio-frequency identification tag or other similar device on or in any credential issued under this chapter.

2009, c. 872 ; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 544 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1164 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 21 / Section 46.2-1164
Reinspection not required when windshield replaced; transfer of inspection sticker to new windshield; replacement of lost or damaged stickers
Status: in_force

When any vehicle requires the replacement of a windshield pursuant to § 46.2-1058 , it shall not be necessary to inspect such vehicle at the time of replacement if a valid state inspection sticker is displayed on the windshield being replaced.

The sticker found on the broken windshield may be removed and placed on the new windshield.

The Superintendent may designate certain State Police officers to issue safety inspection approval stickers to vehicles from which the original valid safety inspection approval sticker has been lost, stolen or damaged without causing the vehicle to be reinspected, provided the vehicle owner or operator produces the original safety inspection approval sticker receipt issued to the vehicle within the past eleven months. Such replacement safety inspection approval stickers shall be issued in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Superintendent.

1978, c. 266, § 46.1-294.1; 1989, c. 727; 1993, c. 94; 1994, c. 396 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1408 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 14.1 / Section 46.2-1408
Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Peer-to-peer vehicle sharing" means the authorized use of a shared vehicle by a shared vehicle driver through a peer-to-peer vehicle sharing platform.

"Peer-to-peer vehicle sharing platform" means an online-enabled application, website, or system that connects vehicle owners with drivers to enable the sharing of peer-to-peer shared vehicles for financial consideration.

"Shared vehicle" means a motor vehicle that has been made available for sharing through a peer-to-peer vehicle sharing platform. "Shared vehicle" does not include a daily rental vehicle as defined in § 58.1-1735 .

"Shared vehicle driver" means an individual who has been authorized to operate a shared vehicle by the shared vehicle owner under a vehicle sharing platform agreement.

"Shared vehicle owner" means the registered owner, or a person or entity designated by the registered owner, of a vehicle made available for sharing to shared vehicle drivers through a peer-to-peer vehicle sharing platform.

"Vehicle sharing delivery period" means the period of time beginning when the agent of a peer-to-peer vehicle sharing platform takes custody of the shared vehicle and ending when the shared vehicle arrives at the location agreed upon in the governing vehicle sharing platform agreement.

"Vehicle sharing period" means the period of time that commences with the vehicle sharing delivery period or, if there is no vehicle sharing delivery period, that commences when the vehicle sharing start time occurs and ends at the vehicle sharing termination time.

"Vehicle sharing platform agreement" means the terms and conditions applicable to a shared vehicle owner and a shared vehicle driver that govern the use of a shared vehicle through a peer-to-peer vehicle sharing platform.

"Vehicle sharing start time" means the time when the shared vehicle becomes subject to the control of the shared vehicle driver at or after the sharing of a shared vehicle is scheduled to begin as documented in the records of a peer-to-peer vehicle sharing platform.

"Vehicle sharing termination time" means the earliest of the following events:

1. When the shared vehicle is delivered to the location agreed upon in the vehicle sharing platform agreement on or after the expiration of the agreed-upon period of time established for the use of a shared vehicle according to the terms of the vehicle sharing platform agreement;

2. When the shared vehicle is returned to a location as alternatively agreed upon by the shared vehicle owner and shared vehicle driver within the agreed-upon period of time as communicated through a peer-to-peer vehicle sharing platform; or

3. When the shared vehicle owner, or the shared vehicle owner's authorized designee, takes possession and control of the shared vehicle.

2020, c. 1266 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-755 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 6 / Article 11 / Section 46.2-755
Limitations on imposition of motor vehicle license taxes and fees
Status: in_force

A. No locality shall impose any motor vehicle license tax or fee on any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer when:

1. A similar tax or fee is imposed by the locality wherein the vehicle is normally garaged, stored, or parked;

2. The vehicle is owned by a nonresident of such locality and is used exclusively for pleasure or personal transportation or as a TNC partner vehicle as defined in § 46.2-2000 and not otherwise for hire or for the conduct of any business or occupation other than that set forth in subdivision 3;

3. The vehicle is (i) owned by a nonresident and (ii) used for transporting into and within the locality, for sale in person or by his employees, wood, meats, poultry, fruits, flowers, vegetables, milk, butter, cream, or eggs produced or grown by him, and not purchased by him for sale;

4. The motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is owned by an officer or employee of the Commonwealth who is a nonresident of such locality and who uses the vehicle in the performance of his duties for the Commonwealth under an agreement for such use;

5. The motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is kept by a dealer or manufacturer for sale or for sales demonstration;

6. The motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is operated by a common carrier of persons or property operating between cities and towns in the Commonwealth and not in intracity transportation or between cities and towns on the one hand and points and places outside cities and towns on the other and not in intracity transportation;

7. The motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is inoperable and unlicensed pursuant to § 46.2-734 ; or

8. The motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer qualifies and is licensed as an antique vehicle pursuant to § 46.2-730 .

B. No locality shall impose a license fee for any one motor vehicle owned and used personally by any veteran who holds a current state motor vehicle registration card establishing that he has received a disabled veteran's exemption from the Department and has been issued a disabled veteran's motor vehicle license plate as prescribed in § 46.2-739 .

C. No locality shall impose any license tax or license fee or the requirement of a license tag, sticker or decal upon any daily rental vehicle, as defined in § 58.1-1735 , the rental of which is subject to the tax imposed by subdivision A 2 of § 58.1-1736 .

D. In the rental agreement between a motor vehicle renting company and a renter, the motor vehicle renting company may separately itemize and charge daily fees or transaction fees to the renter, provided that the amounts of such fees are disclosed at the time of reservation and rental as part of any estimated pricing provided to the renter. Such fees include a vehicle license fee to recover the company's incurred costs in licensing, titling, and registering its rental fleet, concession recovery fees actually charged the company by an airport, or other governmentally owned or operated facility, and consolidated facility charges actually charged by an airport, or other governmentally owned or operated facility for improvements to or construction of facilities at such facility where the motor vehicle rental company operates. The vehicle license fee shall represent the company's good faith estimate of the average per day per vehicle portion of the company's total annual vehicle licensing, titling, and registration costs.

No motor vehicle renting company charging a vehicle license fee, concession recovery fee, or consolidated facility charge may make an advertisement in the Commonwealth that includes a statement of the rental rate for a vehicle available for rent in the Commonwealth unless such advertisement includes a statement that the customer will be required to pay a vehicle license fee, concession recovery fee, or consolidated facility charge. The vehicle license fee, concession recovery fee, or consolidated facility charge shall be shown as a separately itemized charge on the rental agreement. The vehicle license fee shall be described in either the terms and conditions of the rental agreement as the "estimated average per day per vehicle portion of the company's total annual vehicle licensing, titling, and registration costs" or, for renters participating in an extended rental program pursuant to a master rental agreement, by posting such statement on the rental company website.

Any amounts collected by the motor vehicle renting company in excess of the actual amount of its costs incurred relating to its vehicle license fees shall be retained by the motor vehicle renting company and applied toward the recovery of its next calendar year's costs relating to such fees. In such event, the good faith estimate of any vehicle license fee to be charged by the company for the next calendar year shall be reduced to take into account the excess amount collected from the prior year.

E. As used in this section, common carrier of persons or property includes any person who undertakes, whether directly or by lease or any other arrangement, to transport passengers or household goods for the general public by motor vehicle for compensation over the highways of the Commonwealth, whether over regular or irregular routes, that has obtained the required certificate from the Department of Motor Vehicles pursuant to § 46.2-2075 or 46.2-2150 .

Code 1950, § 46-65; 1950, p. 407; 1954, c. 575; 1958, c. 541, § 46.1-66; 1959, Ex. Sess., c. 22; 1976, cc. 5, 339; 1978, c. 188; 1984, c. 156; 1985, c. 123; 1989, c. 727; 1997, cc. 283 , 496 , 853 ; 2006, c. 515 ; 2007, c. 296 ; 2011, cc. 405 , 639 , 881 , 889 ; 2015, cc. 2 , 3 ; 2017, c. 372 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-490.10 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 19 / Section 46.2-490.10
Changes in form of ownership or name
Status: in_force

Any change in the form of ownership or the addition or deletion of a partner shall require a new application and license. The addition or deletion of a clinic site or change in the name of a clinic shall require immediate notification to the Department and the Department may endorse the change on the license as appropriate. The change of an officer or director of a corporation shall be made at the time of license renewal.

2004, c. 622 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2500 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 25 / Section 46.2-2500
Repealed
Status: repealed

Repealed by Acts 2001, c. 596 , cl. 2, effective July 1, 2002.
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-805 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 8 / Article 1 / Section 46.2-805
Lane-use control signals
Status: in_force

A. When lane-use control signals are placed over the individual lanes of a highway, vehicular traffic may travel in any lane over which a green signal is shown, but shall not enter or travel in any lane over which a red signal is shown and shall vacate as soon as possible any lane over which an amber signal is shown.

B. Vehicular traffic shall not enter or travel in a lane over which a one-way or two-way left turn white arrow lane-use control signal is shown, except to make the turning movement indicated by the signal. Such turning traffic shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians lawfully within a crosswalk and to other traffic using the intersection.

1974, c. 347, § 46.1-206.1; 1989, c. 727; 2013, cc. 128 , 400 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-1158 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle III / Chapter 10 / Article 21 / Section 46.2-1158
Frequency of inspection; scope of inspection
Status: in_force

Motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers required to be inspected pursuant to the provisions of § 46.2-1157 shall be reinspected within 12 months of the month of the first inspection and at least once every 12 months thereafter.

Each inspection shall be a complete inspection. A reinspection of a rejected vehicle by the same station during the period of validity of the rejection sticker on such vehicle, however, need only include an inspection of the item or items previously found defective unless there is found an obvious defect that would warrant further rejection of the vehicle.

A rejection sticker shall be valid for 15 calendar days beyond the day of issuance, during which time the operator of the vehicle shall not be charged for a violation of vehicle equipment requirements set forth in Article 3 (§ 46.2-1010 et seq.) through Article 9 (§ 46.2-1066 et seq.) for such vehicle. A complete inspection shall be performed on any vehicle bearing an expired rejection sticker.

The completion of the conversion process for a converted electric vehicle shall invalidate any inspection of such vehicle conducted in accordance with this section prior to the conversion. Following the initial inspection of a converted electric vehicle, as required under § 46.2-602.3 and the provisions of this chapter, such vehicle shall be reinspected in accordance with this section.

1977, c. 655, § 46.1-315.2; 1978, cc. 302, 748; 1982, c. 646; 1989, c. 727; 2012, c. 177 ; 2020, cc. 1230 , 1275 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-2083 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle V / Chapter 20 / Article 6 / Section 46.2-2083
Schedule title page and content
Status: in_force

A. Title page of time schedules shall contain the following:

1. Time schedules must be numbered consecutively in the upper right hand corner, beginning with No. 1, and show the number of the time schedule cancelled thereby, if any.

2. Name of the motor carrier.

3. The termini or points between which the time schedules apply.

4. Date issued and date effective.

5. The name, title, and address of the officer issuing such time schedule, including street address.

B. Time schedules shall show:

1. The time of departure from all termini.

2. The time of departure from intermediate points between termini.

3. What points, if any, on route of carrier at which service cannot be rendered.

2001, c. 596 .
Va. Code Ann. § 46.2-341.32 — Virginia Code / Title 46.2 / Subtitle II / Chapter 3 / Article 6.1 / Section 46.2-341.32
Authority to enter into agreements
Status: in_force

The Department may procure and enter into agreements or arrangements for the purpose of participating in the Commercial Driver License System or any other similar information system established to implement the requirements of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act, and may procure and enter into other agreements or arrangements to carry out the provisions of this article.

1989, c. 705, § 46.1-372.30.