Driving Laws and Penalties in Virginia

What happens if you break certain driving laws in VA?

Your driving privilege may be suspended or revoked by the court and/or DMV.

What does license suspension mean?

Your privilege to drive is withdrawn temporarily. Reinstatement requires fees and proof of legal presence.

What does revocation mean?

Your driving privilege is terminated. You must reapply and pass all exams to restore it.

Name an offense that leads to license suspension or revocation in VA.

DUI

Can reckless or aggressive driving result in license revocation?

Yes

What is the Driver Improvement Program?

DMV monitors demerit points and may require driver improvement clinics.

What happens after 1st offense under age 18?

Must complete a clinic or license is suspended.

What happens after 2nd offense under age 18?

90-day license suspension.

What happens after 3rd offense under age 18?

License revoked for 1 year or until age 18

What happens if an adult gets 12 points in 12 months?

Must complete driver improvement clinic.

What happens with 18 points in 12 months (adults)?

90-day suspension and required clinic.

What conditions can lead to a DMV medical review?

Issues with consciousness

What actions can DMV take after medical review?

Suspend

Why would DMV suspend your license related to insurance?

No proof of coverage or lapse in insurance without returning plates.

Why would child support issues suspend your license?

Owing $5,000

What is the administrative license suspension for 1st DUI?

7 days.

For 2nd DUI?

60 days or until trial.

For 3rd DUI?

Until trial.

What’s the penalty for DUI with a child in the car?

5-day jail + $500–$1000 fine. 2nd offense adds 80 hours of community service.

What happens to your car if caught driving after alcohol-related suspension?

Impounded for 30 days; possibly 90 more after conviction.

What if driving without a license after prior conviction?

Vehicle impounded until licensed or for 3 days.

Can you be charged for open alcohol containers?

Yes

What is DUI restitution?

Up to $1,000 for personnel who respond to a crash or incident resulting from your DUI violation.

What’s the penalty for BAC .02–.08 if under 21?

1-year suspension

What if under 21 BAC is .08+?

You may face adult DUI penalties.

What’s the penalty for providing alcohol to minors or intoxicated persons?

$2,500

Penalty for fake ID under 21?

$500 fine