🚗Official 2026 Handbook
Virginia Driver's Handbook 2026
Official Driver's Handbook / DMV Manual published by Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. Available in 1 language.
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Dear New Driver,
This manual covers everything you need to know for safe driving on Virginia roads – from street signs to
railroad crossings to the proper hand placement on your steering wheel.
But what you’re about to read in the next few paragraphs is the most important part of this driver’s
manual – the actions you must take to protect your life while driving.
At the Virginia DMV Highway Safety Office, we study data to understand the driving habits that are most
likely to kill Virginians. Our goal is to use this information to keep you safe. So, please continue reading
and take seriously the things we’ve learned.
Guys – please read extra closely. 71% of all people killed in crashes in 2024 in Virginia were men.
That’s nearly three-quarters of fatalities despite being slightly less than half the population according to
census data. Men are driving too fast, they’re driving under the influence, they’re driving distracted and
they’re not wearing their seat belts. Women do these things too – but our data shows men do them more
and the consequences are deadly.
So, please read on and take these lessons to heart. It could make all the difference in saving your life or
the lives of others on the road.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR LIFE BEHIND THE WHEEL
1. Always wear your seat belt.
In 2024, 50% of vehicle occupants killed in a crash weren’t wearing a seat belt. Wearing a
seat belt greatly increases your chances of surviving a car crash.
2. Plan ahead for a sober ride home if you’re going out drinking.
Drunk driving crashes are 100% preventable yet, in 2024, 318 people died in alcohol-related
crashes in Virginia. Use a rideshare app, call a taxi or designate a non-drinking friend.
Remember, Virginia has a zero-tolerance law for underage drinking.
3. Avoid distractions when driving.
Always keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
When reading or sending a text, your eyes are off the road for five seconds. At 55 mph,
you’ve traveled the length of a football field essentially blindfolded.
4. Follow the posted speed limit.
In 2024, 410 people died in speed-related crashes in Virginia. It’s important to monitor your
speed and drive the speed limit.
5. Keep a safe following distance between you and the car in front of you.
Use the two-, three-, and four-second rule when trying to determine your space behind the
vehicle in front of you. Increase your following distance when road conditions change.
So, as you start your journey toward getting your driver’s license, remember to follow the rules of the road
to keep yourself and others safe. By following these simple steps, you’re not just looking out for yourself
but also helping to reduce the number of crashes, injuries and fatalities on Virginia’s roads. Safety is
everyone’s responsibility and, as a new driver, it’s now yours too.
Safe travels,
Gerald F. Lackey, Ph.D.
DMV Commissioner
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 1
Section 1 – Testing
Two-part knowledge exam .................................................3
Road skills test ...................................................................4
Vision screening .................................................................4
Vision standards ....................................................4
Section 2 – Signals, Signs and
Pavement Markings
Traffic signals......................................................................5
Lane use signals .....................................................6
Traffic signs ........................................................................6
Sign colors .............................................................6
Sign shapes............................................................6
Regulatory signs .....................................................7
Warning signs ........................................................8
Work zones ...........................................................10
Pavement markings ............................................................11
Painted curbs .....................................................................13
Section 3 – Safe Driving
Hand position ....................................................................14
Speed limits .......................................................................14
Stopping ............................................................................15
Yielding the right-of-way ....................................................16
Roundabouts .....................................................................16
Changing lanes ..................................................................17
Passing .............................................................................17
Over-correcting .................................................................18
Turning .............................................................................18
U-turns .............................................................................18
Turn signals ........................................................................18
Maintaining a space cushion ..............................................19
Following distance .................................................19
Virginia Driver’s Manual:
Table of Contents
Searching ...........................................................................19
Blind spots .........................................................................20
Sharing the road ................................................................20
Pedestrians ............................................................20
Bicycles .................................................................20
Motorcycles...........................................................20
Light rail ................................................................20
Low speed vehicles ...............................................21
Trucks, tractor-trailers, buses and RVs ....................21
Light to medium trailers .........................................21
Backing .............................................................................22
Parking .............................................................................22
Visibility .............................................................................22
Lights .................................................................................23
Hazardous conditions ........................................................23
Night driving .........................................................23
Fog ........................................................................23
Rain ......................................................................23
Snow .....................................................................23
Dangerous driving behaviors ..............................................23
Aggressive driving ..................................................23
Distracted driving ..................................................24
Drowsy driving ......................................................24
Drinking and driving ..............................................24
Traffic crashes ....................................................................25
Deer/large animal hazards..................................................25
Traffic stops ........................................................................26
Section 4 – Seat Belts, Airbags, and
Child Safety Seats
Seat belts ...........................................................................26
Air bags .............................................................................27
Child safety seats ...............................................................27
Table of Contents
2 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 5 – Penalties
License suspension ............................................................28
License revocation .............................................................28
Conviction-related suspensions and revocations .................28
Other DMV requirements, suspensions and revocations .....29
Driver Improvement Program ................................29
Medical review program ........................................29
Insurance monitoring program ...............................30
Suspension for failing to satisfy child
support-related requirements ................................30
Alcohol and the law ...........................................................30
Administrative License Suspension .........................30
Open alcohol containers in vehicles ......................30
Transporting children while under the influence
of alcohol/drugs .....................................................30
Vehicle impoundment ...........................................30
Restitution .............................................................30
Alcohol related violations and penalties
involving persons under age 21 .............................30
Section 6 – License Types
Learner’s permit ................................................................31
Driver’s license ..................................................................32
Commercial driver’s license ...............................................32
School bus driver’s license .................................................32
International driver’s license ..............................................32
Section 7 – Other Important
Information
Receiving your license by mail ...........................................33
Address Changes................................................................33
New to Virginia ..................................................................33
Titles, registrations, license plates, decals ............................33
Safety inspections ..............................................................33
Tire safety inspections ........................................................33
Insurance requirements .....................................................34
Applying to register to vote ................................................34
Organ, eye and tissue donation..........................................34
Section 8 – Sample Knowledge Exam
Sample exam .....................................................................35
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 3
In this section you’ll learn about:
Two-part knowledge exam
Road skills test
Vision screening
Vision standards
Tests will include a vision screening and may
include a two-part knowledge exam and a road skills test. A
DMV representative will tell you which tests you need to take.
Two-Part Knowledge Exam
You will need to take the knowledge exam if you do not
hold a valid driver’s license from another U. S. state,
Canada, Germany, France, or the Republic of Korea. The
two-part knowledge exam is given on a computer and tests
your knowledge of traffic signs, motor vehicle laws, and
safe driving. Exam questions are taken from information in
this manual. You must correctly answer all ten traffic sign
questions in part one of the exam before you can take part
two of the exam. Part two tests your general knowledge
with multiple choice questions. You must answer at least 80
percent of these questions correctly to pass part two.
If you fail the exam and you are under age 18, by law you
must wait a full 15 days before you can retake the exam. For
example, if you fail the exam on January 1, the earliest you
can take the exam again is January 17.
Section 1:
Testing
The exam may be taken only once per business day. An
audio version of the exam is available and the exam is offered
in many different languages and American Sign Language.
Therefore, translators may not be used for tests in offered
languages.
If you fail the knowledge exam three times, you will not be
able to take it a fourth time until you complete and pass the
classroom component of driver education.
You may have the option of completing an 8-hour course
based on the Virginia Driver’s Manual and approved by DMV
exclusively for satisfying the three-times-failure requirement.
This course is available at a driver training school and online.
Please see the requirements below based on your age.
Customers age 18 and older may complete a course
based on the Virginia Driver’s Manual. The completion
date of the driver’s manual course must be after the
date that you failed the knowledge exam the third time.
When you successfully complete the course and give
DMV your certificate of completion, you can take the
knowledge exam again.
Customers younger than 18 may complete the course
based on the Virginia Driver’s Manual if they have
previously completed the classroom component of
driver education. Before you can take this course, you
must present your certificate of completion for the
classroom component of driver education to the driver
training school that will be conducting the driver’s
manual course. The completion date of the driver’s
manual course must be after the date that you failed the
knowledge exam the third time. When you successfully
complete the course and give DMV your certificate of
completion, you can take the knowledge exam again.
When testing, you cannot:
get help while taking the exam
help another person taking the exam
try to get test questions or answers before the exam
give another person exam questions or answers
use a cell phone during the exam
A sample knowledge exam is in Section 8 of this manual and
at dmv.virginia.gov.
Services for Persons With Disabilities
Customers with special needs or who require special help
with applications or testing should tell a DMV staff member
at any DMV location.
4 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 1: Testing
Road Skills Test
You will need to take the road skills test if you do not hold
a valid driver’s license from another U. S. state, Canada,
Germany, France, the Republic of Korea, or Taiwan. You must
provide a vehicle for the road skills test (cannot be taken in
an autocycle). The vehicle must have a valid safety inspection
sticker, license plates, registration card and decals, working
brakes, safety belts, horn, lights, turn signals, mirrors and
speedometer.
To take the road skills test, the DMV examiner will require
that you either:
present an acceptable driver’s education certificate of
completion, or
complete a behind-the-wheel checklist (DMV form
CSMA 19 available at dmv.virginia.gov or any DMV
office) that describes specific driving tasks that you may
be asked to perform while taking the road skills test. A
licensed driver will need to certify on the form that he/
she has been with you while you practiced the driving
tasks and that you have complied with all requirements
for learner’s permit holders while operating a motor
vehicle.
For applicants under 18, the road skills test will be given as
part of the driver education course taken at a public, private
or commercial driving school. If you are home schooled, refer
to the Home-Schooled In-Car Driver Education Information
Sheet (HS 3) for more information about taking the road skills
test.
Applicants age 18 or older must hold the learner’s permit for
60 days prior to the first road skills test or complete a course
of driver’s education at a driver training school approved by
DMV or the Department of Education. For applicants who
choose to take driver’s education, the road skills test will be
administered by the driver training school. For those who opt
to hold a learner’s permit for 60 days, the road skills test will
be given by a DMV staff member. The test may be taken only
once per business day. If you fail the road skills test, you must
wait two days to take it again. If you fail the road skills test
at DMV three times, you will not be able to take it a fourth
time until you complete and pass the in-vehicle part of driver
education at a driver training school approved by DMV or
the Department of Education. The completion date for the
in-vehicle part must be after the date you failed the road skills
test the third time. Once you successfully complete the
in-vehicle part and give DMV your certificate of completion,
you can take the road skills test again.
Vision Screening
To screen your vision, a DMV staff member will ask you to
look into a machine and read a series of letters or numbers.
The vision screening is not a medical exam. The screening
shows whether your vision meets Virginia’s standards to safely
drive. If you fail the vision screening, you may be asked to
visit an eye care professional.
If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses to pass the vision
screening, you must wear them when you drive. Your license
will display a C for this restriction. To have this restriction
removed after having laser surgery to correct your vision, you
must visit a DMV customer service center and pass the vision
screening without wearing glasses or contact lenses or submit
a Vision Screening Report (MED 4).
Vision Standards
Driver’s license – unrestricted
20/40 or better vision in one or both eyes, and
110 degrees, or better, horizontal vision in one or both
eyes, or comparable measurement that shows a field of
vision within this range.
Driving – restricted to daylight hours only
20/70 or better vision in one or both eyes, and
70 degrees, or better, horizontal vision. If you have
vision in only one eye, you must have horizontal vision
of at least 30 degrees or better when looking toward
your nose and 40 degrees or better when looking
toward your temple, or comparable measurement that
shows a field of vision within this range.
A daylight driving only restricted license permits you to drive
only during the period of time beginning a half-hour after
sunrise and ending a half-hour before sunset.
Bioptic telescopic lenses: If you wear bioptic telescopic
lenses, read the DMV publication Driver’s Licensing
Information for Bioptic Telescopic Lense Wearers (MED 44)
available at dmv.virginia.gov or contact DMV
at (804) 497-7100.
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 5
In this section you’ll learn about:
Traffic signals
Traffic signs
Pavement markings
Painted curbs
Traffic signals, signs and
pavement markings are used for traffic
control to provide a smooth, orderly flow of traffic. It is
important to understand and obey them. It is illegal to avoid
these traffic controls by cutting through a parking lot or field.
Obey all signs and signals unless directed by a police officer;
always follow the officer’s direction.
Traffic Signals
Traffic signals apply to drivers, motorcycle riders, bicyclists,
moped-riders and pedestrians.
Red light: At a red light, come to a complete stop
at the stop line or, if there is no stop line, before
entering the intersection or before reaching the
crosswalk. Remain stopped as long as the signal is
red, unless turns are allowed.
Right turn on red: You may turn right while the traffic signal
displays a red light. Before turning, you must come to a
complete stop. Look both ways and yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians and other traffic. Be sure to check for less visible
vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles and mopeds.
Section 2:
Signals, Signs and
Pavement Markings
You may not turn right on red if signs are posted at the
intersection that read “No Turn on Red,” or if a red arrow
pointing to the right is displayed.
Left turn on red: You may turn left at a red light if you are on
a one-way street and turning left onto another one-way street
while the traffic signal displays a red light. Before turning, you
must come to a complete stop. Look both ways and yield the
right-of-way to pedestrians and other traffic. Be sure to check
for less visible vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles, and
mopeds. You may not turn left on red if signs are posted at
the intersection that read “No Turn on Red,” or if a red arrow
pointing to the left is displayed.
Red arrow: A red arrow means you must stop if you intend
to move in the direction of the arrow. You may not proceed
in the direction of the arrow as long as the red
arrow is displayed, unless signs are posted at
the intersection that read “Right on Red Arrow
After Stop” or “Left on Red Arrow After Stop.”
Virginia law prohibits right and left turns at red
arrow lights.
Note: If you are traveling in another state, make sure you know
its laws for right and left turns at red and red arrow lights.
Flashing red light: At a flashing red light, come
to a complete stop and yield to oncoming
vehicles and pedestrians. You may go when the
way is clear. At a railroad crossing, you must
come to a complete stop even if you don’t see a
train.
Flashing red arrow: At a flashing red arrow, come to a
complete stop, yield the right-of-way to vehicles coming from
the other direction and pedestrians in the intersection, and
proceed in the direction of the arrow when the way is clear.
Yellow light or arrow: A yellow
light or arrow are cautions warning
that the light is about to change.
If you have not entered the
intersection, stop; or, if unsafe to
stop, cautiously go through it. If
you are already in the intersection, go through it cautiously.
Do not speed up to beat the light.
Flashing yellow light: A flashing yellow light
means slow down and proceed with caution.
Flashing yellow lights are at locations with
higher-than-normal hazardous conditions.
Flashing yellow arrow: At a flashing yellow arrow, you may
turn in the direction of the arrow, if the way is clear. Yield
the right-of-way to vehicles coming from the other direction
and pedestrians in the intersection. Be sure to check for less
visible vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles, and mopeds. If
a traffic light changes from red to flashing yellow arrow while a
pedestrian is in the intersection, allow the pedestrian to cross
the street before turning.
10 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 2: Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings
Pavement markings, consisting of an X and RR, may be
painted on the pavement at the approach to some crossings.
When approaching railroad tracks, be alert. Trains may
approach the
crossing at any
time and from
either direction.
Unless you can
clear the tracks
completely, never
start across the
tracks. Make sure
there is room for
your vehicle on
the other side of
the tracks before
proceeding.
Note: School buses must always stop at railroad crossings,
even when the lights are not flashing.
If a dangerous condition exists at a rail crossing, call the
number listed on the emergency
sign. This will allow the rail
company to stop or reroute
approaching rail traffic until the
hazard is removed. Be sure to give
the posted crossing number so
that the hazard can be identified
correctly.
If your car stalls on the tracks, don’t hesitate. Get out of the
car right away and run diagonally away from the tracks in the
direction of the oncoming train.
In a work zone, the lives of highway workers depend on
drivers like you obeying the posted speed limits and avoiding
distractions. If you are convicted of exceeding the speed limit
in a highway work zone, you may be fined up to $500. If you
are convicted of using a handheld communications device in
a highway work zone, you will be fined $250. Remember, the
color orange marks a work zone and means slow down and be
alert.
Rough Road, Bump, or Uneven Lanes: These signs are used
when certain road conditions, such as loose gravel or road
construction, affect the roadway surface and create potentially
difficult
conditions
for motorists,
especially
motorcyclists.
Road Construction Ahead – Detour: These
signs indicate a change in the traffic pattern
or route ahead. Slow down. Unusual or
potentially dangerous conditions are ahead.
Flashing Arrow Boards: Large flashing arrow
boards or flashing message signs in work
zones direct drivers to proceed into different
traffic lanes and inform them that part of the
road ahead is closed.
Flaggers: Flaggers are highway
workers who normally wear orange
or yellow vests, or yellow-green shirts
or jackets. They use STOP/SLOW
paddles or red flags to stop or direct
traffic through the work zone, and
to let other workers or construction
vehicles cross the road.
Photo Speed Enforcement: This
sign indicates that automated photo
enforcement is in place for speeding in
a work zone. Always obey the posted
speed limit in a work zone.
Traffic Control Devices:
Barricades, vertical signs, concrete
barriers, drums and cones are the most
common devices used to guide drivers
safely through work zones. When
driving near the devices, keep your
vehicle in the middle of the lane and
obey the posted speed limit. As you
leave the work zone, stay in your lane
and maintain your speed. Don’t change
lanes until you are completely clear of
the work zone.
A broken yellow line
alongside a solid yellow
line means that passing is
allowed from the side of
the broken line, but not
from the side of the solid
line.
Vehicles on the solid
yellow line side may only
cross the line to pass
pedestrians, bicyclists,
and riders of scooters or
skateboards, when the
opposite lane is clear and you can pass safely.
Double solid yellow
lines mark the center of
the road and separate
traffic traveling in two
different directions.
Passing is not allowed in
either direction. You may
not cross the lines unless
you are making a left turn
or passing pedestrians,
bicyclists, and riders of
scooters or skateboards,
when the opposite lane
is clear and you can pass
safely.
Broken white lines
separate lanes of traffic
going in the same
direction. You may change
lanes with caution.
Dotted white lines are actually small rectangles in a series
where each is closely spaced to the next. They are used to
show lane assignment in intersections and interchanges where
there might otherwise be a tendency to drift out of a lane or
an area of intended use. Often they are used to guide two
turning lanes through the intersection. Dotted white lines
are also used to denote the opening of a turn lane at an
intersection and entrance/exit lanes at interchanges.
Many two-lane roads in Virginia do not have lane markings
to separate the lanes. On an unmarked two-lane road, you
may pass a slow moving vehicle on the left side if there are no
signs prohibiting passing. Make sure that the way is clear.
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 11
Message Boards: You may see portable or permanent message
boards along roadways. They provide information about traffic,
road, weather or other hazardous conditions. Always obey any
directions posted on these message boards. For information
about road conditions or road construction in advance of your
trip, visit www.virginiadot.org, www.511virginia.org or call 511.
Rumble Strips Ahead signs warn motorists of
black or orange strips placed across the travel
lanes in advance of work zones, including a
flagger or lane closure. Rumble strips should
be slowly driven over, not swerved around.
Slow Moving Vehicles traveling at 25
MPH or less, such as farm equipment, horse-
drawn vehicles or highway work vehicles,
must display these signs when using a public
highway. Be prepared to adjust your speed or
position when you see a vehicle with one of
these signs.
Pavement Markings
Road markings guide and warn drivers as well as regulate
traffic. Markings may be red, yellow or white. They may be
used alone or in combinations. Each has a different meaning.
Red markings are generally not used; but, some communities
do use red curbs to indicate no parking zones.
Red reflectors on the pavement show areas not to be entered
or used. They are positioned on the road surface so that only
traffic flowing in the wrong direction would observe them.
Yellow center lines mean two-way traffic, flowing in
opposite directions.
Broken yellow center
lines mean that passing
on the left is allowed in
either direction when
the way ahead is clear.
Section 2: Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings
Yield line is a line of
triangles extending across
the roadway that may be
used with a yield sign to
show the point at which
you must yield or stop, if
necessary. A yield line is
often seen at the entrance
of a roundabout.
On three-lane roads with traffic moving in both directions,
road markings show when drivers may use the center lane for
making left turns or for passing.
If the center lane is marked by a single broken yellow line
on both sides, drivers traveling in either direction may use
the center lane for passing.
If both sides of the center
lane are marked by a solid
yellow line and a broken
yellow line, drivers traveling
in either direction may use
the lane for making left turns.
However, they may not travel
further than 150 feet in this
lane.
A shared lane marking, or
sharrow, consists of a bicycle
symbol with a double
chevron arrow above it and
is used on travel lanes too
narrow for motor vehicles
and bicycles to share side-by-
side. Sharrows clarify where
bicyclists are encouraged to
ride in the lane and remind
drivers to expect bicyclists
on the road.
Bicycle lanes are indicated by
a solid or dashed white line or
green pavement markings, and
a bicyclist symbol. A bicycle
lane is for the preferential use
of bicyclists. Drivers should not
drive in the bicycle lane except
when necessary to turn left or
right. Before turning, check your
mirrors for bicyclists that may be
behind you and yield to bicycles
in the lane.
12 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 2: Signals, Signs and Pavement Markings
Solid white lines
show turn lanes
and discourage
lane changes near
intersections,
interchange/
on- and off-
ramps, and at
other locations
where lane
changes might be
dangerous. Solid
white lines also
mark the right
edge of pavement.
Arrows used with
white lines indicate which turn may be made from the lane.
Stop lines, crosswalks and parking spaces also are marked by
white lines.
White lane arrows are curved or straight. If you are in a lane
marked with a curved arrow or a curved arrow and the word
ONLY, you must turn in the direction of the arrow. If your lane
is marked with both a curved and straight arrow, you may turn
or go straight.
Wrong-way arrows indicate that traffic
only moves in the direction indicated
by the arrow. If you drive against the
direction of these arrows, you are going
in the wrong direction and could get into
a head-on crash with vehicles headed
your way. Immediately slow down and
pull over.
Double solid white lines separate lanes of traffic going in
the same direction. Most
often they are used to
designate special use
lane from conventional
lanes, as when used
to separate a High
Occupancy Vehicle lanes
from the other lanes of
an expressway. You may
not cross these lines. You
may enter the designated
special use lane only
where signs and markings
allow.
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 13
Bicycle boxes are painted on the road at intersections. They
contain a white bicycle symbol. Bike boxes and the bike
lanes approaching and leaving the box may be painted green.
Drivers must stop for a red traffic signal behind all bicycle
boxes, not inside the box. Bicycle riders will move into the
box in front of drivers at the intersection. Right turns on red
are not allowed at these intersections. If turning right on a
green light, drivers must signal and yield to bicycles on the
right.
Bus-only lanes are indicated
by BUS ONLY markings and/or
red-colored pavement.
High Occupancy Vehicles (HOV)
lanes are marked on highways by
a diamond shape in the center of
the lane. HOV lanes may also be
special lanes separated by a barrier
or solid double white lines. During
heavy traffic periods, HOV
lanes are reserved for
buses, vanpools, carpools,
other high occupancy
vehicles, motorcycles, and
certain clean special fuel
vehicles. Road signs show
the minimum number of
passengers a vehicle must
carry (excluding motorcycles
and clean fuel vehicles) to
use the HOV lanes and
the times that HOV restrictions are in effect. If the lanes are
separated by a barrier, they are reversible. This means that
during certain times of the day, traffic flows one way. During
other times of the day, traffic flows in the opposite direction.
A diamond-shaped marking may also indicate that the lane is
reserved for use as a bus lane.
Toll Plazas and Lanes
All toll facilities in Virginia accept payment using E-ZPass toll
transponders. Transponders allow drivers to pay electronically
without having to stop to pay with cash. If you have a
transponder, as you approach a toll plaza look for and follow
signs with the purple E-ZPass logo. If you do not have a
transponder, as you approach a toll plaza, look for and follow
signs for cash only lanes.
Slow down as you approach toll plazas. Be extra cautious as
you approach, enter, and depart toll plazas. There may be
other drivers changing lanes and/or toll employees crossing
the lanes.
Some toll roads have high speed lanes reserved for vehicles
with E-ZPass transponders. Do not enter those lanes unless
you have a transponder. However, if you do enter one of those
lanes by mistake, do not stop. Stopping is unsafe and could
cause a rear-end crash. Cameras will photograph the car’s
license plate number and the registered vehicle’s owner will be
billed for the toll.
A painted curb means that you must follow special rules to
park there. Check with the locality for specific meanings.
Generally, the colors on the curb mean:
White — Stop only long enough to pick up or drop
off passengers.
Yellow — Stop only long enough to load or unload.
Stay with your car.
Red — Do not stop, stand or park.
24 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 3: Safe Driving
Limit long distance driving. Stop at least every two
hours for rest.
Stop at a safe place and take a nap. As little as 10 to 20
minutes of sleep can make a big difference.
If possible, drive with a companion and switch drivers
when necessary. Always let a well-rested person drive.
Avoid driving from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Rolling down a window, chewing gum, turning up the radio,
or consuming caffeine, energy drinks or other stimulants do
not prevent drowsy driving and are not reliable methods for
staying awake. Drowsy driving is a type of impaired driving
and puts the driver and everyone else on the roadway at risk
for harm. If you observe a drowsy driver, find a safe place to
stop or ask a passenger to call law enforcement. Be able to
describe the location, vehicle and actions you observed.
Drunk and Drugged Driving
Legally, drivers age 21 or older are considered to be driving
under the influence (DUI) if your blood alcohol content
(BAC) is .08 percent or higher. If your driving is impaired, you
can be convicted of driving under the influence with a BAC
lower than .08 percent. If under age 21, you can be convicted
of illegal consumption of alcohol if your BAC is at least .02
but less than .08. If your BAC is .08 or higher you could be
convicted of a DUI. If your driving is impaired because you
are under the influence of any drug, you may face the same
penalties as driving under the influence of alcohol.
Researchers estimate that between the hours of 10 PM and
2 AM three out of every ten drivers are drunk. More than
one-third of these drivers have been drinking at someone
else’s home. Nearly 50 percent of the drivers arrested for
DUI are social to moderate drinkers. Don’t think that it won’t
happen to you. In your lifetime, there’s a 50-50 chance that
you’ll be involved in an alcohol-related crash.
Just one alcoholic drink can affect your driving ability
because even a small amount of alcohol affects the brain’s
functions – particularly vision, judgment, and coordination.
Because alcohol affects your judgment and driving ability,
your chances of being in a crash are seven times greater if you
drive after drinking than if you drive sober.
Twelve ounces of beer is the same as a shot of liquor or a
five-ounce glass of wine.
Only time can decrease intoxication. Coffee, cold showers or
exercise will not sober you up.
Alcohol-related crashes are not accidents. They can be
prevented! The only way to avoid the risks of drinking and
driving is to decide before you start drinking that you are not
going to drive. Remember, alcohol affects judgment. Making
the decision not to drive is a lot more difficult after one or
two drinks.
Distracted Driving
Driving requires your full attention. There are many
distractions that may prevent drivers from focusing on
driving: changing the music selection/podcast/GPS, talking to
passengers, observing outside surroundings, eating, using a
cell phone and more. When on the road, drivers should not
use cell phones, computers or other distracting devices except
to report a crash or emergency. Before engaging in distracting
behavior, pull over and stop the vehicle in a safe location.
Virginia law prohibits drivers from holding cell phones or
any other wireless communication devices while driving
except in a driver emergency or the vehicle is lawfully parked
or stopped. A mobile phone or other telecommunications
device may be used for navigation, as long as the driver is not
entering information or holding it while driving.
Annually, driver distraction accounts for roughly 17 percent
of all traffic crashes in Virginia. Why is distracted driving so
deadly? Because while the driver is distracted, the vehicle may
move into a high risk situation. The driver then loses precious
seconds before recognizing the situation and must make an
emergency maneuver. Young distracted drivers are even more
susceptible. Failure to maintain proper control, following too
closely, and not yielding the right-of-way are common actions
of young distracted drivers. Inexperience in handling or
controlling a vehicle during an emergency situation combined
with distracted driving (cell phone use, other passengers, eyes
not on the road, etc.) puts them at greater risk of a crash.
Don’t let this happen to you. Take the following precautions.
Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the
wheel at all times.
Set or adjust the controls on the vehicle and other
devices as soon as you get in the car and before you
begin driving.
Do not use a cell phone.
Drowsy Driving
Constant yawning, head nodding, heavy eyelids, difficulty
remembering the last few miles driven, missing road signs or
exits, unplanned lane changes, driving off the road or hitting
rumble strips are all signs of drowsy driving. Driving while you
are sleepy increases your crash risk as you struggle to process
complex information coming from different places at once.
You may make careless driving decisions, have trouble paying
attention or actually fall asleep while driving.
To avoid drowsy driving:
Get plenty of quality sleep before a trip.
Avoid alcoholic beverages and heavy foods.
Beware of medications that can impair your driving
ability.
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 25
When attending a social event where alcohol will be
consumed, plan ahead for a sober ride home by using
alternative transportation or having a sober driver.
Combining alcohol with other drugs usually multiplies the
effects of both and can have a disastrous effect on your
ability to drive. One drink taken when you are on another
drug – even an aspirin, or allergy or cold medicine – could
have the same effect on your driving ability as drinking several
alcoholic beverages.
Almost any drug can reduce your ability to drive safely.
It’s not just illegal drugs that cause problems. Many over-the-
counter medications and prescription drugs for headaches,
hay fever, colds, allergies or nervous conditions can cause
drowsiness and dizziness. This includes syrups, drops, sprays,
pills and tablets. They often affect driver alertness and slow
reaction time. Although the possession of marijuana and
marijuana products (over the age of 21) is legal, driving
under the influence of marijuana is still illegal. Smoking or
consuming cannabis will affect how you drive.
Read the label before taking any drug or medicine. Look for
warnings about side effects. If you’re uncertain about the
effects of a drug, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.
Remember that, while the effects may vary among users, no
drug is harmless.
Traffic Crashes
If you are involved in a traffic crash, you must:
stop at the scene of the crash or as close to the scene
as possible without blocking traffic. Drivers must move
vehicles from the road immediately if the vehicles are
able to be moved, no one is injured and the driver is
capable of safely doing so.
be careful when exiting your vehicle. Keep your vehicle
between you and moving traffic if possible.
give any help you can if someone is injured. Do not
attempt to move an injured person from a wrecked
vehicle unless you have the necessary medical training
or there is an immediate danger such as fire.
report the crash to the police as quickly as possible.
Motor vehicle crashes involving property damage,
personal injury or death must be reported to the police.
exchange information with other people involved
in the crash as soon as possible. Be sure to get the
following information:
name, address and driver’s license number of
other drivers
license plate numbers of other vehicles
name and address of anyone who was injured
name and address of each witness
name, address and insurance policy number of
other vehicle owners
notify your insurance company immediately.
Law enforcement officers are required to forward a written
crash report to DMV when a traffic crash results in injury or
the death of any person or total property damage is in excess
of $3,000. All crash information will be recorded on the DMV
records of each driver involved in the crash.
You must make a reasonable effort to find the owner of an
unattended vehicle or other property damaged in a crash.
If you cannot locate anyone, leave a note that can be found
easily at the scene of the crash. Include your name, telephone
number, the date and time of the crash, and a description
of the damage. You must also report the crash to the police
within 24 hours.
Deer/Large Animal Hazards
Tens of thousands of crashes with deer, elk, and bears take
place in Virginia each year, resulting in fatalities, injuries and
costly vehicle damage. To avoid hitting a deer or other large
animal:
Be alert at dusk and dawn especially in the fall.
Slow down if you see a large animal near or crossing the
road. Large animals frequently travel in groups; there
are likely others nearby.
Use the horn to scare the animal away.
If a collision with a deer or other animal is unavoidable,
do not swerve. Brake firmly, stay in your lane, and come
to a controlled stop.
If you hit a large animal, report it to law enforcement.
26 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 4: Seat Belts, Air Bags and Child Safety Seats
Wearing seat belts, also called safety belts,
can double your chances of surviving a crash and more than
double your chances of avoiding serious injury.
Seat Belts
Under Virginia law, the driver and all passengers, both
front and rear, must wear safety belts. A driver transporting
anyone younger than age 18 must ensure that the passenger
is properly secured in a safety belt, booster seat or child safety
seat no matter where the child is seated in the vehicle.
Remember to wear your lap belt low on your lap and against
your thighs. Wear your shoulder belt over your shoulder and
across your chest. Never wear your shoulder belt behind your
back or under your arm. Your shoulder and lap belts should
be snug. Pregnant women are much safer if buckled up by
wearing the belt as low on the pelvis as possible.
Exception: A waiver of the seat belt requirement may be
granted by a licensed physician if the use of a safety belt is
not reasonable due to the driver’s or passenger’s physical or
medical condition. The person granted the waiver must carry
the physician’s signed written statement identifying the person
with the waiver and the reason for the waiver.
Section 4:
Seat Belts, Air Bags and
Child Safety Seats
In this section you’ll learn about:
Seat belts
Air bags
Child safety seats
Traffic Stops
If you are stopped by a police officer:
Remain calm.
Pull your vehicle to the side of the road in a safe
location and park.
Stay in your vehicle. Do not get out unless the officer
asks you to.
Turn on your flashers.
If you are pulled over at night, turn on your vehicle’s
interior lights.
Turn off your engine, radio, and any other device that
could block communication with the officer.
Roll down your window so that you can communicate
with the officer. An officer may approach your vehicle
on the driver or passenger side for safety reasons.
Keep your safety belt fastened and ask your passengers
to keep their belts fastened.
Keep your hands in plain view, preferably on the
steering wheel. Ask your passengers to keep their
hands in plain view also.
Do not make any movement that will make the officer
think you are hiding or reaching for something.
Carry proper identification: a valid driver’s license,
proof of vehicle registration and proof of insurance. If
the officer asks for these documents, tell him where
they are and reach for them slowly, keeping one hand
on the steering wheel.
If the officer is driving an unmarked car or is not in
uniform, you may ask to see his or her identification.
Answer the officer’s questions fully and clearly. If you
disagree with the officer, do not discuss your point of
view at that time. You will have your chance to make
your case in court.
You will be asked to sign the citation. Sign the citation;
this is not an admission of guilt. Refusal to sign the
citation may result in your arrest. Or, you may be
required to go to the police station.
A waiver of the child restraint law may be granted by
a licensed physician if using a child restraint would be
unreasonable due to the child’s weight, physical fitness
or other medical reasons. The person responsible for
transporting this child must carry the signed written
statement by the physician identifying the child and stating
the grounds for the waiver.
The driver is responsible for making sure that children are
properly secured. If you are convicted of violating the child
restraint law, you will be fined $50. A second or subsequent
offense could mean a $500 penalty.
When traveling with children:
The safest place to install a child safety seat is in the
center of the back seat.
Numerous child safety seat checks are held in localities
across Virginia. Attend one of these checks to make
sure that your child’s safety seat is installed correctly.
Visit www.vdh.virginia.gov for more information.
Never hold a child in your lap. In a crash, the
child may be crushed between your body and the
dashboard or the back of the seat.
Make sure that all car doors are securely closed and
locked before driving. If your car is equipped with
a child safety lock, turn it on. Don’t allow children
to play with door handles or locks. If you must open
a door, pull the vehicle off the road and come to a
complete stop.
Never allow children to ride in the luggage area of
hatchbacks, station wagons or vans.
Never leave a hatchback open when a child is riding in
the back seat.
It is illegal to transport children under age 16 in the
bed of a pickup truck, even if equipped with a camper
shell.
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 27
Air Bags
Air bags, when used properly with safety belts, cushion drivers
and passengers as they move forward in a front-end crash.
By providing a cushion, the air bag keeps the head, neck and
chest from hitting the steering column or dashboard, and
reduces the force of impact.
If your vehicle is equipped with air bags:
Always buckle up and have all passengers in the vehicle
buckle up.
Move your seat back so that you are at least ten inches
from the steering wheel.
If your steering wheel is adjustable, tilt it downward.
This points the air bag toward your chest instead of your
head and neck.
Children ages 12 and under are safer buckled up in the
back seat.
For more information about air bags, including applying for
an on/off switch, contact the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) at www.nhtsa.dot.gov or toll-free
hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
Child Safety Seats
Securing a child in a correctly installed child safety seat can
significantly reduce the possibility of death or injury.
All children under age 8 must be properly secured in a
child safety seat or booster seat when riding in vehicles
manufactured after January 1, 1968. Children should ride
rear facing from birth to 2 years, or as long as the safety seat
manufacturer allows. If the vehicle does not have a back seat,
a rear facing child seat may be placed in the front passenger
seat if the vehicle is not equipped with a passenger side air
bag or if the passenger air bag is turned off. Children should
ride facing forward in a child safety seat or booster seat until
at least age 8, or until they can attain a proper seat belt fit.
Criteria for sitting without a booster seat:
Lap belt lies snugly across the upper thighs
Shoulder belt lies snugly across the shoulder and chest
Tall enough to sit without slouching
Able to keep knees naturally bent over the edge of the
vehicle seat
Able to sit all the way back against the vehicle seat back
Able to keep feet flat on the floor
Able to sit this way for entire trip
30 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 5: Penalties
Open Alcohol Containers in Vehicles
You may be charged with drinking while operating a motor
vehicle if you:
are stopped by law enforcement and you have an open
container of alcohol in the passenger area and the
contents have been partially removed, and
show signs that you have been drinking
The passenger area means the area that seats the driver and
passengers and any area within the driver’s reach, including
an unlocked glove compartment.
Transporting Children While Under the
Influence of Alcohol/Drugs
Conviction of any DUI offense involving a juvenile passenger
(age 17 or younger) in the vehicle at the time of the offense
carries an additional mandatory five-day jail term plus all
other fines and jail sentences. You may also be charged
an additional fine of at least $500 and up to $1,000. A
second DUI offense with a juvenile in the vehicle carries an
additional 80-hour community service requirement plus all
other fines and jail sentences.
Vehicle Impoundment
Your vehicle will be impounded immediately for 30 days if
you are caught driving after your license has been suspended
for an alcohol-related offense. The court can impound the
vehicle for an additional 90 days if you are convicted.
Also, your vehicle will be impounded by law enforcement if
you operate a motor vehicle without a license after you have
previously been convicted of driving without a license. The
vehicle will remain impounded until you obtain a license or
for three days, whichever is less.
Restitution
Depending on the laws of the city or county in which you
are driving, you may be responsible for paying the cost (up
to $1,000) for law enforcement, emergency medical services,
fire fighters and rescue personnel who respond to a crash or
incident resulting from your DUI violation.
Alcohol Related Violations and Penalties
Involving Persons Under Age 21
Purchasing/Consuming Alcohol: If you are under age 21,
you cannot purchase, possess or consume alcohol. If you are
convicted of driving after illegally consuming alcohol, and
your BAC was at least .02 percent and less than .08 percent,
the court penalty will include:
a suspension of your driving privilege for one year from
the date of conviction, and
a minimum mandatory fine of $500, or
the requirement that you complete at least 50 hours of
community service.
you do not submit the requested insurance policy
information to verify that you have liability insurance
coverage
there is a break in your insurance policy coverage and
you do not return your license plates to DMV
Refer to dmv.virginia.gov for more detailed information on
Insurance Monitoring activities by DMV.
Suspensions for Failing to Satisfy Child
Support-Related Requirements
The Division of Child Support Enforcement will direct DMV
to suspend your driving privilege if you:
are late making child support payments by 90 days or
$5,000, or
fail to appear in court or comply with a subpoena,
summons or warrant related to paternity or child
support hearings
Refer to the DMV website under Reinstatement for
information on eligibility for restricted driving privileges and
requirements to reinstate your driving privilege.
Alcohol and the Law
If you are arrested for drinking and driving, the penalties are
severe. If the police have probable cause to stop you and
suspect that you have been drinking or using drugs, they will
ask you to take a breath or blood test. Under implied consent
laws, if you operate a motor vehicle on Virginia’s public
roads, you agree to take a breath test upon request. If you
are involved in a motor vehicle crash and a law enforcement
officer has probable cause, you can be arrested for DUI
within three hours of the crash without a warrant and at any
location.
Administrative License Suspension
If you refuse a breath test or your BAC is .08 percent or
higher while you are driving and law enforcement charges
you with driving while under the influence of alcohol/drugs,
your driving privilege will be automatically suspended:
for seven days, for a first offense
for 60 days or until you go to trial, whichever comes
first, for a second offense
until the trial, for a third DUI offense
If you are convicted of DUI, the court and DMV will impose
a suspension/revocation and other penalties in addition to
the administrative license suspension. If you receive multiple
DUI convictions, the suspension/revocation periods will run
consecutively.
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 31
In this section you’ll learn about:
Learner’s Permit
Driver’s License
Commercial Driver’s License
School Bus Driver’s License
Motorcycle Learner’s Permit
Motorcycle Driver’s License
International Driver’s License
Whenever you drive, you must carry a
valid driver’s license or learner’s permit with you. Any misuse
of your driver’s license or learner’s permit is illegal. You could
be fined, sentenced to jail, or your license may be suspended.
Learner’s Permit
A learner’s permit allows you to operate a motor vehicle
when a licensed driver at least 21 years of age is seated in the
front passenger seat. The driver with you must hold a valid
driver’s license, be alert and able to assist you while you are
driving. The licensed driver with you may be age 18, 19, or
20 if he or she is your legal guardian, brother, sister, half-
brother, half-sister, step brother or stepsister. If you are age
19 or older, you must hold a learner’s permit for 60 days, or
present a driver’s education certificate of completion to apply
for a driver’s license. For more information about obtaining
a learner’s permit, refer to the Parents in the Driver’s Seat
(DMV 16) publication available at dmv.virginia.gov and
DMV customer service centers.
Section 6:
License Types
If you are convicted of driving after illegally consuming
alcohol and your BAC was .08 percent or higher, you may
face the same penalties as an adult.
Providing Alcoholic Beverages: If you provide or sell
alcoholic beverages to a person under age 21 or someone
who is intoxicated or ordered by a court to refrain from
drinking alcohol, you are subject to a fine up to $2,500,
mandatory suspension of your driver’s license for up to one
year, and 12 months in jail.
Misrepresentation of Age: If you are under age 21 and you
use or attempt to use a fake ID to establish a false age in an
attempt to drink or purchase alcohol, you will:
be fined at least $500
be required to perform at least 50 hours of community
service
face up to 12 months in jail, and
face mandatory suspension of your driver’s license for at
least six months but not more than one year
Virginia has a zero tolerance law against underage
drinking
32 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 6: License Types
Driver’s License
A driver’s license allows you to operate any vehicle or
small truck less than 26,001 pounds that is exempt from
commercial driver’s license (CDL) requirements. For more
information about obtaining a driver’s license, refer to
the publication Obtaining a Virginia Driver’s License or
Identification Card (DMV 141) available at dmv.virginia.gov
or DMV customer service centers.
Commercial Driver’s License
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) allows you to operate
tractor-trailers, passenger buses, tank vehicles, school buses
for 16 or more occupants (including the driver), or vehicles
carrying hazardous materials. For more information about
CDL, refer to the Commercial Driver License Manual (DMV
60V and DMV 60A) available at dmv.virginia.gov under
forms or any DMV customer service center.
School Bus Driver’s License
If you wish to operate a school bus designed to carry 15
occupants (including the driver), you do not need to obtain
a commercial driver’s license. However, you will need to
take the commercial driver and school bus tests to obtain the
school bus endorsement on your driver’s license. You will
be restricted to driving a bus designed to carry 15 occupants
(including the driver). This restriction will be printed on your
license. For more information about licensing requirements
to operate larger school buses, refer to Commercial Driver
License Manual (DMV 60V and DMV 60A) available at
dmv.virginia.gov under forms or any DMV customer service
center.
International Driver’s License
An international driver’s license is not a valid driver’s
license and does not allow you to drive. It is only a foreign
translation of your existing valid driver’s license to be used
when you are traveling outside of the U.S. These permits
are issued by your local AAA, except to persons whose
driving privilege is suspended or revoked.
If you are visiting the U.S. from a foreign country, you
may drive using your driver’s license issued by your home
country. Your home country driver’s license should be
accompanied by a translation of the license.
International driver’s licenses marketed by private sector
businesses are not valid and do not allow you to legally
operate a motor vehicle. Sale of any document claiming to
be a driver’s license is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 33
Whether you are learning to drive
for the first time, new to Virginia or brushing up on your safe
driving knowledge, there are additional requirements that all
Virginia drivers should know.
Receiving License by Mail
You will receive your new driver’s license in the mail. For
security, DMV does not issue licenses in customer service
centers.
Address Changes
If you move, you are required to notify DMV within 30 days.
The postal service will not forward your license to another
address. If DMV does not have your correct address, the
postal service will return the license to DMV.
New to Virginia
If you are a new Virginia resident and drive, you must obtain
a Virginia driver’s license within 60 days of moving here.
Titles, Registrations, License Plates,
Decals
Title and register your vehicle and obtain Virginia license
plates within 30 days of moving to Virginia. License plates
must be displayed on the front and rear of the vehicle. Decals
indicating the month and year that the registration expires
must be placed in the designated areas on the plates (except
for vehicles displaying permanent plates).
You must have the vehicle registration card with you when
operating the vehicle. You must also register your vehicle
in your locality, if required. Check with your city or county
government.
Safety Inspections
Your vehicle must pass an annual vehicle safety inspection
and display a valid safety inspection sticker. In certain
localities, your vehicle also must pass an emissions inspection.
For more information about Virginia safety inspections, visit
the Virginia State Police website at www.vsp.virginia.gov.
Tire Safety Inspection
Once every month, or before a long road trip, check your
tires for wear and damage problems by using the penny test.
1. Take a penny and hold Abraham Lincoln’s body
between your thumb and forefinger.
Section 7:
Other Important
Information
In this section you’ll learn about:
Receiving your license by mail
Address changes
New to Virginia
Titles, registrations, license plates, decals
Safety inspections
Insurance requirements
Applying to register to vote
Organ, eye and tissue donation
34 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 7: Other Important Information
2. Select a point on your tire where the tread appears
to be lowest and place Lincoln’s head into one of the
grooves.
3. If any part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread,
you’re driving with the safe amount of tread. If your
tread gets below that, your car’s ability to grip the road
in adverse conditions is greatly reduced.
Prior to entering the vehicle, check tire pressure using a tire
pressure gauge. The recommended PSI (pounds per square
inch) is located in the vehicle owner’s manual or the driver’s
side door jamb of the vehicle.
Insurance Requirements
To register a vehicle and obtain license plates, you must have
liability insurance or pay the $500 uninsured motor vehicle
fee. Insure your vehicle with a company authorized to do
business in Virginia. At a minimum, your insurance policy
must provide the following liability insurance coverage:
Insurance companies may factor in their policy premium the
driving records of any individual of driving age that resides
within an insured’s household. If you have any questions
regarding the potential impact a newly licensed driver may
have on your policy, you may wish to contact your insurance
agent.
In some cases, liability insurance requirements may be higher.
Refer to dmv.virginia.gov for more information about DMV’s
Insurance Verification Program and Financial Responsibility
Certifications.
Paying the uninsured motor vehicle fee does not provide
insurance coverage, but it allows you to register and operate
the vehicle in Virginia for a one-year period.
Insure your Virginia-registered vehicle during the entire
registration period even if it is not driven or is inoperable.
Before you cancel your insurance, return the license plates to
DMV and cancel the registration.
If you are caught driving without insurance and you did not
pay the uninsured motor vehicle fee, DMV will suspend your
driving privilege until you:
pay a $600 noncompliance fee or apply and be
approved for a payment plan, and
have your insurance company file a certificate that you
have a policy with the required coverage limits. You will
have to file this certificate of insurance for three years
from the date you regain your driving privileges.
Applying to Register to Vote
You may apply to register to vote or to change your voter
registration mailing address at any DMV office. Indicate your
intentions on the voter registration section of the driver’s
license application. To apply to register to vote in Virginia, you
must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of Virginia, and be at least
18 years old by the next general election. You must have had
your voting rights restored by a circuit court if you have been
convicted of a felony or if you have been declared mentally
incompetent.
To check your voter registration status, contact your local
registrar or the Department of Elections at 1-800-552-9745
or TTY 711.
Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation
To sign up to be a donor and save lives, check yes on your
driver’s license, learners permit, or ID card application. For
more information about organ, eye, and tissue donation or to
sign up online, visit www.donatelifevirginia.org.
If you are age 18 or older, your registered decision to be a
donor will be honored. If you are under age 18, you can
indicate your wishes to donate by checking yes; by law, your
parents and guardians must make the final decision. It is
important for all ages to share your decision to be a donor
with your friends and family.
Liability Insurance Coverage Requirements
Injury or
death of one
person
Injury or
death of
two or more
people
Property
damage
Policies effective
before Jan. 1,
2022
$25,000 $50,000 $20,000
Policies effective
on or after
Jan. 1, 2022 $30,000 $60,000 $20,000
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 35
Section 8:
Sample Knowledge Exam
1. This road sign means:
a. Warning of a hazard.
b. Yield right-of-way.
c. Railroad crossing.
d. Speed limit.
2. This road sign means:
a. No U-turn.
b. Curve.
c. Turn right or left.
d. Traffic flows only in the direction
of the arrow.
3. This road sign means:
a. Right lane ends soon, merge left.
b. Soft shoulders.
c. Low place in the road.
d. Lane ends soon, merge right.
4. This road sign means:
a. Church.
b. First aid station.
c. Intersection.
d. Railroad crossing.
5. This road sign means:
a. You may turn during the red light.
b. Pass only in the right lane.
c. One way street.
d. Do not turn during the red light.
6. If you drive after drinking, be aware that alcohol affects:
a. Your coordination.
b. Your vision.
c. Your judgment.
d. All of these.
7. If you are driving on an icy or slippery road and have to
stop:
a. Apply brakes gently.
b. Apply brakes in a normal manner.
c. Keep foot off brake and let compression stop you.
d. Press brakes firmly.
8. The correct hand signal for stopping is:
a. Right hand and arm pointing downward.
b. Left hand and arm pointing straight out.
c. Left hand and arm pointing downward.
d. Left hand and arm pointing upward.
9. When a school bus stops to load or unload children,
vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus must:
a. Slow down and proceed with caution.
b. Maintain speed.
c. Stop, then proceed with caution.
d. Stop until all persons are clear and the bus
moves again.
10. If you are involved in a crash, you must:
a. Take the person to the nearest hospital.
b. Continue home and file a crash report.
c. Stop, help any injured, report the crash to the
police, exchange information and notify your
insurance company.
d. Check your car for damages.
Answers on next page.
36 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 8: Sample Knowledge Exam
Correct Answers
1. A, 2. D, 3. A, 4. C, 5. D,
6. D, 7. A, 8. C, 9. D, 10. C
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
P. O. Box 27412
Richmond, Virginia 23269
(804) 497-7100
This manual is an informational tool. It does not supercede
the Code of Virginia, Virginia Administrative Code or any
other statute. To view Virginia’s motor vehicle laws, refer to
the Virginia Code, Title 46.2.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the Virginia DMV written test?
The Virginia (VA) DMV written knowledge test typically consists of 20–50 multiple-choice questions. The exact number varies — check the official Virginia DMV website for the current format.
What topics are covered in the Virginia driver's handbook?
The Virginia driver's handbook covers traffic laws and regulations, road signs and signals, safe driving practices, right-of-way rules, speed limits, DUI/DWI laws, and vehicle operation requirements specific to Virginia.
Is the Virginia driver's handbook available in Spanish?
Many states provide their driver's handbook in multiple languages. Download links for all available languages — including Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and more — are listed above on this page.
How do I pass the Virginia DMV written test?
Study the official Virginia driver's handbook thoroughly, then take free practice tests at DMVSOS.com to reinforce what you've learned. Most test-takers who study the full handbook and complete several practice tests pass on their first attempt.