Virginia Driver Licence Manual

The Virginia Driver’s Manual will help you learn and
understand safe driving practices. Study this manual to prepare for the knowledge
test, obtain a Virginia driver’s license and become a safe driver.
The information contained in this manual should be used as a general guide to the
motor vehicle laws but not as a substitute for the Code of Virginia, which contains
the laws that govern Virginia drivers and vehicles.
If you are learning to drive, this manual will give you information you need to study
for the knowledge exam. If you already have a Virginia driver’s license, review this
manual for new laws or rules of the road.
Driving is a privilege, not a right. Your driver’s license carries with it a great
responsibility to be courteous of other drivers on the roadways and follow state and
federal motoring laws.
This manual is also available on the DMV website, www.dmvNOW.com.
DMV offers the Virginia Driver’s Manual in an audio format for Virginians with
special needs. The audio version is available at www.dmvNOW.com.
Virginia Driver’s Manual:
Table of Contents
Section 1 – Testing Blind spots..........................................................................19

Two-part knowledge exam..................................................3 Sharing the road.................................................................19
Road skills test....................................................................4 Pedestrians.............................................................19
Vision screening..................................................................4 Bicycles..................................................................19
Vision standards.....................................................4 Mopeds..................................................................19
Motorcycles............................................................19
Light rail.................................................................20
Section 2 – Signals, Signs and Low speed vehicles................................................20
Trucks, tractor-trailers, buses and RVs.....................20
Pavement Markings Light to medium trailers..........................................20
Traffic signals.......................................................................5
Backing ..............................................................................21
Lane use signals......................................................6
Parking ..............................................................................21
Traffic signs.........................................................................6
Visibility..............................................................................21
Sign shapes............................................................6
Lights..................................................................................21
Regulatory or guide signs........................................7
Hazardous conditions.........................................................21
Warning signs.........................................................8
Night driving..........................................................21
Work zones............................................................10
Fog.........................................................................22
Pavement markings.............................................................10
Rain.......................................................................22
Painted curbs......................................................................12
Snow......................................................................22
Dangerous driving behaviors...............................................22
Aggressive driving...................................................22
Section 3 – Safe Driving Distracted driving...................................................22
Hand position.....................................................................13
Drowsy driving.......................................................23
Speed limits........................................................................14
Drinking and driving...............................................23
Stopping.............................................................................14
Traffic crashes.....................................................................24
Yielding the right-of-way.....................................................15
Traffic stops.........................................................................24
Roundabouts......................................................................15
Changing lanes...................................................................16
Passing ..............................................................................16
Over-correcting..................................................................17
Section 4 – Seat Belts, Airbags, and
Turning ..............................................................................17 Child Safety Seats
U-turns ..............................................................................17 Seat belts............................................................................25
Turn signals.........................................................................17 Air bags ..............................................................................25
Maintaining a space cushion...............................................18 Child safety seats................................................................26
Following distance..................................................18
Searching............................................................................18
V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L | 1
Table of Contents
Section 5 – Penalties
License suspension.............................................................27
License revocation..............................................................27
Conviction-related suspensions and revocations..................27
Other DMV requirements, suspensions and revocations......28
Driver Improvement Program.................................28
Medical review program.........................................28
Insurance monitoring program................................29
Suspension for failing to satisfy child
support-related requirements.................................29
Alcohol and the law............................................................29
Administrative License Suspension..........................29
Open alcohol containers in vehicles.......................29
Transporting children while under the influence
of alcohol/drugs......................................................29
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...................................................................31
Commercial driver’s license................................................32
School bus driver’s license..................................................32
Motorcycle learner’s permit................................................32
Motorcycle 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...............................................................34
Insurance requirements......................................................34
Applying to register to vote.................................................34
Organ, eye and tissue donation...........................................34
Section 8 – Sample Knowledge Exam

Sample exam......................................................................35
2 | V I R G I N I A D R I V E R ’ S M A N U A L
Section 1:
Testing
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

In this section you’ll learn about:
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,
Road skills test
Germany or France. The two-part knowledge exam is given
Vision screening on a computer and tests your knowledge of traffic signs,
Vision standards 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.
Age 18 or older – you must pay a $2.00 fee if you
retake the exam within 15 days.
The exam may be taken only once per business day. An audio
version of the exam is available and the exam is also offered
in Spanish. If necessary, you may request to have the exam
translated.
If you fail the driver’s license knowledge exam three times,

you will not be able to take it a fourth time until you
complete and pass the classroom part of driver education at a
Section 1: Testing
driver training school approved by DMV or the Department of Vision Screening

Education. The completion date for the classroom part must
be after the date you failed the knowledge exam the third To screen your vision, a DMV staff member will ask you to
time. When you successfully complete the classroom part and look into a machine and read a series of letters or numbers.
give DMV your certificate of completion, you can take the The vision screening is not a medical exam. The screening
knowledge exam again. shows whether your vision meets Virginia’s standards to safely
drive. If you fail the vision screening, you may be asked to
When testing, you cannot: visit an eye care professional.
get help while taking the exam
If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses to pass the vision
help another person taking the exam
screening, you must wear them when you drive. Your license
try to get test questions or answers before the exam will display an X for this restriction. To have this restriction
give another person exam questions or answers removed after having laser surgery to correct your vision, you
use a cell phone during the exam must visit a DMV customer service center and pass the vision
screening without wearing glasses or contact lenses or submit
A sample knowledge exam is in Section 8 of this manual and a Vision Screening Report (MED 4).
at www.dmvNOW.com.
Vision Standards
Services for Persons With Disabilities Driver’s license – unrestricted
Customers with special needs or who require special help 20/40 or better vision in one or both eyes, and
with applications or testing should tell a DMV staff member 100 degrees, or better, horizontal vision in one or both
at any DMV location. eyes, or comparable measurement that shows a field of
vision within this range.
Driving – restricted to daylight hours only

Road Skills Test
20/70 or better vision in one or both eyes, and
You will need to take the road skills test if you do not hold a 70 degrees, or better, horizontal vision. If you have
valid driver’s license from another U. S. state, Canada, vision in only one eye, you must have horizontal vision
Germany or France. You must provide a vehicle for the road of at least 30 degrees or better when looking toward
skills test. The vehicle must have a valid safety inspection your nose and 40 degrees or better when looking
sticker, license plates, registration card and decals, working toward your temple, or comparable measurement that
brakes, safety belts, horn, lights, turn signals, mirrors and shows a field of vision within this range.
speedometer.
A daylight driving only restricted license permits you to drive
For applicants under 19, the road skills test will be given as only during the period of time beginning a half-hour after
part of the driver education course taken at a public, private sunrise and ending a half-hour before sunset.
or commercial driving school. If you are home schooled, refer
to the Home-Schooled In-Car Driver Education Information Bioptic telescopic lenses: If you wear bioptic telescopic
Sheet (HS 3) for more information about taking the road skills lenses, read the DMV publication Driver’s Licensing
test. Information for Bioptic Telescopic Lense Wearers
(MED 44) available at www.dmvNOW.com or contact DMV
For applicants age 19 or older, the road skills test will be given at (804) 497-7100.
by a DMV staff member. Only the applicant and the DMV
staff member are allowed in the vehicle during the road skills
test. The test may be taken only once per business day. 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 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.
Section 2:
Signals, Signs and
Pavement Markings
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.
In this section you’ll learn about: Obey all signs and signals unless directed by a police officer;
Traffic signals always follow the officer’s direction.
Traffic signs
Traffic Signals
Pavement markings
Painted curbs Traffic signals apply to drivers, motorcycle riders, bicyclists,
moped-riders and pedestrians.
Red light: At a red light, come to a complete

stop before you reach the intersection, stop line
or crosswalk. Remain stopped unless turns are
allowed on red.
Right turn on red: At some intersections you may turn right

while the traffic light is red. 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 right if signs are posted at the intersection that read
“No Turn on Red.”
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. 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
Note: If you are traveling in another state, make sure you Green Arrow: You are permitted to drive in a
know its laws for right and left turns at red and red arrow lane marked with a green arrow signal.
lights.
Red arrow: Virginia law prohibits right and left

turns at red arrow lights.
Traffic Signs
The shape of a traffic sign communicates important
Flashing red light: At a flashing red light, come
information about the sign’s message. In poor visibility
to a complete stop and yield to oncoming traffic
conditions, such as heavy fog, you may be able to make out
and pedestrians. You may go when the way is
only the shape of a sign.
clear. At a railroad crossing, you must come to a
complete stop even if you don’t see a train. Octagon (Stop): This eight-sided shape always
means stop. You must come to a complete stop
at the sign, stop line, pedestrian crosswalk or
Yellow light or arrow: A yellow light or
curb. Wait for any vehicle or pedestrian to clear
arrow are cautions warning that the light is
the way. At some intersections you’ll find a sign
about to change. If you have not entered the
beneath the stop sign that reads “All Way” or
intersection, stop. If you are already in the
“4 Way.” At these intersections all vehicles on
intersection, go through it. Do not speed up to
all roads leading into the intersection must stop.
beat the light.
If you get to the intersection at the same time as
other vehicles, the driver on the left must yield
to the driver on the right.
Triangle (Yield): You must slow down as you

Flashing yellow light: A flashing yellow light
come to the intersection. Be prepared to stop.
means slow down and proceed with caution.
Let any vehicles, pedestrians or bicyclists safely
Flashing yellow lights are at locations with
pass before you proceed.
higher-than-normal hazardous conditions.
Green light or arrow: At a green light, you may

go if the way is clear. At a green arrow, you
may go in the direction of the arrow if the way
is clear. If you are turning, you must yield the
right-of-way to vehicles coming from the other Rectangle (Regulatory or Guide): Vertical
direction and pedestrians in the intersection. If signs generally give instructions or tell you the
a traffic light changes from red to green while a law. Horizontal signs may give directions or
pedestrian is in the street, allow the pedestrian information.
to cross the street before turning.
Lane use signals indicate lanes where you can and

cannot drive during different hours of the day. These signals
are used often to reverse a lane’s direction. They provide
additional lanes for heavy morning and evening traffic. Diamond (Warning): These signs warn you
of special conditions or hazards ahead. Slow
down and drive with caution. Be ready to stop.
Red X: Never drive in a lane marked with a red
X signal.
Yellow X: A yellow X signal means that you

should move out of the lane as soon as safely
possible.
Pentagon (School Zone/School Crossing): No Turn on Red: You may not

This five-sided shape marks school zones and turn on the red light. Wait for the
warns you about school crossings. Signs may signal to turn green.
display horizontal lines indicating the point
at which a crosswalk exists. Two signs may be
used together to show the actual location of the
crosswalk. (Signs may also be bright
yellow-green.) Do Not Pass: This sign marks the beginning of
a no passing zone. You may not pass cars ahead
of you in your lane, even if the way is clear.
Regulatory or guide signs inform you Left Turn Yield on Green: This sign is used with
of the law; you must obey their instructions. a traffic signal. It tells you that the traffic turning
Remember that a red circle with a slash means left at a green light does not have the right-of-
NO — the symbol inside the circle tells you way and must yield to traffic coming from the
what is prohibited. other direction. Stop and look for oncoming
traffic, then proceed with caution.
Speed Limit: These signs tell you the maximum
legal speed that you may drive on the road Keep Right: A traffic island, median or barrier is
where the sign is posted when weather ahead. Keep to the side indicated by the arrow.
conditions are good. During rain, snow and ice,
you may receive a ticket for driving too fast for
the conditions even if you are driving at or less
than the posted speed limit. Lane Use Control: These
signs are used where turns are
required or where special turning
Do Not Enter – Wrong Way: These signs mean
movements are permitted for
you cannot drive in that direction. If you drive
specific lanes. Traffic in the lane
past these signs you are going in the wrong
must turn in the direction of the
direction and could get into a head-on crash
arrow.
with vehicles headed your way. Cautiously turn
around.
Roundabout: These signs indicate a circular
intersection with an island in the center is
One Way: Traffic flows only in ahead. Also called rotaries or traffic circles,
the direction of the arrow. these intersections may have one or more
lanes. Entering traffic must yield the right-of-
way to traffic already in the circle.
No Left Turn: Left turns are against the law. In High Occupancy Vehicle: These signs indicate
Virginia, U-turns are considered as two left turns lanes reserved for buses and vehicles with a
and are illegal if this sign is posted. driver and one or more passengers as specified
on the sign.
No Right Turn: Right turns are illegal. Do not

make a right turn when you see this sign.
Disabled Parking: Parking spaces marked with
these signs are reserved for people with disabled
parking permits.
No U-Turn: U-turns are illegal. Do not make a
U-turn when you see this sign.
Warning signs alert you to possible hazards ahead. Slow Deer Crossing: Deer cross the roadway in this
down and watch for other signs or signals that may follow. area. Slow down, be alert and be ready to stop.
Advisory Speed: This sign indicates the

maximum safe speed for a highway exit.
Pedestrian Crossing: Watch for people
entering a crosswalk or crossing your path.
Slow down and be prepared to stop. Signs
may display horizontal lines showing the point
where a crosswalk exists. A second sign with
Signal Ahead: Traffic signals are ahead. Slow an arrow may show the actual location of the
down and be ready to stop. crosswalk. (Signs may also be bright yellow-
green.)
No Passing Zone: This sign marks the

beginning of a no passing zone. You may not
pass cars ahead of you in your lane, even if the
way is clear. Bicycle Crossing/Bike Path: Bicycles regularly
cross or ride beside traffic in this area. Drive
with caution. A second sign with an arrow may
show the actual location of the bike crossing.
Merge: Two lanes of traffic moving in the same (Signs may also be bright yellow-green.)
direction are about to become one. Drivers in
both lanes are responsible for merging safely.
Lane Reduction: The right lane ends soon. School Zone/School Crossing: Slow down.
Drivers in the right lane must merge left when The speed limit is usually 25 MPH. Watch out
space opens up. Drivers in the left lane should for children crossing the street or playing. Be
allow other vehicles to merge smoothly. ready to stop. Obey signals from any crossing
guards. Signs may display horizontal lines
Divided Highway Begins: The highway ahead indicating the point where a crosswalk exists. A
is split into two separate roadways by a median second sign with an arrow may show the actual
or divider and each roadway is one-way. Keep location of the crosswalk. (Signs may also be
right. bright yellow-green.)
Divided Highway Ends: The highway ahead no

longer has a median or divider. Traffic goes in
both directions. Keep right. Open Joints: Slow down. Open joints on
bridges or ramps could cause a motorcyclist to
lose control of the motorcycle.
Slippery When Wet: When pavement is
wet, reduce your speed. Do not brake hard
or change direction suddenly. Increase the
distance between your car and the one ahead Expansion Joints: This sign is used when a joint
of you. across lanes creates a bump or is wide enough
to cause loss of traction in wet weather.
Low Clearance Sign: The overpass ahead has a

low clearance. Do not proceed if your vehicle is
taller than the height shown on the sign. Crossroad: A four-way intersection is ahead.
Be ready to yield the right-of-way.
Hill: A steep grade is ahead. Check your

brakes.
Side Road: A road joins from the right. Be alert Railroad Crossbuck: This sign is a warning of a
for vehicles entering the roadway you are railroad crossing. Look, listen, slow down and
traveling on. be prepared to stop for trains.
Y Intersection: You must bear either right or

left ahead. Railroad Crossbuck and Track Indicator: If
there is more than one track, the sign below the
crossbuck will indicate the number of tracks at
the crossing. Slow down and be prepared to
T Intersection: The roadway you are traveling stop.
on ends ahead. Signal before turning right or
left.
Railroad Crossbuck and Flashing Lights:
Flashing lights may be used with crossbuck
Right Curve – Side Road: The road ahead
signs. Always stop when the light begins to flash
curves right and a side road joins from the left
and be alert for approaching trains. Do not
within the curve. Be alert for vehicles entering
proceed until all trains have passed, the tracks
the roadway you are traveling on.
are clear, and the lights are no longer flashing.
Be especially alert at multi-track crossings
because a second train could be approaching
Sharp Right Turn: Slow down and be prepared
from the opposite direction.
for a sharp right turn in the road ahead.
Crossbuck, Flashing Lights and Gate: Gates
are used with flashing light signals at some
Sharp Right and Left Turns: Slow down and
crossings. Stop when the lights begin to flash and
be prepared for the road ahead to turn sharply
before the gate lowers. Remain stopped until the
right, then left.
gates are raised and the lights stop
flashing. Do not attempt to drive
around the lowered gate.
Right and Left Curves: The road ahead curves
right, then left. Slow down. Pavement markings,
consisting of an X and
RR, may be painted
on the pavement
at the approach to
Right Curve with Safe Speed Indicator: The
some crossings. When
road ahead curves right. Slow down to the safe
approaching railroad
speed limit indicated.
tracks, be alert. Trains
may approach the
crossing at any time and
from either direction.
Winding Road: The road ahead winds with Unless you can clear
a series of turns or curves. On all curves, slow the tracks completely,
down for better control. never start across the tracks. Make sure there is room for your
vehicle on the other side of the tracks before proceeding.
Low Ground Railroad Crossing: A steep slope Note: School buses must always stop at railroad crossings,
where the railroad tracks cross the road may even when the lights are not flashing.
cause the bottom of low vehicles to get caught
If a dangerous condition exists at a
or drag on the tracks.
rail crossing, call the number listed on
Railroad Crossing: Advance warning signs are the emergency sign. This will allow
placed before a railroad crossing. These signs the rail company to stop or reroute
warn you to look, listen, slow down and be approaching rail traffic until the hazard
prepared to stop for trains. is removed. Be sure to give the posted
crossing number so that the hazard can
be identified correctly.
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.
Message Boards: You may see portable or permanent

message boards along roadways. They provide information
If your car stalls on the tracks, don’t hesitate. Get out of the about traffic, road, weather or other hazardous conditions.
car right away and run diagonally away from the tracks in the Always obey any directions posted on these message boards.
direction of the oncoming train. For information about road conditions or road construction,
visit the Virginia Department of Transportation website at
In a work zone, the lives of highway construction www.virginiadot.org.
workers depend on drivers like you obeying the posted
speed limits. If you are convicted of exceeding the speed Slow Moving Vehicle: Vehicles that travel at
limit in a highway work zone, you may be fined up to $500. 25 MPH or less, such as farm equipment and
Remember, the color orange marks a work zone and means horse-drawn vehicles, must display these signs
slow down. when using a public highway. Be prepared to
adjust your speed or position when you see a
Rough Road, Bump, vehicle with one of these signs.
or Uneven Lanes:
These signs are used
when certain road Pavement Markings
conditions, such
as loose gravel or Road markings guide and warn drivers as well as regulate
road construction, affect the roadway surface and create traffic. Markings may be red, blue, yellow or white. They
potentially difficult conditions for motorists, especially may be used alone or in combinations. Each has a different
motorcyclists. meaning.
Road Construction Ahead – Detour: These Red markings or reflectors on the pavement show areas not
signs indicate a change in the traffic pattern to be entered or used.
or route ahead. Slow down. Unusual or
potentially dangerous conditions are ahead. Blue markings show parking spaces for persons with
disabilities.
Yellow center lines mean two-way traffic, flowing in

Flashing Arrow Panels: Large flashing arrow opposite directions.
panels 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. Broken yellow center lines
mean that passing on the left
Flaggers: Flaggers are construction is allowed in either direction
workers who normally wear orange when the way ahead is clear.
or yellow vests, or yellow-green shirts
or jackets. They use STOP/SLOW
paddles and red flags to direct traffic
through the work zone and to let
other workers or construction vehicles
cross the road.
A broken yellow line Solid white lines show turn lanes and discourage lane
alongside a solid yellow line changes near intersections, and at other locations where lane
means that passing is allowed changes might be dangerous. Solid white lines also mark the
from the side of the broken right edge of pavement. Arrows used with white lines indicate
line, but not from the side of which turn may be made from the lane. Stop lines, crosswalks
the solid line. and parking spaces also are marked by white lines.
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.
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
Broken white lines separate your lane is marked with both a curved and straight arrow,
lanes of traffic going in the you may turn or go straight.
same direction. You may
change lanes with caution.
Yield ahead symbol is an
outline of a triangle painted
in the lane before the place
where you must yield.
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.
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.
On three-lane roads with traffic moving in both directions, A painted curb means that you must follow special rules to
road markings show when drivers may use the center lane for park there. Check with the locality for specific meanings.
making left turns or for passing. Generally, the colors on the curb mean:
If the center lane is marked by a single broken yellow line White — Stop only long enough to pick up or drop
on both sides, drivers traveling in either direction may use off passengers.
the center lane for passing.
Yellow — Stop only long enough to load or unload.
If both sides of the center Stay with your car.
lane are marked by a solid
yellow line and a broken
yellow line, drivers traveling Red — Do not stop, stand or park.
in either direction may use
the lane for making left turns. Blue — Parking is reserved for persons
However, they may not travel with disabilities.
further than 150 feet in this
lane.
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.
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. This
diamond-shaped marking
may also indicate that the
lane is reserved for use as a
bike lane or bus lane.
Section 3:
Safe Driving
Every time you get behind the wheel, you accept

responsibility for your actions. You must obey Virginia’s traffic
laws, and ensure the safety of you, your passengers, and other
motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists on the roadways.
Hand position
Hand Position
Speed limits
Stopping Sit straight but relaxed and place your hands on the steering
wheel. If your steering wheel were a clock, your hands
Yielding the right-of-way
should be at the 8 o’clock and 4 o’clock positions. Hold the
Roundabouts wheel with your fingers and thumbs. Avoid gripping it with
Changing lanes your palms.
Over-correcting
Turning
U-turns
Turn signals
Maintaining a space cushion
Searching
Blind spots
Sharing the road
Backing
Parking
Visibility
Lights
Hazardous conditions
Dangerous driving behaviors
Traffic crashes
Traffic stops
Section 3: Safe Driving
Speed Limits Stopping for School Buses

In the following pictures, the red vehicles
A speed limit is the maximum legal speed you can travel on must stop and remain stopped until all
a road under ideal conditions. You may drive slower than the children are clear of the roadway and the
posted speed, but it is illegal to drive any faster. By law, you bus moves again.
must drive slower if conditions such as road construction or
You must stop for stopped
bad weather make the posted speed unsafe. It is illegal to use
school buses with flashing
a radar detector in Virginia.
red lights and an extended
stop sign when you
Maximum speed limit for approach from any direc-
passenger vehicles and motorcycles tion on a public or
(unless posted otherwise) private road. Stop and
remain stopped until all
Type of highway or zone Speed limit
children are clear and the
Interstate highways in certain rural areas 65 MPH bus moves again.
Non-rural interstate highways, public 55 MPH You must also stop if the
roads not part of the interstate system bus is loading or unloading
Rural rustic roads 35 MPH children and the signals are
School, business and residential zones 25 MPH not on.
(You are required to travel 25 MPH in a
school zone only when indicated by a
sign or signal. Otherwise, maintain the
posted speed.)
You do not have to stop if
you are traveling in the
Stopping opposite direction on a
roadway with a median or
You must always stop your vehicle: barrier dividing the road
and the bus is on the
before a crosswalk
opposite side of the median
at all stop signs, red traffic lights and flashing red signals or barrier.
when entering a street or crossing over a sidewalk from
a driveway, alley, building or parking lot
at railroad crossings with flashing signals
when signaled by flaggers directing traffic
for pedestrians attempting to cross a street
at the direction of a police officer. If you don’t obey a
Stopping Distance
law enforcement officer’s signal to stop and the officer Three factors determine the distance that it takes to stop
pursues you and is killed as a direct result of the pursuit, your vehicle: perception time, reaction distance and braking
you will be guilty of a Class 4 felony. distance.
at the scene of a crash in which you are involved
Perception time: The time it takes you to recognize a hazard.
When approaching a stop sign and the car in front of you
Reaction distance: The distance your vehicle travels
proceeds, stop at the sign and proceed when the way is clear.
between the time you recognize a problem and the time you
apply the brakes.
Braking distance: The distance your car travels after you

apply the brakes.
Perception time, reaction distance and braking distance are

affected by weather, visibility, and your mental and physical
condition. Braking distance is also affected by how fast your
vehicle is traveling, the condition of your brakes and tires,
and the pavement condition. For example, wet pavement can
double your braking distance.
Average stopping distance on dry, level pavement. Other drivers in the procession may follow carefully
without stopping and may use hazard lights (flashers) to
indicate they are in the procession.
You must yield to all military convoys. Never cut
through or join a military convoy.
Yielding to Vehicles with Flashing Lights

Drivers must take specific actions when they see vehicles
with flashing or blinking blue, red, yellow or white lights on
roadways.
Source: Code of Virginia Section 46.2-880 Stopped vehicles
When approaching a stopped vehicle with flashing
lights on a four lane highway, you must change to a lane
Antilock Brakes not next to the emergency vehicle, if you can change
If your vehicle has antilock brakes, be sure that you lanes safely. If you are unable to safely change lanes,
understand how they work. Check your vehicle owner’s reduce your speed and proceed with caution. Violations
manual and practice braking before you go out on the can result in court suspension of your driver’s license
road. Remember, never pump antilock brakes. and demerit points on your driving record.
You may not park within 500 feet of where fire trucks or
equipment are stopped answering an alarm.
Approaching vehicles – same direction
Yielding the Right-of-Way Never follow an emergency vehicle closer than 500 feet
when its lights are flashing.
Yield also means to stop if you cannot merge safely into the
flow of traffic. When police, fire and rescue vehicles or ambulances
approach you from behind your vehicle using a siren,
Examples of yielding the right-of-way: flashing lights or both, you must immediately yield the
right-of-way. Safely pull over to the right edge of the
When two vehicles from different directions arrive at an
road and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed.
intersection at different times, the vehicle that arrives
first goes first. Approaching vehicles – opposite direction
When two vehicles from different directions arrive at When emergency vehicles approach you in the oppo-
the same time at an intersection with no signs or signals, site lane on an undivided highway, you must pull over
the driver on the left must allow the driver on the right to the edge of the road and stop until the emergency
to go first. vehicle passes.
If the traffic lights at an intersection are not working, These requirements do not apply in highway work zones.
all vehicles coming to the intersection must stop. The
driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
Roundabouts
Drivers entering an interstate from an entrance ramp
must yield the right-of-way to traffic already on the Roundabouts, rotaries, circular intersections and traffic circles
highway. are all terms for intersections with a circular
Drivers entering any intersection or traffic circle must island in the center. Roundabouts may have
yield to traffic already in it. one or more lanes. Entering traffic must yield
When entering a roadway from a private road or the right-of-way to traffic already in the circle.
driveway, you must stop and yield to all traffic and Each road approaching the roundabout is
pedestrians. marked with a yield sign and may also have
yield line markings on the pavement. However, rotaries and
You must yield for pedestrians who are crossing a other circles may have stop signs. Drivers must pay attention
street within a clearly marked crosswalk or at an and obey the signs.
unmarked intersection. Remember that turns on red are
especially hazardous to pedestrians. Avoid conflict with When approaching a roundabout, slow down. Use your turn
pedestrians and permit them to cross the street safely. signals to indicate where you want to go. If you plan to turn
You must yield to funeral processions. Do not cut right, stay to the right as you enter the roundabout. If you
through, join or interfere with a funeral procession. plan to go straight, you may stay in either lane (if it is a dual
Unless led by a police escort, the lead vehicle in a lane circular intersection). If you plan to turn left, stay to the
funeral procession must obey all traffic signs and signals. left as you enter the roundabout.
Changing Lanes
Before changing lanes, check your side and rearview mirrors
for traffic approaching you from behind. Then, use your turn
signal to let other drivers know you plan to change lanes.
Check for other drivers who also may be moving into the
same lane. Just before you begin moving into the other lane,
quickly glance over your shoulder and check for any vehicles
that may be in your blind spot.
Whether you are changing lanes, passing, entering or exiting a

highway, always use your turn signals and check traffic to the
rear and sides. When driving on a multi-lane highway, stay in
the right lane if you are driving slower than the traffic around
you.
Passing
When passing another vehicle:
check the traffic ahead of you, behind you and in your
blind spot before you attempt to pass. Signal and then
accelerate to pass. Return to the right lane as soon as
you can see the front of the passed vehicle in your
More information about driving safely through a roundabout rearview mirror.
is available at the Virginia Department of Transportation web
it is against the
site at http://www.virginiadot.org/info/faq-roundabouts.asp.
law to exceed the
Tips for driving safely through a roundabout: speed limit as you
pass.
As you approach the roundabout, slow down; look for
the street and direction signs. This will help you know complete the pass
which exit to take. These signs should be posted along before you reach
the roadside before you reach the roundabout. a No Passing zone.
If you’re still in the
When you arrive at the roundabout, yield the right-of- left lane when you
way to pedestrians and bicyclists. You also must yield reach the zone,
to any vehicles already in the roundabout. Sometimes you’re breaking
your entry point will be controlled by a stop or yield the law.
sign, or traffic signal. When the way is clear, you may
enter the roundabout. you may pass
on the right if
While inside the roundabout, stay in your lane until you the vehicle you
are ready to exit. Use your vehicle’s right turn signal to are passing has
let drivers around you know what you want to do. signaled and is
Do not change lanes or take an exit before checking making a left turn. Be cautious because the vehicle you
for vehicles that may be continuing through the are passing may be blocking your view or blocking the
roundabout in the lane next to you or behind you. view of other drivers. You may not pass on the right if
Expect vehicles to be in blind spots you cannot see in you must drive off the pavement or main portion of the
your rearview or side mirrors. Quickly glance over your roadway to get around the other vehicle.
shoulder and check for any vehicles that may be in your when approaching or passing a person riding a bicycle,
blind spot. moped, or power-assisted bicycle or other device,
reduce speed and pass at least two feet to the left.
When being passed, don’t speed up. Maintain a steady

speed or slow down.
Passing is unlawful and unsafe: When two vehicles are

approaching each other and
on hills, curves, at intersections or railroad crossings,
signaling to turn left, both
except on roads with two or more lanes of traffic
vehicles should turn in front
moving in the same direction
of each other so that the
off the pavement or shoulder of the road passenger sides of the
when a school bus is stopped to load or unload vehicles are beside each
passengers on a public road (unless a physical barrier other.
or unpaved median separates traffic going in either
direction) or on a private road
when a solid line marks the left side of your lane
Over-correcting U-Turns
U-turns are not legal everywhere. Before you
Over-correcting occurs when the driver turns the steering
make a U-turn, check for No U-Turn or No Left
wheel more sharply than expected, causing the rear wheels of
Turn signs. In business districts, cities and towns,
the vehicle to slide toward the outside of the turn. This may
U-turns are allowed only at intersections. Never
result in the loss of vehicle control.
make a U-turn on a highway.
Most over-correction crashes are single vehicle crashes and
When making a U-turn, turn on your left-turn signal, stop,
are often preventable. A driver should remain alert at all
and yield for approaching traffic. When the way is clear,
times. Reduce speed and use extra caution while driving on
proceed into the outside or right hand lane traveling in the
curved roads. If you veer off the road, curved or straight, do
opposite direction.
not panic. Gradually reduce your speed, look in the direction
you want to go, slowly steer back onto the roadway.
Turn Signals
Turning When you plan to change lanes, turn, or enter or exit a
highway, first give the proper turn signal. Using your turn
To make a right turn you should be in the lane closest to
signal, which is required by law, communicates your intended
the curb. Signal your intent to turn by using the proper
movement to drivers around you. Develop a good habit and
turn signal. You should signal at least three or four seconds,
use turn signals or hand signals even if no other traffic is on
100 feet, ahead of the turn. Look to your left to check the
the road.
intersection for pedestrians and traffic coming from the other
direction. Then brake smoothly before and during the turn. If
When you plan to turn, signal three or four seconds, 100 feet,
there is a traffic light or a stop sign at the intersection, come to
ahead of your turn. Be aware that drivers planning to turn
a complete stop before you make the turn. Turn into the lane
into your lane may not know exactly where you will turn;
closest to the curb, and then change lanes if needed.
drivers may pull out in front of you. Be alert.
To make a left turn you should be in the furthest left lane
After you complete the turn or lane change, be sure the turn
possible. Signal your intent to turn by using the proper turn
signal stops flashing.
signal. You should signal at least three to four seconds, 100
feet, ahead of the turn. Look in all directions, checking
the intersection for pedestrians and traffic coming from the Hand Signals
opposite direction. Keep your front wheels pointed straight
ahead until you are actually going to make the left turn. This
prevents you from being pushed into oncoming traffic if
another vehicle crashes into you from behind. When the way
is clear, make the left turn, yield to any vehicles (including
bicycles and pedestrians) approaching from the opposite Left Turn Right Turn Slow or Stop
direction. Left hand and Left hand and Left hand and
arm pointing arm pointing arm pointing
straight out upward downward
Maintaining a Space Cushion Drivers need to change following distance when speed
or road conditions change. Hand response time is close to
Space around your vehicle gives you distance to react in a half second. Foot response time is less, normally three-
emergencies and avoid a crash. Create a space cushion quarters of a second. This does not take into account any
around your vehicle by staying in the middle of your lane. delay in perception time as a result of the driver being tired,
Make sure there is enough room ahead of your vehicle and on medication, distracted, etc. Road conditions, speed, driver
behind it for other vehicles to pass or stop safely. alertness, and even following vehicles of different weights all
change the ability to stop.
Use the two-, three- and four-second rule to determine if
you are following far enough behind the vehicle ahead of Increase your following distance when driving:
you. behind a large vehicle that blocks your vision
in bad weather or heavy traffic
when exiting an expressway
Following Distance
behind a motorcycle
At these posted speeds and on dry surfaces,
this distance, in seconds, allows the driver to steer and when being tailgated
brake out of a problem areas.
Tailgating is when the driver behind you is following too
2 seconds Under 35 MPH closely. If you find yourself in this situation, do not brake
3 seconds 36-45 MPH suddenly. If possible, move over to another lane, or gently
tap your brakes to flash your brake lights and slow down. This
4 seconds 46-70 MPH
should encourage the tailgater to pass you or slow down.
Help the driver behind you by maintaining a safe following

Here’s how the following distance rule works.
distance and a steady speed. Tap your brakes to warn the
Glance at the vehicle driver behind you when you plan to slow down or stop.
ahead as it passes a
fixed object, such as an
overpass, sign, fence, Searching
corner or other fixed
mark. Searching means looking at the entire scene for anything that
Begin counting the might come into your path. As you search the road, avoid
seconds it takes you to staring at one thing. Keep your eyes moving and learn to read
reach the same place the road and your surroundings.
in the road.
Looking ahead will help you identify risks early and provide
If you reach the mark you with more time to react. Expert drivers try to focus
before you have their eyes 20 to 30 seconds ahead. In the city, that equals
counted off two, approximately one block. Avoid staring at the middle of the
three, or four seconds, road. Scan from side to side, checking for traffic signs and
depending on speed, signals, cars or people that might be in the road by the time
you’re following too you reach them.
closely. Slow down and
increase your following Search for clues in the road. Look for exhaust smoke, brake
distance. or back-up lights and turned wheels on vehicles. Clues like
For bad weather these warn that the vehicles may pull into your path. Watch
conditions, heavy for pedestrians, bicyclists and other slow moving vehicles that
traffic, poor pavement may be in the road ahead.
or if your vehicle is
in poor condition, When driving in rural areas, watch for hidden intersections
add extra seconds to and driveways, curves, hills and different road conditions.
increase your following Watch for other vehicles, especially trucks, oversized and
distance. slow-moving farm vehicles, and bicycles.
Check from left to right and then left again before Bicycles: Bicycles are considered vehicles and
entering an intersection. Whenever you reach a place in have the same right-of-way as motor vehicles.
the road where other cars, people or animals may cross your Bicyclists are also expected to obey the same
path, look both ways to be sure it is clear. These include traffic rules and regulations as vehicle drivers;
intersections, crosswalks, shopping centers, construction areas however, many are children who may not
and playgrounds. At any intersection, look to the left first, know or obey the rules. Slow down when
since cars coming from the left will be closer to you. Then you approach bicyclists. Give them plenty of
look to the right and take one more quick look to the left room when passing and be prepared to stop
before you drive through. suddenly. Look for bicycles on all public roads.
Look behind. Use your rearview mirror to check the traffic It is against the law to operate a bicycle or any electric power
behind you frequently, about every 10 seconds. This will alert device such as assistive mobility devices, toy vehicles, and
you if someone is moving up too quickly or tailgating you. bicycles on any interstate highway.
Check the traffic behind you when changing lanes, backing
up, slowing down quickly or driving down a long, steep hill. Mopeds: Under Virginia law, a moped is a bicycle-like device
with pedals and a motor. The motor cannot be rated at more
than two horsepower or enable the moped to travel more
Blind Spots than 30 MPH. It is against the law to operate a moped faster
than 35 MPH or on an interstate highway. Any person who
Blind spots are danger areas that cannot be seen in the operates a moped faster than 35 MPH is considered to be
mirrors on either or both sides of the vehicle. operating a motorcycle which must meet Virginia registration
requirements. In addition, the operator would be required to
The best way to see a car in your blind spot is by quickly hold a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle classification or
turning your head and glancing over your shoulder to ensure a driver’s license restricted to operating motorcycles only.
the way is clear before changing lanes or passing another
vehicle. Moped riders must be at least age 16 and obey all rules of
the road. They must carry some form of identification that
Avoid driving in someone else’s blind spot. This can be just as includes name, address and date of birth. As a driver, treat
dangerous as not checking your own blind spot. Speed up or moped riders with the same care given to any other vehicle
drop back; but, don’t stay in the other driver’s blind spot. driver.
Although you do not need a driver’s license to operate a

Sharing the Road moped, you may not operate a moped if you have been
declared a habitual offender and your license is suspended or
Drivers share the road with many other users: pedestrians, revoked for driving while intoxicated.
bicyclists, moped and motorcycle riders, trucks and buses,
recreational vehicles and other vehicles of all shapes and Motorcycles: Approximately half of all fatal motorcycle
sizes. It is your responsibility to adjust your driving to avoid crashes involve automobiles. Many crashes are caused by the
other drivers’ mistakes and assure everyone’s safety. motorist’s failure to see a motorcycle in traffic.
Pedestrians: Generally, there are three types of pedestrians Look for motorcyclists. In more than half of all crashes
most often involved in accidents: children, the elderly and involving motorcycles and automobiles, the other driver
adults under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. didn’t see the motorcycle until it was too late. Drivers
are conditioned to look for four-wheeled vehicles;
Be careful around schools, playgrounds and in but they don’t expect to see two-wheeled vehicles. A
residential areas where small children may be playing motorcycle’s small size also makes it difficult to see.
or crossing the street.
Check your blind spots. A motorcycle’s small size allows
Look out for the elderly, who may have poor vision and it to slip into your blind spot easily. Always check for
hearing. Remember that the elderly and people with motorcycles before you pull out, change lanes, turn,
disabilities will move slowly. back up or proceed through an intersection.
Be especially aware of pedestrians when making a Never tailgate a motorcycle (or any other vehicle).
right or left turn on red. They have the right-of-way. Allow yourself plenty of braking distance by adding an
Allow pedestrians to completely cross the street before extra second to the following distance rule. In inclement
beginning your turn. weather, double this distance.
Be alert for pedestrians at all times. Slow down and be Anticipate the motorcyclist’s movements. Although a
prepared to stop. motorcycle is not as wide as the lane, the rider will use
the entire lane as traffic situations and road conditions
change. A slight change or debris on the road surface
can be a major obstacle for a motorcyclist. Expect the see what’s

motorcycle to make sudden moves within the lane. happening in
Never drive in the motorcyclist’s lane, if possible. traffic ahead of
Yield to motorcycles. The small size of a motorcycle his vehicle. If
can cause you to misjudge the motorcycle’s speed and the truck, bus
distance. Before pulling out into traffic, check twice for or RV brakes or
motorcycles and use extra caution before you pull out stops suddenly,
in front of one. you have no
place to go and
Light Rail: The Tide in Norfolk is a light rail vehicle that shares could crash into
the road with automobile traffic as well as pedestrians and the vehicle’s
bicyclists. When driving near light rail vehicles: rear-end. Always
maintain a
Pay attention and obey all traffic signals. safe following
Never drive around, or race a light rail vehicle through distance.
an intersection. Front No-Zone:
Never stop or park your car on light rail tracks. You could get
Be careful turning across train tracks. rear-ended by a
truck, bus or RV
Expect trains on any track at any time.
if you cut in front too soon after passing the vehicle or
Light rail vehicles are quiet. Warning bells, cross bars and if you cut in front and then suddenly slow down. The
flashing lights are not typically provided at highway crossings. truck, bus and RV drivers would be forced to slam on
Look both ways before crossing the tracks. their brakes. These vehicles need nearly twice the time
and room to stop as cars. A truck and its trailer may be
Learn more about driver safety near The Tide light rail at as long as 65 feet and it may take you more than half a
http://www.ridethetide.com/light_rail_safety/lightrail_safety. mile of clear road to pass. When passing, look for the
shtml. entire front of the truck in your rearview mirror before
pulling in front. And then, maintain your speed.
Low Speed Vehicles: These electrically powered four-wheel Wide Turns: Trucks, buses and RVs sometimes need
vehicles have a maximum speed ranging from 21 to 25 MPH. to swing wide to the left or right to safely make a turn.
Low speed vehicles may be operated on public roads with They can’t see the cars directly behind or beside them.
speed limits of 35 MPH or less by licensed drivers or learner’s In fact, their blind spots may stretch up to 20 feet in
permit holders accompanied by a licensed driver. Low speed front of the cab and approximately 200 feet behind the
vehicles must comply with all federal safety standards and vehicle. Never try to squeeze between a truck, bus or
must meet Virginia’s requirements for passenger vehicle RV and the curb or another vehicle.
registration and insurance coverage. Golf carts are not
classified as low speed vehicles. Light to Medium Trailers: These trailers are attached to mid-
sized cars and trucks with safety chains and a trailer hitch.
Trucks, Tractor-Trailers, Buses and RVs: Trucks, tractor- Large side mirrors are generally needed to increase visibility.
trailers, buses and recreational vehicles (RVs) – including Towing a trailer places additional stress on the vehicle; it takes
motor homes, campers and travel trailers – are longer, higher the vehicle twice as long to pass, stop, accelerate and turn.
and wider than other vehicles. They accelerate slowly and Remember the No-Zones described under Trucks, Tractor-
require greater stopping and turning distances. Plus, there are Trailers and RVs.
danger areas around these vehicles where crashes are more
likely to occur. These areas are called No-Zones. No-Zones Before driving a vehicle with a light to medium trailer
on the side, front and rear also include blind spots where your attached, perform a safety inspection before each trip.
car disappears from the driver’s view. Learning the No-Zones Ensure:
can save your life. the pin securing the ball mount to the receiver is intact
Side No-Zones: Trucks, tractor-trailers, buses and RVs the hitch coupler is secured
have big No-Zones on both sides that are dangerous
because these vehicles must make wide turns. These safety chains are properly attached
No-Zones or blind spots are much larger than your car’s the electrical plug is properly installed
blind spots. If you can’t see the driver’s face in his side brake lights, turn signals, and license plate lights are
view mirror, then he can’t see you. functioning properly.
Rear No-Zone: Trucks, tractor-trailers, buses and RVs
have huge No-Zones directly behind them. The driver Before pulling a trailer on public roads, find a location such as
can’t see your car behind his vehicle and you can’t a vacant parking lot to practice and get the feel for how your
vehicle and trailer will handle.
When driving a vehicle with a light to medium trailer You may not park:
attached: beside another parked vehicle (double parking)
always allow for the added length of the trailer when on crosswalks or sidewalks
you change lanes
in front of driveways
if your trailer starts to sway, steer toward your target
within areas where parking is prohibited by curbs
when backing up, place your hand on the bottom of the painted yellow or No Parking signs
steering wheel. If you cannot see where you are backing
up, have someone outside to help guide you. To back in a parking space reserved for disabled persons
the trailer to the left, use your left hand to move the on the hard surface of a road when no curb is present
wheel left. To back the trailer to the right, use your right within 15 feet of a fire hydrant
hand to move the wheel to the right.
within 20 feet of an intersection
within 15 feet of the entrance to a fire, ambulance or
Backing rescue squad station
within 500 feet of where fire trucks or equipment are
The most common mistake that drivers make when backing stopped answering an alarm
up is failing to look both ways behind them. Mirrors do not
give you a full view. To see as much as possible, turn your within 50 feet of a railroad crossing
body and head to the right and look out through the rear in such a way that you block or create a hazard for
window. Back up slowly and check for pedestrians and other vehicles in a designated traffic lane
approaching traffic by glancing quickly to either side.
Visibility
Parking
Most of what you do while driving depends on what you
When parking on a public road, move as far from traffic as see. To be a good driver, you need to know what to look for,
possible. If you park on a shoulder, pull over as far on the where to look, and how to adjust to possible problems. The
shoulder as possible. If you park next to a curb, pull close to single biggest contributor to crashes is failing to identify a risk.
it. You may not park more than one foot from the curb. On a You must look down the road, to the sides, and behind your
two-way street, park on the right side of the road. On a one- vehicle. You must also be alert for unexpected events. You
way road, park on either side. must use your headlights at night and at other times when it’s
hard to see. You must be alert and pay attention to what is
going on around you.
Parking on a hill
With a curb: Turn the Lights
front wheels of your
vehicle to prevent it Virginia law requires motorists to use headlights during
from rolling into the inclement weather such as rain, fog, snow or sleet when
street. visibility is reduced to 500 feet. You must use your headlights
whenever you use your windshield wipers as a result of bad
Parking Parking uphill weather.
downhill — — with curb
with curb Turn Turn front
front wheels wheels left
Hazardous Conditions
right
Driving becomes hazardous when visibility is reduced or
when the road surface is covered with rain, snow or ice.
Reducing your speed should be your first response to
Without a curb: Turn decreased visibility and dangerous road conditions. Increase
the front wheels so your space cushion by doubling your normal following
that if the vehicle distance from three seconds to six seconds (refer to the
rolls, the rear of the Maintaining a Space Cushion section for more information).
vehicle will roll away Turn on your headlights.
from traffic.
Parking Parking uphill Night Driving

downhill — no — no curb
curb Turn front Turn front At sunset, as soon as light begins to fade, turn on your
wheels right wheels right headlights to make your vehicle more visible to others. You
must use headlights from sunset to sunrise.
Use low-beams when driving in cities and towns, except Watch for ice on bridges and in shady areas. Bridges freeze
on streets where there is no lighting. Switch to low-beams before other road surfaces.
whenever you meet oncoming traffic to avoid blinding the
other driver. When following, use low-beams whenever you
are within 200 feet of the vehicle ahead. Dangerous Driving Behaviors
Use high-beam headlights on highways, unless another
vehicle is within 500 feet coming toward you. If the high- Aggressive Driving
beams of an oncoming car are on, avoid looking directly at This dangerous driving behavior is defined by Virginia law
the bright lights. Glance toward the side of the road, then as the intent to harass, intimidate, injure or obstruct another
look quickly ahead to determine the other vehicle’s position. person while committing one or more traffic offenses such
Keep doing this until you have passed the other vehicle. Even as failing to stop or yield the right-of-way, avoiding a traffic
if the other driver does not dim his headlights, do not turn on control device or failing to give way to an overtaking vehicle.
your high-beam headlights.
When aggressive drivers are behind the wheel, these
high-risk drivers take out their anger on other motorists.
Fog Their frustration levels run high while their concerns for fellow
Fog reflects light and can reflect your own headlights back motorists runs low. They break the law by running stop signs
into your eyes. Use low-beam headlights in heavy fog and and red lights, speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of
look for road edge markings to guide you. Even light fog traffic, passing on the right (including on the shoulder and
reduces visibility and your ability to judge distances, so slow unpaved portions of the road), making improper and unsafe
down. lane changes, as well as making hand and facial gestures,
screaming, honking and flashing their lights.
Rain Protect yourself. If you see an aggressive driver, stay out of

Driving in heavy rain can be as hazardous as driving in fog, the way. Don’t challenge the aggressive driver by speeding up
especially if the wind is blowing. Other vehicles to the rear or trying to out-maneuver him. Avoid eye contact and ignore
and in blind spot areas are especially difficult to see when it’s his gestures and shouting.
raining.
Remember, if you are convicted of aggressive driving, your
Use your low-beam headlights to see and be seen. In light license could be suspended for ten days or for as long as six
rain or drizzle, turn on your windshield wipers before months.
visibility is blocked; using wipers for sprinkles may smear the
windshield and make it hard to see.
Distracted Driving
When rain begins, during the first half-hour, roads are more Driving requires your full attention. There are many
likely to be slippery due to oil on the road surface mixing with distractions that may prevent drivers from focusing on driving:
water. changing the radio or CD, talking to passengers, observing
outside surroundings, eating, using a cell phone and more.
When on the road, drivers should not use cell phones,
Snow computers or other distracting devices except to report a
Remove snow and ice from your entire car, including the roof, crash or emergency. When engaging in distracting behavior,
hood and rear of the vehicle, before you start driving. Snow pull over and stop the vehicle in a safe location.
and ice left on the car can fly off when the vehicle is moving
and create a hazard for other motorists. Be sure to clear all of Virginia law prohibits drivers under age 18 from using cell
your windows, mirrors and front and rear lights of snow or ice phones or any other wireless communication device while
so you can see and communicate with other drivers. driving except in a driver emergency and the vehicle is
lawfully parked or stopped. Text messaging or reading of
Equip your car with all-weather snow tires or chains to help text messages while driving is illegal for all drivers.
prevent skidding and reduce stopping distance.
Annually, driver distraction accounts for roughly 20 percent
Driving on packed snow is similar to driving on ice. When you of all traffic crashes in Virginia. Why is distracted driving so
brake, apply the brakes gently. Slow down before stopping or deadly? Because while the driver is distracted, the vehicle
turning. may move into a high risk situation. The driver then loses
precious seconds before recognizing the situation and must
When driving on slippery surfaces and you need to stop, make an emergency maneuver. Young distracted drivers are
apply brakes gently. You have the most traction and control even more susceptible. Failure to maintain proper control,
when the front tires are rolling. Therefore, your vehicle will following too closely, and not yielding the right-of-way are
respond more effectively to steering while moving more common actions of young distracted drivers. Inexperience
slowly than hard braking. in handling or controlling a vehicle during an emergency
situation combined with distracted driving (cell phone use, Drinking and Driving
other passengers, eyes not on the road, etc.) puts them at
Legally, drivers age 21 or older are considered to be driving
greater risk of a crash.
under the influence (DUI) if your blood alcohol content
(BAC) is .08 percent or higher. If your driving is impaired, you
Don’t let this happen to you. Take the following precautions.
can be convicted of driving under the influence with a BAC
Concentrate. Keep your eyes on the road and your lower than .08 percent. If under age 21, you can be convicted
hands on the wheel at all times. Also, keep your body of DUI if your BAC is .02 or higher. If your driving is impaired
alert; sit straight, but relaxed. Look in the direction that because you are under the influence of any drug, you may
you want to go. face the same penalties as driving under the influence of
Set or adjust the controls on the vehicle and other alcohol.
devices as soon as you get in the car and before you
begin driving. Researchers estimate that between the hours of 10 PM and
2 AM three out of every ten drivers are drunk. More than
Do not use a cell phone.
one-third of these drivers have been drinking at someone
Anticipate the traffic and environment around you by else’s home. Nearly 50 percent of the drivers arrested for
searching ahead and checking your rearview mirrors DUI are social to moderate drinkers. Don’t think that it won’t
often. happen to you. In your lifetime, there’s a 50-50 chance that
Maintain a space cushion around your vehicle. Make you’ll be involved in an alcohol-related crash.
sure there is enough room ahead of your vehicle and
behind it. 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.
Drowsy Driving
Constant yawning, head nodding, heavy eyelids, blurred Because alcohol affects your judgment and driving ability,
vision and weaving while driving are some of the warning your chances of being in a crash are seven times greater if you
signs that you may be on the verge of falling asleep at the drive after drinking than if you drive sober.
wheel. Driving while you are sleepy reduces your ability to
drive effectively. Your reaction time is slower, awareness is Twelve ounces of beer is the same as a shot of liquor or a
decreased, and judgement is impaired. Often the actions five-ounce glass of wine.
of tired drivers are confused with drivers who had been
Only time can decrease intoxication. Coffee, cold showers or
drinking. The consequences can be just as fatal.
exercise will not sober you up.
To avoid falling asleep at the wheel:
Alcohol-related crashes are not accidents. They can be
Get plenty of quality sleep before a trip. prevented! The only way to avoid the risks of drinking and
Avoid alcoholic beverages and heavy foods. driving is to decide before you start drinking that you are not
Beware of medications that can impair your driving going to drive. Remember, alcohol affects judgment. Making
ability. the decision not to drive is a lot more difficult after one or
two drinks.
Limit long distance driving. Stop at least every two
hours for rest. Drive to social events in groups of two or more and have
Stop at a safe place and take a nap. Wait at least 10 the driver agree not to drink.
minutes after waking up to see how alert you are. If you
don’t feel any more alert, don’t drive. Find a place to Combining alcohol with other drugs usually multiplies the
sleep for an hour or for the night. effects of both and can have a disastrous effect on your
ability to drive. One drink taken when you are on another
If possible, drive with a companion and switch drivers
drug – even an aspirin, or allergy or cold medicine – could
when necessary. Talk with passengers but not to the
have the same effect on your driving ability as drinking several
point of distraction.
alcoholic beverages.
Keep the temperature cool in your vehicle. Keep your
eyes moving and check your mirrors often. Almost any drug can reduce your ability to drive safely. It’s not
Avoid caffeine drinks. They provide a short-term boost; just illegal drugs that cause problems. Many over-the-counter
however, if you are seriously sleep deprived, no amount medications and prescription drugs for headaches, hay fever,
of caffeine will help. It’s best to stay off the road. colds, allergies or nervous conditions can cause drowsiness
and dizziness. This includes syrups, drops, sprays, pills and
If possible, avoid driving when drowsiness is most likely,
tablets. They often affect driver alertness and slow reaction
from10 PM to 6 AM.
time.
Read the label before taking any drug or medicine. Look for Traffic Stops
warnings about side effects. If you’re uncertain about the
effects of a drug, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice. If you are stopped by a police officer:
Remember that, while the effects may vary among users, no
Remain calm.
drug is harmless.
Pull off to the right side of the roadway. Position your
vehicle as far away from traffic as possible.
Traffic Crashes Turn on your flashers.
Turn off your engine, radio and any other device that
If you are involved in a traffic crash, you must:
could block communication with the officer.
stop at the scene of the crash or as close to the scene
Roll down your window so that you can communicate
as possible without blocking traffic. You may move the
with the officer.
vehicles before the police arrive if the vehicles create a
traffic hazard. Keep your safety belt fastened and ask your passengers
to keep their belts fastened.
give any help you can if someone is injured. Do not
attempt to move an injured person from a wrecked Stay in your vehicle. Do not get out unless the officer
vehicle unless you have the necessary medical training asks you to.
or there is an immediate danger such as fire. Keep your hands in plain view, preferrably on the
report the crash to the police as quickly as possible. steering wheel. Ask your passengers to keep their hands
Motor vehicle crashes involving property damage, in plain view also.
personal injury or death must be reported to the police. Do not make any movement that will make the officer
exchange information with other people involved think you are hiding or reaching for something.
in the crash as soon as possible. Be sure to get the Carry proper identification: a valid driver’s license,
following information: proof of vehicle registration and proof of insurance. If
name, address and driver’s license number of the officer asks for these documents, tell him where
other drivers they are and reach for them slowly, keeping one hand
on the steering wheel.
license plate numbers of other vehicles
If the officer is driving an unmarked car or is not in
name and address of anyone who was injured
uniform, ask to see his or her identification.
name and address of each witness
Answer the officer’s questions fully and clearly. If you
name, address and insurance policy number of don’t understand something, politely ask the officer
other vehicle owners questions to clarify.
notify your insurance company immediately. If the officer issues you a citation, do not argue with the
officer about the citation. You will have your chance to
Law enforcement officers are required to forward a written make your case when you go to court.
crash report to DMV when a traffic crash results in injury or
the death of any person or total property damage is in excess You will be asked to sign the citation. This is not an
of $1,500. All crash information will be recorded on the DMV admission of guilt. Refusal to sign the citation may result
records of each driver involved in the crash. in your arrest. Or, you may be required to go to the
police station.
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.
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
In this section you’ll learn about: Under Virginia law, the driver and all front seat passengers
Seat belts must wear safety belts. A driver transporting anyone
younger than age 18 must ensure that the passenger is
Air bags
properly secured in a safety belt, booster seat or child safety
Child safety seats 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 without any slack. 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.
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.
Section 4: Seat Belts, Air Bags and Child Safety Seats
If your vehicle is equipped with air bags: When traveling with children:
Always buckle up and have all passengers in the vehicle Children from birth to age 12 months ride facing the
buckle up. rear.
Move your seat back so that you are at least ten inches Children ages one through seven ride facing forward in
from the steering wheel. a child safety seat or booster seat.
If your steering wheel is adjustable, tilt it downward. The safest place to install a child safety seat is in the
This points the air bag toward your chest instead of your center of the back seat. Never place a rear-facing infant
head and neck. seat in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger-side
Children ages 12 and under are safer buckled up in the air bag turned on.
back seat. Numerous child safety seat checks are held in localities
across Virginia. Attend one of these checks to make sure
For more information about air bags, including applying for that your child’s safety seat is installed correctly.
an on/off switch, contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Never hold a child in your lap. In a crash, the child may
Administration (NHTSA) at www.nhtsa.dot.gov or toll-free be crushed between your body and the dashboard.
hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
Make sure that all car doors are securely closed and
locked before driving. If your car is equipped with
Child Safety Seats a child safety lock, turn it on. Don’t allow children
to play with door handles or locks. If you must open
Securing a child in a correctly installed child safety seat can a door, pull the vehicle off the road and come to a
significantly reduce the possibility of death or injury. complete stop.
Never allow children to ride in the luggage area of
All children under age eight must be properly secured in hatchbacks, station wagons or vans.
a child safety seat or booster seat when riding in vehicles
manufactured after January 1, 1968. If the vehicle does not Never leave a hatchback open when a child is riding in
have a back seat, a rear facing child seat may be placed in the the back seat.
front passenger seat only if the vehicle is not equipped with It is illegal to transport children under age 16 in the bed
a passenger side airbag or the passenger air bag is turned off. of a pickup truck, even if equipped with a camper shell.
A waiver of this law may be granted by a licensed physician if
the use of 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 $50.00. A second or
subsequent offense could mean a $500 penalty.
Section 5:
Penalties
If you break certain laws or

repeatedly violate the laws of Virginia, your driving privilege
may be suspended or revoked by the court and/or DMV.
If your license is suspended, your privilege to drive has

been withdrawn temporarily. You may pay the required
fees and reinstate your license at the end of the suspension
In this section you’ll learn about: period. Also, you will be required to show proof of legal
License suspension presence, which means you are either a U.S. citizen or
License revocation legally authorized by the federal government to be in the
U.S. During the suspension period, if your license has been
Conviction-related suspensions and expired for one year or more, you must show proof of legal
revocations presence and pass the two-part knowledge, road skills and
Other DMV requirements, suspensions vision exams to have your driving privilege reinstated.
and revocations
Driver Improvement Program Revocation means that your privilege to drive has been
terminated. Your driving privilege may be restored if you
Medical review program re-apply for a driver’s license and show proof of legal
Insurance monitoring program presence after the revocation period has passed. You must
Suspension for failing to satisfy child successfully complete the vision screening, two-part
support-related requirements knowledge exam and road skills tests and pay the required
fees when you re-apply.
Alcohol and the law
Administrative License Suspension
Conviction-Related Suspensions and
Open alcohol containers in vehicles
Revocations
Transporting children while under the
influence of alcohol/drugs The court or DMV will suspend or revoke your privilege to
Vehicle impoundment drive if you are convicted of any of the following offenses:
Restitution operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs (DUI)
Alcohol related violations and
penalties involving persons under injuring another person as a result of operating a motor
age 21 vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
operating a motor vehicle while suspended or revoked
for a DUI
Section 5: Penalties
operating a motor vehicle that is not equipped with the Moving Violations and Points Assessment (DMV 115)
ignition interlock device when it is required by the court publication available at www.dmvNOW.com or DMV
or DMV customer service centers.
making a false statement to DMV
Under Age 18: If you are convicted of a demerit point
failing to stop and identify yourself at the scene of a traffic violation (or safety belt/child restraint violation)
crash if someone has been injured or killed committed when you were under age 18, DMV will require
voluntary or involuntary manslaughter resulting from that you complete a driver improvement clinic. If you do
driving a motor vehicle not complete the clinic within 90 days, DMV will suspend
involuntary manslaughter resulting from operating a your driving privilege until you complete the clinic and pay a
motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol reinstatement fee.
committing a drug offense, regardless of whether or not After your second conviction for a demerit point traffic
a motor vehicle is involved violation (or safety belt/child restraint violation) committed
committing a felony involving the use of a motor vehicle when you were under age 18, DMV will suspend your driving
taking a driver’s license exam for another person, or privilege for 90 days. Your third conviction will result in a
appearing for another person to renew a license revocation of your driving privilege for one year or until you
reach age 18, whichever is longer.
eluding police
Age 18 or 19: DMV will require you to complete a driver
The court may suspend or revoke your driving privilege if you improvement clinic if you are convicted of a demerit point or
are convicted of the following offenses: safety belt/child restraint violation committed while you were
reckless or aggressive driving age 18 or 19.
operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s
license Age 18 or Older: DMV will require you to complete a driver
improvement clinic if you accumulate 12 demerit points
driving while your license is revoked or suspended for a within 12 months or 18 points within 24 months. If you do
non-DUI related conviction not complete the clinic within 90 days, DMV will suspend
refusing to take a blood/breath test when charged with your driving privilege.
driving while under the influence of alcohol/drugs
failing to pay for gas If you receive 18 demerit points within 12 months or 24
points within 24 months, DMV will suspend your driving
If you are convicted of any traffic or criminal convictions and privilege for 90 days and require that you complete a driver
you fail to pay your court fines and costs within 15 days, the improvement clinic.
court will suspend your driving privilege. The court may
offer you the option to enter into an installment payment For more detailed information on the Driver Improvement
agreement if you are unable to pay the total amount. Program for juveniles and adults and the actions taken by
DMV, refer to www.dmvNOW.com or A Different Kind of
Refer to the DMV website under Reinstating Driving Privileges Crash Course (DMV 114) brochure.
and Restricted Driving Privileges for information on other
reasons for suspensions/revocations, requirements to reinstate
Medical Review Program
your driving privilege, and eligibility for restricted driving
privileges. DMV is responsible for making sure that drivers are able to
safely operate motor vehicles. When DMV receives a report
that a driver may have a physical or mental condition that
Other DMV Requirements, affects his ability to drive safely, a medical review of the driver
may be conducted. DMV is concerned about any condition
Suspensions and Revocations that impairs the driver’s:
level of consciousness
Driver Improvement Program perception (vision)
If you are a Virginia resident, DMV is responsible for judgment
maintaining a driving record of all convictions received from
the court. When convictions are added to your record, DMV motor skills
assigns demerit points to traffic offenses and moving
Depending upon the situation, DMV may require you
violations. DMV also monitors your driving record to see
to submit a medical or vision report completed by your
how many demerit points you receive within a 12-month and
physician and/or to pass the two-part knowledge exam and/or
24-month period. Convictions may be assigned three, four or
road skills test.
six demerit points. For more information, refer to the
Once the medical review is completed, DMV will decide Alcohol and the Law
whether to:
suspend your driving privilege If you are arrested for drinking and driving, the penalties are
severe. If the police have probable cause to stop you and
restrict your driving privilege
suspect that you have been drinking or using drugs, they will
require you to submit periodic medical and/or vision ask you to take a breath or blood test. Under implied consent
reports, or laws, if you operate a motor vehicle on Virginia’s public roads,
end the medical review with no other requirements you agree to take a test upon request. If you are involved
in a motor vehicle crash and a law enforcement officer has
If DMV suspends your driving privilege as a result of medical probable cause, you can be arrested for DUI within three
review action, you will not be required to present legal hours of the crash without a warrant and at any location.
presence proof documents to reinstate your driving privilege
unless required to do so for another suspension/revocation or
your license expires. Administrative License Suspension
If your BAC is .08 percent or higher while you are driving
Refer to the DMV publication, Medical Fitness for Safe and law enforcement charges you with driving while under
Driving (MED 80), for more detailed information on the the influence of alcohol/drugs or refusing a breath test, your
Medical Review Program. driving privilege will be automatically suspended:
for seven days, for a first offense
Insurance Monitoring Program for 60 days or until you go to trial, whichever comes
DMV is responsible for making sure that all owners of vehicles first, for a second offense
with a valid registration comply with the Virginia laws on until the trial, for a third DUI offense
insurance requirements. When registering a motor vehicle,
you must sign a statement on the registration application that If you are convicted of DUI, the court and DMV will impose
you have liability insurance coverage for your motor vehicle, a suspension/revocation and other penalties in addition to
or pay the $500 uninsured motor vehicle fee. DMV will the administrative license suspension. If you receive multiple
suspend your driving privilege if: DUI convictions, the suspension/revocation periods will run
consecutively.
you do not submit the requested insurance policy
information to verify that you have liability insurance
coverage Open Alcohol Containers in Vehicles
there is a break in your insurance policy coverage and You may be charged with drinking while operating a motor
you do not return your license plates to DMV vehicle if you:
Refer to www.dmvNOW.com for more detailed information are stopped by law enforcement and you have an open
on Insurance Monitoring activities by DMV. container of alcohol in the passenger area and the
contents have been partially removed, and
show signs that you have been drinking
Suspensions for Failing to Satisfy Child
The passenger area means the area that seats the driver and
Support-Related Requirements passengers and any area within the driver’s reach, including
The Division of Child Support Enforcement will direct DMV an unlocked glove compartment.
to suspend your driving privilege if you:
are late making child support payments by 90 days or
Transporting Children While Under the
$5,000, or
Influence of Alcohol/Drugs
fail to appear in court or comply with a subpoena,
summons or warrant related to paternity or child Conviction of any DUI offense involving a juvenile passenger
support hearings (age 17 or younger) in the vehicle at the time of the offense
carries an additional mandatory five-day jail term plus all
Refer to the DMV website under Reinstatement for other fines and jail sentences. You may also be charged
information on eligibility for restricted driving privileges and an additional fine of at least $500 and up to $1,000. A
requirements to reinstate your driving privilege. 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, 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.
If you are convicted of driving after illegally consuming
alcohol and your BAC was .08 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
Section 6:
License Types
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
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
Driver’s License
front passenger seat. The driver with you must hold a valid
Commercial Driver’s License driver’s license, be alert and able to assist you while you are
School Bus Driver’s License driving. The licensed driver with you may be age 18, 19 or
Motorcycle Learner’s Permit 20 if he or she is your legal guardian, brother, sister, half-
brother, half-sister, stepbrother or stepsister. For more
Motorcycle Driver’s License information about obtaining a learner’s permit, refer to the
International Driver’s License Parents in the Driver’s Seat (DMV 16) publication available at
www.dmvNOW.com and DMV customer service centers.
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
Basic Steps to Your Driver’s License (DMV 142) publication,
available at www.dmvNOW.com or DMV customer service
centers.
Section 6: License Types
Commercial Driver’s License International Driver’s License

A commercial driver’s license (CDL) allows you to operate An international driver’s license is not a valid driver’s
tractor-trailers, passenger buses, tank vehicles, school buses license and does not allow you to drive. It is only a foreign
for 15 or more occupants (including the driver), or vehicles translation of your existing valid driver’s license to be used
carrying hazardous materials. For more information about when you are traveling outside of the U.S. These permits
obtaining a CDL, refer to the Virginia Commercial Driver’s are issued by your local AAA, except to persons whose
Manual (DMV 60), available at www.dmvNOW.com or any driving privilege is suspended or revoked.
DMV customer service center.
If you are visiting the U.S. from a foreign country, you
may drive using your driver’s license issued by your home
School Bus Driver’s License country. Your home country driver’s license should be
accompanied by a translation of the license.
If you wish to operate a school bus designed to carry 15
occupants (including the driver), you do not need to obtain International driver’s licenses marketed by private sector
a commercial driver’s license. However, you will need to businesses are not valid and do not allow you to legally
take the commercial driver and school bus tests to obtain the operate a motor vehicle. Sale of any document claiming to
school bus endorsement on your driver’s license. You will be a driver’s license is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
be restricted to driving a bus designed to carry 15 occupants
(including the driver). This restriction will be printed on your
license. For information about licensing requirements to
operate larger school buses, refer to the Virginia Commercial
Driver’s Manual (DMV 60).
Motorcycle Learner’s Permit

A motorcycle learner’s permit allows you to operate a
motorcycle after 4 AM and before midnight. You may operate
the motorcycle only when supervised by a person who is at
least 21 years of age, licensed to operate a motorcycle, and
able to assist you while they are supervising from another
motorcycle or other vehicle riding along with you. No one,
other than the operator, can be on the motorcycle. You
must always wear an approved helmet while operating a
motorcycle in Virginia. For more information, refer to the
Virginia Motorcycle Operator Manual (DMV 2), available at
www.dmvNOW.com or DMV customer service centers.
Motorcycle Driver’s License

If you wish to operate a motorcycle in Virginia, you must pass
the driver’s license two-part knowledge exam, the motorcycle
knowledge exam and the motorcycle road skills test. If you
already hold a driver’s license, you may add a Class M to your
license. If you do not hold a driver’s license, you may obtain
a driver’s license restricted to a Class M that only allows you
to operate a motorcycle. For more information, refer to the
Virginia Motorcycle Operator Manual (DMV 2).
Section 7:
Other Important
Information
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
Receiving your license by mail
security, DMV does not issue licenses in customer service
Address changes centers.
New to Virginia
Titles, registrations, license plates, decals
Address Changes
Safety inspections
Insurance requirements If you move, you are required to notify DMV within 30 days.
The postal service will not forward your license to another
Applying to register to vote
address. If DMV does not have your correct address, the
Organ, eye and tissue donation 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).
Section 7: Other Important Information
You must have the vehicle registration card with you when Applying to Register to Vote
operating the vehicle. You must also register your vehicle
in your locality, if required. Check with your city or county You may apply to register to vote or to change your voter
government. 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
Safety Inspections 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 vehicle must pass an annual vehicle safety inspection
your voting rights restored by a circuit court if you have been
and display a valid safety inspection sticker. In certain
convicted of a felony or if you have been declared mentally
localities, your vehicle also must pass an emissions inspection.
incompetent.
For more information about Virginia safety inspections, visit
the Virginia State Police website at www.vsp.virginia.gov. To check your voter registration status, contact your local
registrar or the State Board of Elections at 1-800-552-9745 or
TDD 1-800-260-3466.
Insurance Requirements
To register a vehicle and obtain license plates, you must have
liability insurance or pay the $500 uninsured motor vehicle
Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation
fee. When you apply for a driver’s license, learner’s permit or
photo ID card, you will be asked if you wish to become
Insure your vehicle with a company authorized to do business
an organ, eye and tissue donor. If you decide to become a
in Virginia. At a minimum, your insurance policy must provide
donor, your choice will be noted on the front of your driver’s
the following liability insurance coverage:
license or ID card. The decision to become an organ, eye and
$25,000 for injury or death of one person; tissue donor is yours. Your decision will not affect your driving
$50,000 for injury or death of two or more people; and privileges.
$20,000 for property damage.
If you wish to become an organ/tissue donor, you must be
at least 18 years of age. If you are under age 18, you must
In some cases, liability insurance requirements may be
obtain your parent’s or legal guardian’s written consent.
higher. Refer to www.dmvNOW.com for more information
about DMV’s Insurance Verification Program and Financial
Responsibility Certifications.
Paying the uninsured motorist 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 or you did not pay
the uninsured motorist fee, DMV will suspend your driving
privilege until you:
pay a $500 fee, 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.
Section 8:
Sample Knowledge Exam
1. This road sign means: 6. If you drive after drinking, be aware that alcohol affects:
a. Warning of a hazard. a. Your coordination.
b. Yield right-of-way. b. Your vision.
c. Railroad crossing. c. Your judgment.
d. Speed limit. d. All of these.
2. This road sign means: 7. If you are driving on an icy or slippery road and have to
a. No U-turn. stop:
b. Curve. a. Apply brakes gently.
c. Turn right or left. b. Apply brakes in a normal manner.
d. Traffic flows only in the direction c. Keep foot off brake and let compression stop you.
of the arrow. d. Press brakes firmly.
3. This road sign means: 8. The correct hand signal for stopping is:
a. Right lane ends soon, merge left. a. Right hand and arm pointing downward.
b. Soft shoulders. b. Left hand and arm pointing straight out.
c. Low place in the road. c. Left hand and arm pointing downward.
d. Lane ends soon, merge right. d. Left hand and arm pointing upward.
4. This road sign means: 9. When a school bus stops to load or unload children,
a. Church. vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus must:
b. First aid station. a. Slow down and proceed with caution.
c. Four-way intersection. b. Maintain speed.
d. Railroad crossing. c. Stop, then proceed with caution.
d. Stop until all children are clear and the bus
5. This road sign means: moves again.
a. You may turn during the red light.
b. Pass only in the right lane. 10. If you are involved in a crash, you must:
c. One way street. a. Take the person to the nearest hospital.
d. Do not turn during the red light. 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.
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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Section 1 – Testing Blind spots..........................................................................19

Section 6 – License Types

Section 7 – Other Important

Section 8 – Sample Knowledge Exam

Tests will include a vision screening and

Two-Part Knowledge Exam

If you fail the exam and you are:

If you fail the driver’s license knowledge exam three times,

driver training school approved by DMV or the Department of Vision Screening

Driving – restricted to daylight hours only

Traffic signals, signs and

Red light: At a red light, come to a complete

Right turn on red: At some intersections you may turn right

Red arrow: Virginia law prohibits right and left

Triangle (Yield): You must slow down as you

Green light or arrow: At a green light, you may

Lane use signals indicate lanes where you can and

Yellow X: A yellow X signal means that you

Pentagon (School Zone/School Crossing): No Turn on Red: You may not

No Right Turn: Right turns are illegal. Do not

Advisory Speed: This sign indicates the

No Passing Zone: This sign marks the

Divided Highway Ends: The highway ahead no

Low Clearance Sign: The overpass ahead has a

Hill: A steep grade is ahead. Check your

Y Intersection: You must bear either right or

Traffic Control Devices:

Message Boards: You may see portable or permanent

Yellow center lines mean two-way traffic, flowing in

Double solid yellow lines

White lane arrows are curved or straight. If you are in a

Yield line is a line of

High Occupancy Vehicles (HOV)

Every time you get behind the wheel, you accept

Speed Limits Stopping for School Buses

Braking distance: The distance your car travels after you

Perception time, reaction distance and braking distance are

Yielding to Vehicles with Flashing Lights

Whether you are changing lanes, passing, entering or exiting a

When being passed, don’t speed up. Maintain a steady

Passing is unlawful and unsafe: When two vehicles are

Help the driver behind you by maintaining a safe following

Although you do not need a driver’s license to operate a

can be a major obstacle for a motorcyclist. Expect the see what’s

Parking Parking uphill Night Driving

Rain Protect yourself. If you see an aggressive driver, stay out of

Wearing seat belts, also called safety belts,

Exception: A waiver of the seat belt requirement may be

The driver is responsible for making sure that children

If you break certain laws or

If your license is suspended, your privilege to drive has

Alcohol Related Violations and Penalties

Providing Alcoholic Beverages: If you provide or sell

Misrepresentation of Age: If you are under age 21 and you

Whenever you drive, you must carry a

Commercial Driver’s License International Driver’s License

Motorcycle Learner’s Permit

Motorcycle Driver’s License