Virginia Laws on Teenage Driving

Virginia has graduated driver’s license requirements for young drivers.

Curfew Restrictions

Virginia law has different curfews for minors turning age 17 before July 1, 2013 and those turning age 17 after July 1, 2013. However, all persons under the age of 18 are not allowed to drive from midnight to 4 A.M. except when:

• You need to drive for employment.
• There’s a licensed spouse (18 or over), a parent, or another adult acting in loco parentis in the front passenger seat.
• You’re driving in certain emergency situations such as for a volunteer rescue squad or for firefighter work.
• You’re driving for school-sponsored activities.
• You turn 17 after July 1, 2013. There’s an exception for civic, religious, or public organization activities.

Restrictions on the Number of Passengers

If you are under age 18 and you turn age 17 after July 1, 2013, you need a licensed parent or an adult (acting in place of the parent) present to have more than one passenger under the age of 21. After you’ve had your license for one year, you can drive three passengers under the age of 21. Exceptions include school-sponsored activities, travel to and from school-sponsored activities, emergencies, and the presence of a licensed driver 21 or older in the front passenger seat.

If you are under age 18 and you turn age 17 on or before July 1, 2013, you need a licensed parent or an adult (acting in place of the parent) present in order to have more than one passenger under the age of 18.

Drivers with a learner’s permit can’t drive more than one passenger under age 18.

These restrictions don’t apply when driving family members.

All these restrictions end when you’re 18.

Minors who violate the curfew or passenger restrictions may have their license suspended.

Cellular Telephone/Wireless Telecommunications Device Restrictions

Drivers can’t drive while operating a cellular phone (hand-held or otherwise) except when there’s an emergency and the vehicle is lawfully parked or stopped.

Contact Attorney Joe Miller for Help

Unfortunately, even with these laws and restrictions in place, car accidents still occur, injuring unsuspecting motorists. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, there are legal options available to you. For the legal guidance and support you need in the aftermath of an accident, contact Norfolk attorney Joe Miller at Joe Miller Law, today by calling (888) 694-1671.