Teen Driving Restrictions
Virginia's driving restrictions are not meant to penalize teen drivers, but to help them stay safe while they gain valuable driving experience. Studies have found that these restrictions work to reduce the number of car crashes among young drivers.
Curfew Restrictions
Virginia's curfew laws prohibit a driver under age 18 who holds a learner's permit or driver's license from driving midnight to 4 A.M. If you hold a driver's license you may drive during these hours:
- in case of an emergency;
- when traveling to and from work or a school-sponsored event;
- when accompanied by a parent or other adult acting in place of a parent;
- when responding to an emergency call as a volunteer firefighter or rescue squad personnel.
Restrictions on the Number of Passengers
If you are under age 18, you may carry only one passenger under age 18 during the first year that you hold your driver's license. After you have held your license for one year and until you reach the age of 18, you may carry three passengers under age 18. Learner's permit holders may not carry more than one passenger under age 18.
Passenger restrictions do not apply to family members.
Violations of either the curfew or passenger restrictions can result in the suspension of your driver's license.
Cellular Telephone/Wireless Telecommunications Device Restrictions
Virginia's cellular telephone law restricts a driver under age 18 who holds a learner's permit or driver's license from using any cellular telephone or any other wireless telecommunications device, regardless of whether such device is or is not hand-held. If you are under age 18, you can only use a cell phone or any other telecommunications device for a driver emergency, and the vehicle must be lawfully parked or stopped.