What driving restrictions apply to 17-year-olds in Virginia?
In Virginia triggering licensing restrictions apply to drivers under 18 years old, including 17-year-olds, to reduce crash risk while gaining driving experience.
Curfew restriction:
Drivers under 18 may not drive between midnight and 4:00 a.m., except when:
Driving to or from work
Traveling to or from a school-, civic-, religious-, or public organization–sponsored activity supervised by an adult
Accompanied by a licensed parent, guardian, or spouse age 18 or older seated in the front passenger seat
Responding to an emergency (including volunteer firefighter or rescue duties)
Passenger restriction:
May carry only one passenger under age 21 unless accompanied by a licensed parent or guardian in the front seat
After holding a license for one year, up to three passengers under age 21 are allowed only when:
Traveling to/from a school-sponsored activity
A licensed driver age 21 or older is in the front seat
In an emergency
Learner’s permit holders may carry only one passenger under age 18
Passenger limits do not apply to family members
Cell phone restriction:
Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using cell phones or wireless devices while driving
Devices may be used only in an emergency and only when the vehicle is lawfully stopped or parked
Violating curfew, passenger, or cell phone restrictions may result in license suspension.
NOVA DRIVING SCHOOL VA offers a Teen Behind-the-Wheel Driving Course designed for drivers under 18. This course meets Virginia DMV requirements and helps teen drivers understand and comply with state driving restrictions while working toward a full driver’s license.
