VA DMV Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield VA DMV facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. How many demerit points are assigned for reckless driving in Virginia? → 6 points
2. When is it most dangerous to drive in Virginia after rainfall begins? → During the first few minutes, when oil and water mix on the road surface
3. How many safe driving points can a Virginia driver earn per year for having no traffic violations? → 1 point
4. What is the minimum jail time for a first DUI offense in Virginia? → No mandatory jail time
5. How close to a fire hydrant are you prohibited from parking in Virginia? → 15 feet
6. What does it mean if a curb is painted red in Virginia? → No stopping, standing, or parking at any time
7. How long does a DUI conviction remain on an official Virginia driving record? → 11 years
8. If a Virginia driver under 21 is convicted of a second offense of driving with a BAC of 0.02% or more, what is the license suspension period? → Until age 21 or 1 year, whichever is longer
9. What is the minimum distance you must maintain from a bus stop when parking in Virginia? → 15 feet
10. How close to a fire station driveway may you park in Virginia? → 20 feet
11. What is Virginia's annual uninsured motor vehicle fee for drivers who choose not to carry insurance? → $500
12. What document proves ownership when registering a vehicle in Virginia? → Vehicle title
13. Which of the following correctly describes the order of DMV consequences as demerit points increase within 12 months in Virginia? → Warning letter → Clinic → Suspension
14. Which of the following is a 4-point violation in Virginia's demerit point system? → Improper passing
15. Which of the following violations carries 6 demerit points in Virginia? → DUI/DWI
16. What is the recommended action if your vehicle breaks down on a Virginia highway? → Move as far off the roadway as possible, turn on hazard lights, and call for help
17. How far from a crosswalk may you park in Virginia? → 20 feet
18. In Virginia, when you buy a used car from a dealer, how many days do you have to get the title in your name? → 30 days
19. What should you do if you must drive through standing water in Virginia? → Slow down, drive through carefully, and test brakes afterward
20. Can you be charged with DUI in Virginia while sitting in a parked car with the engine running? → Yes, if you are in actual physical control of the vehicle
21. What is the maximum speed limit on most Virginia interstate highways? → 70 mph
22. At an uncontrolled intersection in Virginia (no signs or signals), who has the right of way? → The driver on the right
23. At what age can you obtain a learner's permit in Virginia? → 5 years and 6 months old
24. Which of the following violations is assigned 6 demerit points in Virginia? → Hit and run
25. When should you use your headlights? → During rain, snow, fog, or when visibility is less than 500 feet
26. Virginia law requires all vehicles to stop for a school bus when it’s stopped with flashing red lights and an extended stop sign → 3 feet
27. What is the open container law in Virginia regarding alcoholic beverages in a vehicle? → Open containers of alcohol are prohibited in the passenger compartment
28. What does a white rectangular sign with a black number represent? → Maximum speed limit
29. What is the maximum number of safe driving points a Virginia driver can accumulate? → 5 points
30. Can safe driving points offset demerit points on a Virginia driving record? → Yes, safe points are subtracted from accumulated demerit points