Points And Suspension
Va. Code 46.2-492 — the Uniform Demerit Point System, and its ceiling for one conviction
Points are separate from the fine. They are recorded against the driver for each reportable conviction, by the scale the statute sets.
Up to six. The Commissioner assigns demerit points to reportable traffic convictions on a graduated scale based on the severity of the offense and the hazard to others, with a ceiling, for any single conviction, of six.
- The top of the scale, six, for serious offenses such as driving while intoxicated, reckless driving, speeding twenty or more miles per hour over the limit, and racing.
- Out-of-state convictions are assigned points as if committed in Virginia.
- No points are assigned for parking or stopping on the shoulder to sleep or rest, on the court's separate finding.
- Convictions for registration, insurance or equipment offenses are not included, except as the title provides.
What happens at a given total, and the safe driving points that can offset demerits, are in neighboring sections. Insurance surcharges, commercial license rules, suspensions for a single serious offense such as impaired driving, and reinstatement fees are set elsewhere and are not on this page. Counting the points on a particular record is a question for the state's licensing agency or a licensed Virginia attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- Va. Code 46.2-492 — Uniform Demerit Point System
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Virginia attorney.