Getting your first traffic ticket in Virginia can be overwhelming, but understanding your options can help you navigate the process. Whether you want to pay the fine, contest the ticket, or take a **defensive driving course** to reduce penalties, knowing what to expect can make a big difference.
What Happens When You Get a Ticket?
When you receive a ticket in Virginia, it will specify the violation, the fine amount, and your court date (if applicable). You typically have **three main options** for handling the ticket:
- Pay the Fine: Accepting the penalty and paying the fine means you are pleading guilty. This may result in demerit points on your driving record.
- Contest the Ticket: You can choose to fight the ticket in court, potentially avoiding fines and points.
- Take a Defensive Driving Course: In some cases, Virginia courts allow drivers to take a **driver improvement course** to reduce points or dismiss the ticket.
Understanding Virginia’s Demerit Point System
Virginia uses a **point-based system** to track driving records. Different traffic violations result in **3, 4, or 6 demerit points**, depending on the severity of the offense. Accumulating too many points may lead to license suspension.
Common Traffic Violations and Points
- Speeding (1-9 mph over the limit) – 3 points
- Speeding (10-19 mph over the limit) – 4 points
- Reckless driving (20+ mph over the limit) – 6 points
- Failure to obey a traffic signal – 4 points
Can You Dismiss Your First Ticket?
In some cases, Virginia courts may allow first-time offenders to **attend a defensive driving course** to **dismiss the ticket** or **reduce the demerit points**. Check with the local court that issued your ticket to see if this option is available.
Benefits of Taking a Defensive Driving Course
Completing a **state-approved driver improvement course** can provide several benefits:
- Dismiss your first ticket (if eligible)
- Reduce points on your driving record
- Lower your car insurance premiums
- Improve your driving skills
How to Handle Your First Ticket in Virginia
Follow these steps to determine the best way to handle your traffic violation:
- Review Your Ticket: Check the details, including the violation, fine, and deadline.
- Decide How to Proceed: Determine whether to pay the fine, contest the ticket, or complete a defensive driving course.
- Check with the Court: If you want to take a **driver improvement course**, confirm eligibility with the issuing court.
- Complete the Course (if applicable): Enroll in a **state-approved defensive driving course** like **DriveSafe Online** and submit your completion certificate before the deadline.
Final Thoughts
Your first traffic ticket in Virginia doesn’t have to lead to long-term consequences. By exploring your options—especially taking a defensive driving course—you can minimize the impact on your record, avoid higher insurance rates, and maintain a clean driving history.
Patrick M. is Editorial Director for the always expanding DriveSafe Online library of courses. With over two decades of experience developing award-winning training, he now focuses on innovating online driver safety training. Pulling from his background in journalism, he steers the wheel behind the creation of top-tier content that promotes a better journey—whether on the digital highway of learning or the real roads we travel every day.