Virginia Administrative Code Title 24 - TRANSPORTATION AND MOTOR VEHICLES
What Title 24 VAC Is
Title 24 of the Virginia Administrative Code contains the rules and regulations issued by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and related agencies that govern all aspects of transportation and motor vehicles in Virginia.
These rules cover how vehicles are registered, licensed, operated, inspected, and how highways and transportation infrastructure are managed. They are legally binding and ensure public safety, fairness, and efficiency in transportation.
Main Areas Covered in Title 24 VAC
Vehicle Registration and Licensing
Rules for registering cars, trucks, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles.
Requirements for obtaining and renewing driver’s licenses.
Identification of special licenses (commercial, motorcycle, learner’s permits).
Driver and Vehicle Safety Regulations
Safety standards for vehicles, including equipment requirements (lights, brakes, tires).
Rules for inspections and emissions testing.
Driver conduct rules (speed limits, seatbelt requirements, DUI/DWI regulations).
Commercial Vehicles
Licensing and operation requirements for commercial trucks and buses.
Rules regarding vehicle weight limits, cargo safety, and permits for oversized vehicles.
Registration and tax requirements for commercial operators.
Transportation Infrastructure
Rules for the use and maintenance of state highways, bridges, and tunnels.
Oversight of construction, maintenance, and repair of roads.
Guidelines for traffic control, signage, and road safety measures.
Motor Vehicle Taxes and Fees
Procedures for collecting vehicle registration fees, road taxes, and special fees.
Penalties for late payment or non-compliance.
Enforcement and Penalties
Authority of state police and transportation officers to enforce rules.
Fines, penalties, license suspension or revocation for violations.
Procedures for hearings and appeals related to motor vehicle violations.
Special Permits and Exceptions
Permits for oversize or overweight vehicles.
Rules for special operations such as road construction, emergency vehicles, or temporary exemptions.
Why These Rules Exist
Safety: Protects drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Orderly Transportation: Ensures roads and highways are used efficiently.
Fairness: Establishes clear rules for all vehicle owners and operators.
Infrastructure Protection: Prevents damage to roads and bridges from overweight or unsafe vehicles.
Example of How Title 24 VAC Works
A new car owner must register their vehicle with the DMV, pay registration fees, and ensure it passes safety and emissions inspections.
A truck company must obtain commercial permits, follow weight limits, and comply with driver-hour regulations.
A driver who violates speed limits or drives under the influence may face fines, license suspension, or other penalties.
✅ In short: Title 24 VAC is Virginia’s comprehensive regulatory framework for transportation and motor vehicles, covering registration, licensing, safety, commercial operations, fees, road use, and enforcement. It ensures the state’s roadways are safe, fair, and efficiently managed.
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