Virginia is one of the only states in the nation that requires drivers under 18 to participate in a ceremony in order to get a license.
It may soon be easier for new drivers in Virginia to get a license. A new bill making its way through the general assembly would allow minors applying for a driver's license to skip the mandatory courthouse ceremony.
The bill is being championed by Sen. John Edwards (D) of Roanoke and was submitted on January 12. The change would make it easier and less complicated for people under 18 to get their driver's license, especially if they are attending school out of state.
In Virginia, minors who pass the driver's tests and are approved for a driver's permit must attend a mandatory ceremony at the county juvenile and domestic relations district court. Many times, the ceremony includes a “scared straight” presentation where the new licensees watch a video on drunk driving and hear victim impact statements. The ceremonies are typically held once a week. Minors who move to Virginia and already have a license do not have to participate to get a license.
The language of the bill does not take away the ceremony, it just makes it possible for a juvenile court judge to waive the requirement and have the license mailed.
Senate bill No. 139 made it out of committee and was passed by the Senate with no opposition on January 19. Now it must go to the house, and if passed, will be signed into law by Governor Glenn Youngkin.
The state of Virginia has some of the most stringent traffic laws in the United States. Just driving at a speed that's 20 miles per hour over the posted limit can get you up to a year in jail, a $2,500 fine, six points on your license, and your license suspended for up to six months.
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