Traffic Cases and Driver's Licenses
Are traffic cases criminal or civil?
Some are criminal, and some are civil. Consult with a lawyer if you have any questions.
Which court handles traffic cases?
Most traffic cases are handled by the General District Court in the city or county where the ticket was issued.
Where can I find information about paying my traffic ticket online?
This Self-Help website includes information about paying your traffic ticket online.
Where can I find information about restoring my driver's license?
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles offers information about reinstating your Virginia driver's license. Note the Virginia DMV website states that "you may obtain your specific reinstatement requirements by requesting a personal Driver Transcript and a Compliance Summary, using the customer logon feature. Use these documents to assist in reinstating your driving privileges or while discussing your requirements with a DMV representative." At the bottom of this panel on the webpage, there is a link to "Compliance Summary Request FAQs" (frequently asked questions), which may be helpful. Both of these documents, explained here, can be requested online after creating an online DMV account. To do this you will need your DMV customer number (which appears on your driver's license) OR social security number, date of birth, and myDMV account PIN. (You will select a PIN when you create your myDMV account.)
The DMV website also offers information about Driver Improvement Clinics in Virginia and the Virginia driver’s point system. You can learn more about requesting a copy of your driver record (moving violations and points assessed) from the Department of Motor Vehicles here.
Drive to Work is a Virginia non-profit organization. It assists qualifying low-income people and people who have been in jail or prison to restore driving privileges so they can drive to work and hold a job.
Where can I find court forms about driving privileges or my driver's license?
Visit the Driver's License and Driving Privileges Forms page for more information.