How Much Is A Ticket For Reckless Driving In Virginia?
How much is a ticket for reckless driving in Virginia? It is not a simple traffic ticket but a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 46.2-862, carrying up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a 6-month license suspension. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides statewide reckless driving defense with firm-wide experience across Virginia courts.
Virginia Reckless Driving Statute and Penalties
In Virginia, reckless driving is a criminal traffic violation, not a minor infraction. The law defines multiple acts as reckless, including driving 20 mph or more over the posted limit, driving over 85 mph regardless of the limit, and general reckless operation. This is a serious driving offense with significant consequences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official state code, see Va. Code § 46.2-862 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Understanding the Cost and Process of a Reckless Driving Charge
When facing this charge, the immediate question is how much is a ticket for reckless driving in Virginia? The financial cost is just one part. The court process is mandatory, and the long-term costs of a criminal record are substantial. A strong reckless driving defense strategy is critical.
- Receive the summons with your court date and location.
- Consult with a reckless driving attorney to review the evidence and your driving record.
- Your attorney may file pre-trial motions or negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction.
- Prepare for and attend your court hearing in the appropriate General District Court.
- If convicted, your attorney can advise on the appeal process to Circuit Court for a new trial.
- Address any DMV license suspension requirements post-trial.
In Virginia, a reckless driving ticket carries penalties of up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, a 6-month license suspension, and 6 DMV demerit points.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (General – § 46.2-852) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Up to 6-month suspension | 6 DMV points; Criminal Record |
| Reckless Driving by Speed (≥85 mph or ≥20 over) (§ 46.2-862) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Up to 6-month suspension | 6 DMV points; Criminal Record |
| Improper Driving (Reduction) | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $500 | 3 DMV points | No criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We focus on a full representation for each client’s unique situation.
Case Results
Our firm has a firm-wide track record across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with 4,739+ documented results and a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In traffic cases, favorable outcomes often involve reductions to non-criminal infractions like improper driving or outright dismissals.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our lead attorney for Virginia traffic matters, Bryan Block, is a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience. His inside knowledge of traffic investigations and police procedures is a key asset in building a defense.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. Our Fairfax location serves clients statewide. We are a traffic violation lawyer near Virginia residents facing serious charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a felony in Virginia?
No. Reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is the most serious level of misdemeanor. However, if the reckless driving results in a death, it can be charged as a felony.
Can I just pay the fine for reckless driving in Virginia?
No. Reckless driving is a non-prepayable offense. You must appear in court on your scheduled date. A judge will determine the fine and any other penalties if you are found guilty.
How long does a reckless driving conviction stay on my record?
A conviction remains on your permanent criminal record. For DMV purposes, the 6 demerit points stay on your driving record for 2 years from the conviction date.
Will I go to jail for a first-time reckless driving offense?
It depends. While possible, jail time is less common for first-time offenders with a clean record, especially if the speed was not extremely high. An attorney can argue for alternatives like driver improvement school.
What is the difference between reckless driving and a speeding ticket?
Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor with potential jail time. A simple speeding ticket is a traffic infraction with only a fine and points. The threshold is often 20+ mph over the limit or any speed over 85 mph.
Should I hire a lawyer for reckless driving?
Yes. Given the criminal penalties, potential jail time, and long-term impact on your record and insurance, a reckless driving attorney is crucial to seek a reduction or dismissal.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Traffic Lawyer hub page. If you are in a specific locality, view our pages for Reckless Driving Lawyer Fairfax VA and Traffic Reckless Driving Lawyer Fairfax VA. For other legal needs, consider Theft Defense Lawyer Virginia.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.