In Virginia, a speed camera ticket mailed to your home is a civil penalty, not a criminal or moving violation. It will not show up on your DMV driving record, it will not add demerit points to your license and it will not be reported to your insurance company. The fine is capped at $100. Your main obligation is simply to pay it on time (or contest it within the deadline) to avoid late fees and registration holds.
What Is a Speed Camera Ticket in Virginia?
In Virginia, automated speed enforcement is allowed by law under Virginia Code § 46.2-882.1. Speed monitoring devices, commonly known as speed cameras, are permitted in three types of locations:
- School crossing zones
- Highway work zones
- High-risk intersection segments (An area near a school where a fatal crash happened since 2014)
A ticket is generated when a photo speed monitoring device captures a vehicle traveling at least 10 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. A citation is then mailed to the registered owner, renter or lessee of the vehicle.
Does a Speed Camera Ticket Go on My Driving Record?
No, a speed camera ticket will not go on your driving record. Tickets issued by a speed monitoring device, or speed camera, are civil penalties only punishable by a fine. They are not reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and cannot be used by insurance companies to adjust rates.
They are not the same traditional speeding tickets issued by law enforcement officers, which are moving violations that may result in points on the driver’s record and increased insurance premiums.
How Much Is the Fine?
The fine for a speed camera citation in Virginia is capped by state law at $100 per offense.
What If Someone Else Was Driving My Car?
Under Virginia law, the owner, lessee or renter of a vehicle is initially presumed liable for a speed camera penalty. However, if you were not driving the car, you can contest that presumption and move liability to the actual driver through an affidavit or though testimony at a court hearing.
What About Commercial Drivers or CDL Holders?
While a speeding camera ticket is not reported to the DMV and will not affect your driving record, it’s wise to consult with a traffic attorney if you have any concerns. Federal regulations governing CDL holders are strict, and any uncertainty about how a speed camera ticket might affect employment is worth addressing proactively.
