PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
What is the fine for driving in the HOV lane?
I recently moved to Virginia and my commute has been rough so far. I always see people use the HOV lane, but I’m not even sure if they have multiple people in their cars. How much is a fine for driving in the HOV lane?
Kaitlin May · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
When you’re trapped in traffic, carpool lanes can be tempting—but they’re not worth the risk. The fine for driving in the HOV lane differs by state, but they usually run a minimum of $100 and a maximum of $500.
HOV, or high-occupancy vehicle, lanes are designed to drive down congestion on the roads and encourage people to carpool. Fewer cars on the road can be a help to the environment and can keep the roads safer as a whole.
While well-intentioned, HOV lanes can be misused. They’re usually distinguished by road signs that denote whether:
- Two or more passengers need to be on board, or
- Three or more passengers need to be on board.
Some groups of two may wind up in the HOV 3+ lane, which can earn them a ticket. Other drivers either miss or aren’t aware of the sign’s meaning, and unintentionally disobey the law. Of course, some drivers aim to take advantage of the less-crowded lane knowing they don’t meet the HOV requirements.
No matter how you end up illegally in the HOV lane, you’ll face expensive tickets, even on the first offense. Subsequent tickets are usually double the amount of the first ticket and come along with
points on your driving record
. Points are a surefire way to raise your
car insurance rates
, which is why having the broker app Jerry
in your pocket is crucial. Before your policy renews with the points in tow, Jerry can find you a more affordable premium from one of 50-plus top insurance companies.It takes just 45 seconds to sign up, and you’ll be on your way to saving an average of $887 per year!
View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies