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What is the seat belt law in Virginia?

I just moved to Virginia, and I’m still learning all the different traffic laws here. What are the rules for wearing seat belts?

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Macy Fouse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
The seat belt law in Virginia requires every person under 18 or anyone in the front seat to be properly buckled when riding in the vehicle—and the driver is responsible if they aren’t. Adult passengers can technically ride without a seat belt in the back seat, but it’s not considered safe.
The seat belt law for minors is a primary offense. That means if anyone under 18—including the driver—isn’t wearing a seat belt, the driver can be pulled over and fined due to negligence. The fines range from $25 to $50, depending on the circumstances.
The seat belt law for adults in Virginia is considered a secondary offense, so you can’t be pulled over for not wearing a seat belt; you have to have been pulled over for another violation before you can be fined.
But even with a fine, a seat belt offense is a non-moving violation so it’s unlikely to affect your driving record. As long as you don’t have multiple seat belt violations, these infractions aren’t likely to affect your
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