West Virginia Traffic Law Guide — Tickets, Points & Penalties
Traffic violations, point system, license suspension, and your rights after a traffic citation in West Virginia.
A traffic citation may seem minor, but the consequences — fines, points on your license, insurance increases, and potential suspension — can add up fast. You have options after receiving a ticket: pay the fine, attend traffic school, or contest the charge in court. Each choice carries different implications for your driving record and your wallet. Understanding those options before you decide is how you protect your license and limit long-term costs.
West Virginia's Point System
West Virginia uses a Points system to track driving violations. West Virginia uses a point system: points are assigned by violation type under DMV rules; confirm the current schedule with a lawyer or the DMV. Accumulating 12 or 13 points brings a 30-day license suspension (a suspension, not a revocation); how long points and infractions stay on the record is set by DMV administration — confirm the current periods with a lawyer or the DMV.
Common Traffic Violations and Penalties
| Penalty | Points | |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding | Fine of $5-$200 depending on speed over limit | Varies by speed |
| Reckless Driving | Misdemeanor — 5-90 days jail, $25-$500 fine for first offense; 10 days to 6 months and $50-$1,000 for a second or subsequent offense; 30 days to 1 year and $50-$1,000 if the driving proximately causes serious bodily injury | Major violation |
| Red Light/Stop Sign | Varies | |
| Driving Without Insurance | Suspension + fine | Major violation |
Speed Limits in West Virginia
West Virginia's speed limits are: 25 mph residential, 55 mph rural, 70 mph interstate §17C-6-1. Exceeding these limits can result in fines, points, and increased insurance premiums.
Your Options After a Traffic Citation
Traffic School / Defensive Driving
An approved defensive driving course may deduct 3 points if the licensee has not reached 14 points, and may be used for point reduction only once every 12 months; a pending 30-day suspension for 12 or 13 points is rescinded if proof of completion and the reinstatement fee are submitted before the suspension's effective date. Taking a defensive driving course can help keep your record clean and insurance rates low.
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Frequently Asked Questions
General answers to common questions. Specific outcomes depend on your facts and timing.
If you have a deadline, court notice, or upcoming hearing, mention it when requesting assistance so timing can be evaluated promptly.