Low-Speed Vehicle Access to Roadways

A low-speed vehicle is defined as a four-wheeled electrically- or gas-powered vehicle capable of achieving a maximum speed of at least 20 miles per hour (mph) but not greater than 25 mph. The vehicle must comply with safety standards specified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, section 571.500. Low-speed vehicles titled and registered with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) must display designated DMV license plates. Low-speed vehicles may not operate on roads with posted speed limits of more than 35 mph or on roads where the Virginia Department of Transportation or the local governing body has prohibited their use.

(Reference Virginia Code 46.2-100, 46.2-908.2, 46.2-908.3, and 46.2-711)

Jurisdiction: Virginia

Type: Laws and Regulations

Amended: Apr 3, 2013

Technologies: NEVs

See all Virginia Laws and Incentives.