Virginia Failure to Signal Ticket: Fines, Points & What to Do Next

You changed lanes. Maybe you turned onto a side street. It felt routine — but if you didn't use your turn signal, a Virginia traffic officer could pull you over for a failure to signal violation. It might seem like a minor inconvenience, but this ticket comes with real consequences for your driving record and wallet.

Here's everything you need to know about a Virginia failure to signal ticket, including the fines, DMV demerit points, and the most effective steps you can take to protect your record after receiving one.

What Is a Failure to Signal Violation in Virginia?

Virginia law requires drivers to use a turn signal any time they intend to turn, change lanes, or pull away from a parked position. Under Virginia Code § 46.2-848, failing to give a proper signal when required is a traffic infraction.

A signal must be given continuously for at least 100 feet before making a turn in a business or residential district. Common situations include changing lanes on the highway without signaling, making a turn from a parking lot without using your blinker, merging onto or off of a highway without signaling, and pulling away from a curb without signaling.

Virginia Failure to Signal Fines and Penalties

A Virginia failure to signal ticket is classified as a traffic infraction — not a criminal offense — but it still carries financial and driving record consequences.

How Much Is the Fine?

The base fine for a failure to signal violation in Virginia is typically around $90 to $150, though court costs and fees can push the total higher.

DMV Demerit Points

A failure to signal conviction adds 3 DMV demerit points to your Virginia driving record. These points remain on your record for two years from the date of the offense. Drivers who accumulate 12 or more demerit points within 12 months face mandatory suspension of their driving privilege.

How a Failure to Signal Ticket Affects Your Car Insurance

Beyond fines and DMV points, a failure to signal conviction can trigger an insurance rate increase. A moving violation like this signals increased risk, which can result in higher premiums — sometimes by 10% to 20% — lasting three years or more.

What to Do After a Virginia Failure to Signal Ticket

1. Decide Whether to Contest the Ticket

You have the right to challenge a failure to signal ticket in Virginia traffic court. If you believe you did signal properly, or if there are circumstances that could reduce or dismiss the charge, it may be worth consulting with a traffic attorney.

2. Pay the Fine (If You're Not Contesting)

If you choose not to contest the ticket, you'll need to pay the fine by the deadline listed on your summons.

3. Take a Virginia Driver Improvement Course

This is the most powerful step you can take after any moving violation. Virginia's DMV allows drivers to voluntarily complete a state-approved 8-hour driver improvement course to earn 5 safe driving points. These positive points help offset the 3 demerit points from your failure to signal conviction. You can complete the course entirely online for just $74.99.

4. Monitor Your Virginia Driving Record

After your ticket is processed, check your official driving record through the Virginia DMV to confirm the points have been added and to track your standing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many points does a failure to signal ticket add in Virginia?

A failure to signal violation in Virginia results in 3 DMV demerit points. These points stay on your record for two years. To offset them, complete a Virginia DMV-approved driver improvement course and earn 5 safe driving points.

Can a failure to signal ticket be dismissed in Virginia?

In some cases, yes. A traffic attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction or dismissal, especially if it's your first violation. Courts sometimes offer deferred disposition, where the charge is dismissed if you complete a driver improvement course.

Will a failure to signal ticket raise my car insurance in Virginia?

It can. Rates can increase by 10–20% or more. Completing a Virginia DMV-approved driver improvement course may help you qualify for a safe driver discount with some insurers.

Protect Your Driving Record — Enroll Today

ABC Driving Improvement offers Virginia's DMV-approved 8-hour online driver improvement course for just $74.99. Complete it entirely at your own pace, earn 5 safe driving points, and take control of your record before the next insurance renewal cycle.