PermitoVirginia: what the handbook says and what the law says
A handbook is written to teach, and laws change. Below are places where the Virginia handbook (Virginia Driver's Manual (DMV 39), April 2026 edition) and the current law do not say the same thing. This is not a criticism of the agency: the handbook is a good study guide, and the test may follow it. Know both.
Insurance (1)
The handbook says
The manual says that to register a vehicle you must have liability insurance "or pay the $500 uninsured motor vehicle fee," and that paying the fee lets you register and drive for one year. (Section 7: Other Important Information, Insurance Requirements, p. 34 (also Section 5, Insurance Monitoring Program, p. 29))
The law says
Since July 1, 2024, Virginia no longer lets owners pay a fee instead of carrying insurance. DMV stopped collecting the uninsured motor vehicle fee, and every registered vehicle needs a liability policy that meets the state minimums. Current section 46.2-707 makes owning or operating an uninsured vehicle a Class 3 misdemeanor; the $600 noncompliance fee it mentions applies only to getting a suspended license and registration back. (Code of Virginia 46.2-707). In effect since July 1, 2024.
What to do on the test
Know both. A test question may repeat the manual's $500 fee option. On the road, the current law is what applies: you need an insurance policy that meets the minimums, and a fee does not replace it.
Insurance (2)
The handbook says
The manual's liability table has two rows: $25,000 / $50,000 / $20,000 for policies effective before January 1, 2022, and $30,000 / $60,000 / $20,000 for policies effective on or after that date. (Section 7: Other Important Information, Insurance Requirements, p. 34)
The law says
For policies effective on or after January 1, 2025, section 46.2-472(B) requires at least $50,000 for injury or death of one person, $100,000 for two or more people in one accident, and $25,000 for property damage. (Code of Virginia 46.2-472). In effect since January 1, 2025.
What to do on the test
Know both. For the test, expect the figures in the manual's table. For buying or renewing a policy, use the 2025 limits in the law, which are higher.
Know both
On the test, the answer may follow the handbook. On the road, the law applies. Learn what the handbook says and what the law says.
Spotted a mistake or a newer rule? Write to support@permito.app and we will check it.