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Virginia Open Container Law (2026)
Restricted: Restricted (presumption law). Drinking while driving is prohibited; an open, partially consumed container in the passenger area plus signs of consumption creates a rebuttable presumption the driver drank (Class 4 misdemeanor).
RestrictedVerified May 31, 2026
Restricted (presumption law). Drinking while driving is prohibited; an open, partially consumed container in the passenger area plus signs of consumption creates a rebuttable presumption the driver drank (Class 4 misdemeanor). Trunk/inaccessible areas excluded. (Va. Code 18.2-323.1.)
Official source: law.lis.virginia.gov →
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