Laws prohibiting street racing, drag racing, and other motor vehicle speed and endurance competitions—as well as stunt exhibitions—vary from state to state. These laws are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code—and generally prohibit drivers from participating in:

• a race;

• a vehicle speed competition or contest;

• a drag race or acceleration contest;

• a test of physical endurance of the operator of a vehicle; or

• in connection with a drag race, an exhibition of vehicle speed or acceleration or to make a vehicle speed record.

Drag race may be defined as the operation of:

• two or more vehicles from a point side by side at accelerating speeds in a competitive attempt to outdistance each other; or

• one or more vehicles over a common selected course, from the same place to the same place, for the purpose of comparing the relative speeds or power of acceleration of the vehicle or vehicles in a specified distance or time.

Race is defined as the use of one or more vehicles attempting to:

• outgain or outdistance another vehicle or prevent another vehicle from passing;

• arrive at a given destination ahead of another vehicle or vehicles; or

• test the physical stamina or endurance of an operator over a long-distance driving route.

Illegal stunt driving or stunting usually involves a parking lot or blocked off street where drivers use their vehicles to perform stunts, such as driving on two wheels; “doing donuts” by spinning the car in a circle; or drifting while turning a corner.

In Virginia, street racing, drag racing, and other related motor vehicle speed and endurance competitions, as well as stunt exhibitions, are illegal under state law. Virginia Code § 46.2-865 specifically prohibits any person from engaging in a race between two or more motor vehicles on any highway, roadway, or premises to which the public has access. The term 'race' includes any situation where vehicles are competing to outdistance each other, prevent passing, reach a destination first, or test endurance over a long distance. Additionally, § 46.2-865.1 addresses the prohibition of racing; aiding or abetting racing; and penalties for individuals who promote, coordinate, or assist in the racing event. Engaging in these activities is a serious offense and can result in criminal charges, including misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances and whether it is a repeat offense. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and driver's license suspension. Stunt driving, which may involve maneuvers like 'doing donuts' or drifting, can also be penalized under reckless driving statutes, such as Virginia Code § 46.2-852 and § 46.2-853, which prohibit driving a vehicle on any highway recklessly or at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.