High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Systems

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HOV - Hampton Roads: How to Use

Share a Ride

During HOV-restricted periods, HOV-2 lanes require at least two people per passenger vehicle. Some vehicles have exemptions.

During all other times, HOV lanes are open to all passenger vehicles, except when the reversible lanes are closed.

Many travelers already have enough passengers, making the HOV lanes an easy way to speed up the trip.

If you need to find a rideshare partner, contact TRAFFIX. They have a database that can help match you with riders with similar commutes.

By ridesharing, you'll save time and money.

Plan Your Trip to Virginia

If you've never taken HOV lanes before, it's easy to plan your trip by looking at the map for the Hampton Roads area. Be sure to check the HOV operating hours for Hampton Roads.

Look for the HOV Symbols

reversible lanes

barriered lane

diamond lane

HOV lanes are marked with the restricted lane symbol.

Many lanes also have electronic message signs which display the required occupancy for using the lanes, the hours HOV restrictions are in effect, and where to enter and exit.

Some HOV lanes are separated by barriers, while otherss are simply the left lane. See the HOV lane system page for detailed information.

monitoring

non-barriered

electric signs

Message signs will advise if the lanes are open or closed.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) closes all entrances to barrier-separated HOV lanes for a short time to ensure all vehicles have completed their trip out before opening them to traffic in the opposite direction.

Then, VDOT drives the lanes to make sure no cars are left behind. HOV lanes also have emergency shoulders which are monitored by the Virginia State Police and VDOT's incident responders.

Questions?

Contact the VDOT Hampton Roads District at: hamptonroadsinfo@VDOT.Virginia.gov