How to Renew Your Virginia Car Registration: A Complete Guide
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Virginia law requires vehicle owners to maintain a valid registration with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The registration notes the names of a car's owners and their current address and is one of the vehicle records the DMV uses to track auto ownership in the state.
Registration isn't a one-time deal. Residents must complete a Virginia car registration renewal to keep their information current with the DMV.
Eligibility Criteria for Virginia Registration Car Renewal
There are only two basic requirements for renewing your registration: you still own the vehicle, and you live at the same Virginia address.
If you no longer own the car, you may still get a registration renewal notice if you didn't report the transaction to the DMV. This should prompt you to immediately notify them that the car isn't yours anymore. It's state law to report any Virginia title transfers, even if the new owner lives outside Virginia. You won't need to renew your registration, and the DMV will update its title records for the vehicle. The new owner should use the Virginia Application for Title to register the car if they live in the state.
You can report any address changes to the Virginia DMV online through its website portal. Once you update your address to your current residence, you can renew your registration.
Required Documents for Renewing Your Virginia Car Registration
You won't need any special documents to renew your registration online. However, your renewal notice or current registration may be helpful, as it lists the title number and vehicle identification number (VIN) for your car. You may need those details to fill out the online form.
For mail-in renewals, use the renewal notice you received in the mail. Detach the bottom portion and include a check or money order for your renewal fees. You can mail it to the address provided on the form.
If you opt for an in-person renewal, complete the DMV Application for Registration (Form VSA 14) and bring it with you. You may need to show proof of address and insurance.
Virginia Car Registration Renewal Fees
The cost to renew your vehicle registration depends on its class and weight. Current registration fees are:
- Passenger vehicle - 4,000 lbs or less: $30.75
- Passenger vehicle - 4,001 to 6,500 lbs: $35.75
- Pickup truck - 4,001 to 6,500 lbs: $35.75
- Pickup truck - 6,501 to 10,000 lbs: $44.75
- Moped: $18.25
- Motorcycle: $24.75
- Autocycle: $21.75
- Low speed vehicle: $30.75
Northern Virginia residents pay an extra $2 for emissions inspections on top of the renewal fee. You can save a few dollars by renewing online or opting for an extended two or three-year registration period.
If you have personalized license plates, you may owe an extra annual plate fee with your renewal. The cost depends on the type of plates you have.
Renewal Methods: Online, In-Person, or By Mail
There are three ways you can renew a Virginia vehicle registration: online, by mail, and in person. The recommended method is online because it's fast and easy. The Virginia DMV incentivizes drivers to renew online by offering a small discount.
To renew online, you'll need a copy of your vehicle registration renewal notice or your current registration card. The renewal notice comes in the mail approximately 90 days before your registration is set to expire. You may also receive email and text reminders if you have an eligible account with the DMV.
If you'd rather renew by mail, detach the bottom portion of your renewal notice and send it to the address provided. Also include the proper renewal fee, which should be listed on the letter you received.
An in-person car registration renewal in Virginia is a bit of a hassle. Aside from driving to the DMV and waiting to speak to a representative, you'll need to fill out the Vehicle Registration Application (Form VSA 14). You may be asked for proof of insurance and current address.
Keep a copy of the digital registration card receipt after renewing your registration. Your new card should come in the mail within 15 business days.
Virginia DMV Car Registration Renewal Timelines and Late Fees
Virginia tries its best to alert vehicle owners when their registration is due to expire. You'll receive a written notice 90 days beforehand, and you may get an email or text message, too. There is no grace period for registration renewal — once the day passes, you'll owe a late fee on top of the renewal costs. The late fee is $10.
Updating Personal or Vehicle Information During Renewal
If there are any changes to your name, address, or contact details, make sure to update them when you renew the registration. The Virginia DMV allows you to update your address and contact information online. But you may need to visit the DMV if you need to update the name on the registration.
Complete Your Renewal Now and Compare Car Insurance Quotes Today!
Virginia makes it easy to renew your registration online or by mail. You can expect a few reminders as the renewal date gets closer — which is helpful for busy residents.
If your vehicle is on your mind, why not take a few extra minutes to shop around for an affordable Virginia car insurance policy? EverQuote can give you a free custom comparison from major insurers. Try it today!