How to Complete Your Virginia Car Registration: A Step-by-Step Guide
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If you're a driver in the state of Virginia, or will be moving there soon, it's important to understand how to register a vehicle in Virginia. Car registration in Virginia is a fairly straightforward process that all drivers should know how to handle. Here, we break down the requirements, steps, and fees involved in the Virginia vehicle registration process so you can feel confident about registering a new vehicle or renewing your registration to ensure compliance with Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations.
Understanding Virginia Car Registration Requirements
Most vehicles owned by Virginia residents must be registered in the state. Registration proves that you're legally allowed to drive a vehicle, and you must register if you've purchased from a dealer or private seller, or moved into Virginia from another state. Vehicle registration is good for one year.
When you register your vehicle, you'll get front and back license plates, decals displaying the registration's expiration date, and a registration card. Vehicles that must be registered in Virginia include:
- Vehicles owned solely or jointly by a Virginia resident.
- Vehicles owned by a new resident within 30 days of becoming a resident.
- Vehicles owned jointly by a military member and a civilian.
- Vehicles purchased or moved into Fairfax County within 60 days of relocation.
- Vehicles purchased or moved into Loudoun County within 60 days of relocation.
Gathering the Necessary Documents
To successfully register a car, vehicle owners must have the following documentation:
- Proof of ownership, such as a title, with the "Certification of Buyer" and "Application of Registration" sections completed for used vehicles.
- A completed Application for Registration (VSA 14).
- A completed emissions inspection if your vehicle is garaged in the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, or Stafford, or in the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, or Manassas Park.
- Proof of insurance that meets the state's vehicle insurance requirements.
- Proof of passing an official motor vehicle inspection.
If you need to complete a Virginia application for title or Virginia title transfer, you should do so before attempting to register your vehicle.
Exploring Vehicle Inspection Requirements
To get a valid state vehicle registration, your car must pass a safety inspection, as well as an emissions test if it's garaged in any of the counties listed above. Most cars pass the safety inspection on their first attempt, but the inspection checklist is nonetheless extensive. Check it out on the Virginia State Police website and make sure to address any issues that may cause your vehicle to fail inspection before registering or renewing registration.
Calculating Registration Fees and Taxes
Vehicle registration fees in Virginia vary depending on the type of vehicle and the services required. You can see the entire DMV fees list here, but a few highlights include:
- Passenger vehicle registration (and renewal) fee: $30.75
- Registration replacement fee: $2
- Title fee: $15
In addition to registration fees, Virginia also assesses a vehicle sales and use tax that's equal to 4.15% of the sales price with a minimum charge of $75. After the purchase of a vehicle, make sure to get a personal property tax receipt to know the tax you owe.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Car
Provided you've met all the registration requirements and have the proper documentation, registering your vehicle is simple:
- Complete the Application for Registration, including the "Insurance Certification" section.
- Pay the registration fee.
That's it. You can submit these items in person at any DMV customer service center, DMV Select location, or mobile office, or by mail. Remember, you must register a new car within 30 days of purchase.
Renewing Your Virginia Car Registration
Virginia car registration renewal is an even faster process. After your first registration, the DMV sends renewal reminders by mail, email, or text message 30 days before your registration's expiration date. You can renew on the DMV website, in person, or by mail.
Your registration renewal fee is determined by the type of vehicle and its empty weight or gross weight, but for most passenger vehicles, it's the same $30.75 fee. (You get a $1 discount for renewing online.)
Helpful Links and DMV Resources
Make sure that the DMV has your correct address, or opt into email or text alerts to ensure that you don't miss a registration renewal date. For more information about the Virginia car registration process, check out the Virginia DMV website.
Get Better Rates With Car Insurance in Virginia
Vehicle registration in Virginia is a straightforward process. But remember, it's vital to have adequate Virginia car insurance that meets mandatory minimums and gives you and your vehicle the protection you need. Use EverQuote's comparison tool to shop insurance rates and coverages to find the best available options for you.