Your Guide to the Virginia DMV: Services, Locations, and Online Tools
Why You Can Trust EverQuote
EverQuote powers millions of shopper requests every month, teaming up with industry-leading insurance specialists to address real-world challenges faced by people every day. We partner with the largest insurance providers in the nation, and our content is carefully crafted by experts and reviewed by licensed insurance agents for accuracy and relevance.
As a Virginia resident, you’ll visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) several times throughout your life. The Virginia DMV supports nearly every facet of driving, from licensing and vehicle registration to online tools and appointments. Gaining as much knowledge as possible about the Virginia DMV can simplify each visit or transaction.
Below, we outline all the main details about the Virginia DMV you’ll need to know to help simplify your visits.
Key Services Offered by the Virginia DMV
The Virginia DMV provides a wide range of essential services. Some more common ones include:
- Driver’s licenses and permits
- Online Virginia driver's handbook
- DMV tests for a Virginia driver’s license
- New licenses and permits
- Renewals and replacements
- Driver improvement courses
- Virginia DMV practice test
- Vehicle registration and title services
- Motor vehicle registration
- Registration renewals
- Motor vehicle titling
- License plates and Virginia special licenses
- ID cards
- Standard and federally compliant Real ID cards
- Commercial and motor carrier services
- CDL testing and renewals
- Hauling permits
- Overload permits
How to Access Virginia DMV Online Services
The DMV in Virginia offers a wide range of services online, including:
- Vehicle registration renewal
- Title replacement
- Driver’s license and CDL renewal or replacement
- Auto insurance verification
- Plate deactivation
- Disabled parking placards
- Special license plates
This is a small snippet of the dozens of services offered via the DMV’s online services portal.
Finding a Virginia DMV Service Location Near You
You cannot perform all services via the Virginia DMV’s online portal. Some require your presence at a local DMV office. You can find these DMV customer service centers using the DMV’s online location finder.
Here, you’ll find the address and hours of operation for all nearby DMV offices. If you click “Location Information,” you’ll also see what services that location offers, the current wait times, and an online appointment scheduler.
Tips for Reducing Wait Times at the Virginia DMV
DMVs can get quite busy, leading to long lines and wait times. Some tips to minimize your wait time include:
- Using online services when possible
- Viewing live wait times to find a less busy time
- Scheduling an appointment online
- Have all your documents ready and well-organized
- Researching all requirements for the service you need
Costs and Fees for Virginia DMV Services
The Virginia DMV offers a wide range of services and has a long list of fees. Some common DMV fees you may encounter include:
- Driver’s license fee: $4 per year of validity
- Real ID fee: $10 (one-time fee)
- Motorcycle license fee: $2 per year of validity
- Virginia state ID: $2 per year of validity
- Trailer registration: $18 to $30.75
- Title fee: $15
- Personal vehicle registration: $30.75 to $44.75
- Vehicle or driving record: $8 to $9
- Police crash report: $8
This is not an exhaustive list of all the Virginia DMV fees. To see the full list, check out the DMV Fee menu.
Common Questions About Virginia DMV Services
Heading to the DMV often inspires questions about the office's services, processes, requirements, and more. Below are some common questions people have about going to the DMV.
- How do I update my personal information, such as my name or address?
- Address Changes: The DMV can store up to three addresses—residential mailing and vehicle registration—and you can change any of these addresses online.
- Name Changes: You must perform this process in person at a local DMV office, but you can start at home by completing the Driver's License and Identification Card Application. You’ll need to bring evidence of the name change, license, permit or ID card, and email confirmation you receive after completing the online application.
- How to perform an out-of-state vehicle registration transfer
- If you recently moved to Virginia, visit the DMV with your out-of-state title, proof of insurance, proof of address, and ID to transfer the title and registration to Virginia.
- If you purchased the vehicle in the last 12 months, you’ll also need proof of purchase and a vehicle price certification signed by the seller or the purchaser.
- Lost or Stolen Driver’s License or Title
- Driver’s License: You can often request a replacement license online, but some require an in-person visit to the DMV.
- Title: In many cases, you can request a duplicate title online. However, if you prefer to do it in person or if it’s a complex situation that requires an in-person request, simply complete an Application for Transfer and Supplemental Liens (VSA 66) or an Application for Replacement and Substitute Titles (VSA 67) and any other required documents to the local Virginia DMV.
Helpful Resources for Virginia DMV Users
- Virginia DMV website: The Virginia DMV website includes forms, fee schedules, online services, and office locators.
- Online services portal: Register for a MyDMV account and access numerous online services, such as driver’s license renewal.
- Customer Support Line: Call the DMV’s helpline at (804) 497-7100 to address more complex questions or concerns.
Save on Car Insurance for a Smooth Driving Experience
In Virginia, drivers must carry a minimum level of auto insurance or pay the Uninsured Motor Vehicle (UMV) fee. EverQuote can help you meet this minimum and save you money by allowing you to compare multiple auto insurance quotes at once.