Your Guide to the DC DMV: Services, Locations, and Online Resources
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If you're new to Washington, DC, there's a lot to take care of, including getting a new driver's license and updating your vehicle registration. The DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can help you take care of both those tasks, plus a few others. How does the DC DMV work, and what services does it offer? Get everything you need to know about the DMV in Washington, DC.
Introduction to DC DMV Services
Like all the states in the U.S., Washington, DC, runs its own DMV. While DC isn't a state (it's a federal district), its DMV oversees residents' vehicle registrations, driver's licenses, and parking permits. If you're unlucky enough to get a parking or driving infraction ticket on DC roads, you may pay the fine to the Washington, DC, DMV.
The DC DMV provides online and in-person services. As you might expect, taking care of business on the DC DMV website can save you time. However, you may need to visit a service center location for some tasks.
Key Services Offered by the DC DMV
The DMV in DC is your main point of contact for all vehicle-related driver services.
Drivers License Applications and Renewals
The DC DMV is where to go when you need to get a new driver's license or renew your existing one. It oversees the entire licensing process, from reviewing your application to issuing driving-related tests.
Vehicle Registration and Titling Procedures
If you buy a new car in DC or want to transfer a vehicle from somewhere outside the District, you need to register and title it with your DC address. The DMV has a set of procedures for vehicle registration and titling.
Ticket Payments and Dispute Processes
Did you get a parking ticket on a DC street? That's pretty common — especially if you're unfamiliar with DC parking rules or don't yet have a parking permit. You can pay the fine or request a DMV ticket adjudication at a nearby service center.
Emissions Inspections
DC requires vehicle owners to get an emissions inspection on personal and commercial vehicles. Brand-new cars come with a Certificate of Origin and get an automatic four-year reprieve on the inspection. Older and used cars need an inspection before registration.
The DMV provides two self-service kiosks you can take your vehicle to for an emissions inspection. But if it's your first time registering the vehicle, you should visit the official DC DMV Inspection Station for testing.
Online vs. In-Person DMV Services
If you'd rather skip a trip to the DC DMV in person, you may have alternatives. Many services are available online through the DMV's website:
- Driver's license online renewals
- Registration renewals
- Ticket payments
- Driving record retrieval
- Identification card renewals and replacements
Keep in mind that most first-time activities such as new licensing and registration can only be done at a local DC DMV service center. You can try to fit all your tasks into one trip so the DMV doesn't become your second home!
Preparing for a DMV Visit
Before setting off to your nearest DMV, find out what documents you need. The DMV's website offers a Document Verification Guide you can review to make sure you have the right materials to get a new license in person, register and title a vehicle, or obtain temporary tages.
Generally, expect to provide proof of identity and residency when getting a license. Titling and registering a vehicle may require proof of title, bill of sale, and insurance that meets the District's requirements.
The forms required for most DMV services are available online. You can fill them out and print them in advance to save yourself time and catch any missing details before you make the trip to a DMV facility.
Operating Hours and Service Locations
There are four main DMV offices in Washington, DC. They're open Tuesdays through Saturdays and closed on Sundays and Mondays. The hours are generally 8:15 AM to 4 PM, but you can double-check your local service center to confirm. DMV area Washington, DC, offices observe federal and local public holidays, so they're not open on those days.
Self-service emission testing kiosks are open 24/7, but the official inspection station follows a Tuesday through Saturday opening schedule.
Additional DMV Resources
The DC DMV's website provides all the information you need concerning driver's licensing, titling and registration, and other services:
- Document Verification Guide: Identifies paperwork and evidence you need for licensing, titling, and registering a vehicle
- Online Services: Lists all tasks you can complete online without visiting a local DMV center
- New Residents Guide: Provides information especially for incoming District residents
Once you have your registration or license from the DMV, you're not done yet. Before you drive a vehicle in DC, you need to insure it. EverQuote provides a free auto insurance comparison tool to compare rates between major DC insurers. It's fast and easy to use, and may save you money on your next policy. Get your free custom quotes today!