Do you need a Virginia license to register your car in Virginia?

Asked by: Dock Connelly MD  |  Last update: December 18, 2023
Score: 4.9/5 (65 votes)

You'll need your Virginia driver's license (if you're a new resident, you'll need to apply for a VA license within 60 days of your move)

Can I register a car in Virginia from out of state?

For out-of-state vehicles or trailers

You will only receive a Virginia registration card and must submit the out-of-state title to us to receive a Virginia title.

What is needed to register a car in Virginia?

To register a car with the Virginia DMV, go to the local office and provide a proof of ownership document, proof of identity and residency, inspection certificate, proof of insurance, and payment for the registration fees.

What do I need to register my car in Virginia from another person?

Fill in the vehicle buyer and seller information on the vehicle title, including the vehicle's sales price. Present the vehicle title, proof of address, and other relevant documents to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VA DMV) Pay the vehicle title transfer fee and sales tax.

Can I register my car in Virginia if I dont live there?

Generally, your vehicle must be registered in the state where you live. That's determined by any one of the following: Your primary residence or where you live most of the time. The address on your driver's license.

A Comprehensive Guide to Registering a Car in Virginia

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How much does it cost to register an out of state vehicle in Virginia?

There are various registration fees you must pay when registering a car in Virginia including: A $15 titling fee. A fee sales and use tax starting at $75 and up, based on the car's sale price. A Virginia registration fee between $30.75 to $35.75 for passenger vehicles.

What happens if you don't register your car in Virginia?

Driving without registration in Virginia can lead to fines and court costs. However, you may have legal options that can help mitigate the repercussions of a driving without valid registration citation. It is important to always carry the vehicle's registration while driving.

Do you need a license to register a car in your name in Virginia?

You do not need a Virginia driver's license to title or register your car, however, you must obtain one within 60 days of registering a car in Virginia.

Do you have to have both license plates on your car in Virginia?

License plates assigned to a motor vehicle, other than a moped, motorcycle, autocycle, tractor truck, trailer, or semitrailer, or to persons licensed as motor vehicle dealers or transporters of unladen vehicles, shall be attached to the front and the rear of the vehicle.

How do I change my residency to Virginia?

Two forms of proof for Virginia residency such as a signed lease, mortgage statement or deed. One form of proof of legal presence. Legal presence means that you must be a U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident or otherwise legally authorized to be in the United States through an eligible immigration status.

How do I prove residency in Virginia?

Proving Your Virginia Residency

You must visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) customer service center and present documentation to prove your Virginia residency such as a utility bill, lease agreement, payroll check stub or original bank statement.

Do you need state inspection to get registration in Virginia?

Following is a list of actions that must be completed prior to registering your vehicle as a new Virginia resident: Get auto insurance coverage from a licensed Virginia carrier, or pay the uninsured motorist fee. Pass a vehicle safety inspection and a smog and emissions check.

How much is a Virginia license plate?

$40.75 for new license plates – vehicles under 4,000 lbs. $45.75 for new license plates – vehicles over 4,000 lbs. $15 for a title.

What does a VA car inspection consist of?

The basic Virginia state inspection involves testing the operation of: The driver's seat; airbags, seat belts, and doors. Brakes and parking brake. Headlights and exterior lights, including turn signals and the license plate light.

How do I transfer license plates in Virginia?

How To Transfer Plates. Complete a License Plate Application (VSA-10) and visit a customer service center to complete the transfer transaction.

How do I transfer a car title in Virginia?

What You'll Need to Do to Transfer your Vehicle Title in Virginia
  1. Visit the DMV near your area. Consider making a DMV appointment or getting a line waiting concierge.
  2. Submit the documents.
  3. Pay the fees.
  4. Record the odometer reading.
  5. Select electronic or paper title.

How often do you have to have your car safety inspected in Virginia?

Before operating a vehicle in Virginia, it must pass an annual safety inspection and display a valid safety inspection sticker. This helps catch any issues before they can cause harm. Safety inspections are performed at most repair shops in the state.

What does a yellow Virginia license plate mean?

Virginia's “Don't Tread On Me” license plate – yellow and bearing the popular rallying cry for limited government – is quickly climbing the ranks of special tags in the state.

What can cops pull you over for in Virginia?

In order for a police officer to pull you over, they must have reasonable suspicion that you committed a traffic violation or broke a law. This may include, but is not limited to: Running a red traffic light. Failing to stop at a stop sign.

Can I go to any DMV in Virginia to register my car?

You may register your vehicle at any DMV customer service center. DMV will issue you two license plates, decals showing the expiration date and a registration card.

Do you need insurance to register a car in Virginia?

Yes, Virginia requires you to have liability insurance to register your car. We can quote you with several carriers at The Zebra. You can also give us a call at 888-807-3823.

Do I need a new license when I move within Virginia?

If You're Moving Within Virginia

You have 30 days after your move to update your Virginia driver's license with your new address when moving within the state (and no, changing your address with the post office doesn't cut it).

What is the grace period for car registration in Virginia?

, Virginia has a four-month grace period. Within four months of your tags' expiration date: Police cannot pull you over for expired tags alone—however, you'll face more severe consequences if you're pulled over for a different traffic offense and also found to be driving with expired registration.

How many days do you have to register a car in Virginia?

To register your vehicle in Virginia and obtain license plates, you must first title your vehicle within 30 days of moving to Virginia. the period of time, one or two years, you choose to register your vehicle. A two-year registration costs twice the annual fee and provides added convenience for our customers.

What happens if you get pulled over without registration Virginia?

You can get pulled over for expired, missing, or non-visible registration tags on your car or motorcycle by a police officer only after the four-month grace period. You will be fined based on the non-moving violation act by a police officer.