TRANSPORTATION / MOTOR VEHICLE INFORMATION
Drivers License
Within 30 days of establishing state residency, newcomers must obtain a Virginia driver’s license. You must be at least 16 years of age to apply for a full-privilege driver’s license, although those who are 15 years of age and older can apply for a Virginia’s learner’s permit. Necessary documentation includes two forms of acceptable identification, social security number, proof of Virginia residency, legal birth certificate if applicable, and your out-of-state drivers license. All applicants must pass a vision test and all first-time applicants must pass a road test. The road and safety exams may be waived for those with a previous license in good standing. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles lists all licensing service centers and DMV select locations (vehicle services) online with location, hours, and current wait times. For details on fees, testing centers, or answers to specific questions, contact:
Department of Motor Vehicles
866-DMVLINE
800-435-5137
www.dmvnow.com
Vehicle Registration & Title
To title a vehicle in Virginia, complete an application and bring statement of origin for new vehicles or the vehicle title. Your name must appear on an out-of-state title as the owner unless the previous owner has assigned the title to you. Also required is your out-of-state registration and proof of your Social Security number. Registration of your vehicle can be completed at any DMV Select service center. DMV will issue two license plates, decals showing the expiration date, and a registration card. Place the decals on the plates and install the plates on the front and rear of your vehicle. Keep the registration card in your vehicle at all times. For details on fees, testing centers, or answers to specific questions, contact:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
866-DMVLINE
800-435-5137
www.dmvnow.com
Virginia Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Program
Vehicle safety inspections are required annually in Virginia and are available at more than 4,000 inspection stations across the Commonwealth. New-car dealers and many auto garages participate; look for the white sign with blue lettering that indicates an official inspection station. For additional information on inspections or if you have problems location a station, contact the Roanoke-Salem district office:
Virginia State Police
Roanoke-Salem District
540-387-5437
www.vsp.state.va.us/safety.htm
Mandatory Insurance
Registration of a vehicle includes proof of minimum insurance coverage with a carrier authorized to do business in Virginia, or payment of the uninsured motor vehicle fee (UMV). The UMV fee of $500, paid to the Department of Motor Vehicles, does not provide any insurance but allows you to drive an uninsured vehicle at your own risk. It expires with your registration and must be paid at renewal. For more information, contact:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
866-DMVLINE
800-435-5137
www.dmvnow.com
Virginia Safety Laws
All front-seat occupants of the vehicle who are over 16 years old must wear a safety belt system at all times in a moving vehicle. Children who are five years old or younger must be secured in a federally approved child safety seat. Children between the ages of six and sixteen must be secured in a safety belt system, regardless of where they are sitting in the vehicle. These child protection laws are primary and enforceable without any other violation. For more information on auto safety, contact:
Virginia Department of Health
Division of Injury & Violence Protection
Richmond 804-864-7732
www.vahealth.org/civp
