Registering a new car is a step process.  Most important is to obtain car insurance.  Yo must have the minimum amount of insurance or pay the $500 for uninsured motorist fee each year.   The proof of insurance must be shown to register your vehicle. 

Get an emissions inspection.  Certain areas of Virginia require your vehicle to pass an emissions inspection every two years.  Exemptions to the the inspection include:

• New vehicles being titled for the first time in VA with a manufacturer’s certificate of origin
• Gasoline-powered vehicles 25 years or older, whether registered as an antique or not.
• Diesel Vehicles
• Vehicles exclusively powered by clean fuel.
• Certain hybrid vehicles.

An emission inspection must be done before you register your vehicle.  When your vehicle registration renewal notice comes in the mail it will prompt you that a smog check is required. 

Complete a vehicle registration Application and pay any fees that are associated with your vehicle.  The fee is determined by the type of license plate you purchase, the weight of the vehicle and whether you register for one or two years.  You then will be given your license plates, decals and registration card.  Carry the the registration card with you whenever you drive. 

To Renew your registration it must be done before your registration expires.  Renewals can be done at the DMV office, by phone, by mail or online. 

If you are active-duty military who is stationed in Virginia, you may drive with valid licenses from out of state or from your home country.  

If you are active-duty military and live in VA and cannot visit a DMV service center before your registration expires you-may submit an application for registration and the appropriate fee to the address below:

Titles and Registration

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles

P.O. Box 27412

Richmond, VA  23269

or simply renew by phone or online with a major credit card.