Virginia Vehicle Registration Renewal

Vehicle registration is a legal necessity that implies that all the fees or taxes levied on the car has been paid. The Vehicle registration is renewed every year in most states while some states provide longer period of time for the renewal. A notification is sent by the respective State’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to the vehicle owner via mail several days prior to the due date. In case the renewal notice hasn’t been received then contact your nearest DMV and get the process started.

Remember you are required to affix the new registration tag to your vehicle’s license plate and have the registration renewal receipt before the penalty and enforcement date printed on your renewal notice. It is the responsibility of the motorist to make sure that the registration is current else you can be fined or jailed for the offense.

Virginia Vehicle Registration Renewal can be done in person, by mail or over the phone. You are required to make sure you receive the renewal notice. As soon as you do, calculate your registration fees. It varies according to the weight and type of your vehicle. Also, there are some states that base the renewal fees on the estimated value of the vehicle. However, Virginia does not. Make sure you have your renewal card and smog check, if applicable. Smog check is the measure of the amount of pollutants the vehicle emits. Smog check is required unless your vehicle is a hybrid, gasoline power 1975 year model or older, electric, diesel powered 1997 year model or older, motorcycle, trailer, natural gas powered with a GVWR rating of more than 14,000 lbs. This information would help you know if you qualify for an exemption of a smog check. Along with this you should know your title number and Vehicle Identification number (VIN).

This process takes 5 to 15 days so be proactive and get started as early as possible. You can start the process a month earlier or within 75 days of the expiry of your current registration of the vehicle. Remember, timely renewal of your vehicle registration can save you from a lot of unwanted penalties in the future.