How to Complete Your Car Registration in Washington, DC: A Comprehensive Guide
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Are you planning a move to Washington, D.C.? If so, you'll need to register your vehicle. The District's laws require new residents to register vehicles within 60 days of arrival. The process includes several steps, so knowing what to expect ahead of time can prevent logistical problems when visiting the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Overview of the Registration Process
Before you can register your vehicle, you need a Washington, D.C. driver's license. You can't use an out-of-state license for registration purposes. Since the license application process takes time, plan to take care of it soon after your arrival. You should receive your new Washington, D.C. license within ten days after submitting a successful application.
Other documents needed to complete car registration in D.C. include:
- A completed Certificate of Title/Temporary Registration and Tag Application
- Proof of valid car insurance that meets Washington, D.C. requirements
- A copy of the vehicle's title that lists you as an owner
Cars must pass a Washington, D.C. inspection before registration. If this is the first time registering your vehicle in D.C., you must take it to the DMV's Inspection Station. The DMV Inspection Station operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It's open Tuesday through Saturday. Passenger vehicles require a vehicle safety check and an emissions inspection.
The DMV charges a D.C. car registration fee, which depends on the vehicle's weight range and whether it's electric or gas-powered.
After completing registration, you'll receive finalized documents and license plates in the mail.
Role of the DMV in Vehicle Registration
The DMV service center requires residents to title their vehicles within the District during registration. If vehicle titling is in another state, you must transfer it to D.C.
If you own the vehicle outright, it's a simple matter of completing the Certificate of Title/Temporary and Tag Application and presenting your current title.
Vehicles under a lien in another state require authorization from the lienholder before title transfer. You can obtain approval by submitting a notice to the lienholder. The DMV provides a form you can share with your creditor.
Importance of Maintaining Valid Registration
Driving without proper registration in Washington, D.C., is a crime. If caught without proof of registration by a police officer, you may receive a ticket. Fines range from $200 to $2,400, depending on how long you've been without proper registration.
Types of Vehicle Ownership
The registration process varies slightly depending on ownership status.
Private Ownership
D.C. vehicle registration is straightforward if you own your car outright. You'll provide the DMV with a copy of the vehicle's title listing you as the owner. Include the title along with the registration forms during your DMV visit.
Leased or Financed Vehicles
Vehicles under a lease or financing agreement require approval from the lessor or lien holder before you can title the car in Washington, D.C. Send the lessor or lien holder the DMV's official notice form to expedite the process. Your lienholder can complete the form and return it to the DMV so you can finish registering the vehicle.
If your financed or leased vehicle has unexpired out-of-state license plates, you can request a set of temporary tags for the vehicle's inspection.
Registration of a New or Used Vehicle
The registration process for new and used vehicles is pretty much the same. You'll need the following documents:
- Current Washington, D.C. driver's license
- Proof of ownership (usually the vehicle's title)
- Application for Certificate of Title
- Proof of adequate insurance
Used vehicles require an inspection at the DMV's Inspection Center. However, brand-new cars don't need to undergo an inspection.
Vehicle Registration Renewals
Once you officially register your vehicle in Washington, D.C., you must renew it annually. The D.C. DMV sends a reminder letter via email or written notice 60 days before your registration expiration date. You may be eligible to renew your registration online for a passenger vehicle with a current inspection.
If you owe any outstanding debts to Washington, D.C., including unpaid tickets, dishonored check fees, or unpaid child support, you must repay them. Otherwise, the DMV may deny your registration renewal.
Washington, D.C., also provides registration renewals via mail. If you choose the mail-in registration office, follow the directions on your registration renewal notice and submit the required fee by check or money order.
If you've lost the DMV's renewal notice or never received one, you can still renew by mail. Send the DMV evidence of the following:
- Your D.C. license tag number
- Copy of Washington, D.C. driver's license
- Statement asking to renew your registration
- Check or money order for the registration renewal fee
List your vehicle's license tag number on your check or money order so the DMV can attribute payment to your account.
Get Your Car Registered and Insured: Start the D.C. Registration Process Today!
Getting your car registered correctly in Washington, D.C., means you won't need to worry about an expensive ticket. While initial registration takes some time, follow-up renewals are much easier, and you can complete them online or through the mail without a visit to the DMV.
The D.C. district requires adequate insurance coverage before registering a vehicle — and EverQuote can help you get it. Our complimentary insurance comparison service can help you find coverage that meets your needs at an affordable rate. To explore your insurance options, sign up with EverQuote today.