How to Renew Your Vehicle Registration in Virginia

1. How to Process Car Registration Renewals Online

Vehicle registrations need to be renewed regularly. Many states require vehicle owners to renew their registrations every year, although some states offer the option to purchase registrations that last for two years or longer. Most states allow you to quickly renew your car registration online, but you should be aware of the information you will need to provide, the necessary fees and the acceptable methods of payment to ensure a smooth transaction. Our guide can help you learn how to prepare all the required documents and understand the fees so that you can renew your vehicle registration as smoothly and quickly as possible. In it, you can also learn about other practical processes, like replacing a lost registration and to updating your name or address with the DMV.

2. By Mail

Some owners may prefer to renew their auto registrations through the mail. Certain states allow residents to apply by mail, but owners may need to meet certain eligibility requirements to submit their request. Additionally, the ways in which you can pay your renewal fee are limited to check or money order, and you may experience processing delays due to the time it takes the postal service to deliver your application. Furthermore, you may risk losing your application or registration tags in the mail, adding to the wait time.

3. In Person at a DMV Office

Renewing your vehicle registration in person at a DMV office is an option if you cannot or prefer not to apply by mail or online. Typically, the DMV will issue your new registration credentials after receiving payment. However, certain states may require you to wait to receive your renewed registration documents in the mail. While visiting a DMV office in person may provide you with more personalized attention, it often involves long waits. Additionally, the office hours of many DMV locations can interfere with your work schedule.

Virginia drivers can renew their car registration and receive updated decals online, by mail, or in person. Renewal alerts are sent via mail, email, or text to participants who sign up through the state’s online notification system. To avoid late fees, renewal applications must be submitted before the registration expires.

Renewing your registration online can help you avoid extra fees and may qualify you for a discount. In-person renewals are available at DMV offices, customer service centers, and mobile units. Some locations charge a processing fee. Keep reading for more details on each renewal method.

Requirements for Car Registration Renewal in Virginia

To renew your vehicle registration, certain criteria must be met. You must have a current address on file to renew online. If the address is outdated, you must update it first. Vehicles located in Northern Virginia may require an emissions test before renewal. Test results are automatically posted to the DMV system.

Renewals can be denied if you owe taxes, tolls, or parking tickets. These must be paid before your application can proceed.

Some residents may qualify for two- or three-year renewal options. Two-year renewals are only available if:

  • The vehicle weighs less than 55,000 pounds
  • The vehicle is not part of the International Registration Plan
  • The uninsured motor vehicle fee has not been paid
  • The vehicle is not located in an emissions zone

Three-year renewals require the same criteria, plus:
The vehicle cannot be registered for the first time, renewed by mail, or garaged in Arlington, Fairfax City, Loudoun, Prince William, Stafford, Alexandria, Fairfax County, Falls Church, Manassas, or Manassas Park.

What do you need to renew your car registration in Virginia?

Although a renewal notice isn’t required, it can speed up the process. You may also need your vehicle’s license plate number, VIN, or current registration card for reference.

Accepted payment methods vary. Online renewals accept credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers. In-person options may differ by location.

Virginia Vehicle Registration Renewal Notice

Some residents may receive a renewal notice by mail. You can also opt in to receive email or text message alerts from the DMV.

Electronic notifications are not available for leased vehicle registrations.

Virginia Car Registration Renewal Notice Lost or Not Received

You do not need a renewal notice to complete the process. If yours is lost or not received, you can still renew without delay.

Virginia Car Registration Renewal Options

Residents can renew registration online, by mail, or in person. Fees and steps may differ depending on the method used. Submit your renewal before it expires to avoid a late fee.

If you’re renewing within 15 days of your expiration date, carry your confirmation receipt when driving. New decals typically arrive within five business days. The receipt grants a 15-day extension in case of mail delays.

How to Renew Your Car Registration Online

You can renew online before the expiration date or up to 90 days after it has passed. Here’s how:

  1. Go to the online portal and log in, or enter your title number and last four digits of your VIN.
  2. Follow the instructions and pay the renewal fees. Online renewals receive a $1 discount.
  3. Print and keep the confirmation receipt in your vehicle.

How to Renew Your Car Registration by Mail

To renew by mail, you must have your renewal notice. Follow these steps:

  1. Fill out the renewal notice form
  2. Include your payment — no cash
  3. Mail all materials to:

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Attn: Renewal Center
P.O. Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269-0001

Decals usually arrive within five business days, but allow up to 15 days for your new registration to be delivered.

Where to Renew Car Registration Decals in Person

You can renew at a DMV office, customer service center, or mobile office. Note: third-party fees may apply at some locations. Here’s what to do:

  1. Bring your renewal notice, if you have it
  2. Show your current registration card
  3. Pay the applicable fees

Military & Out of State Vehicle Registration Renewal in Virginia

If you’re in the military or a federal employee returning to Virginia after being out of state, you’re eligible for a 90-day renewal grace period. This also applies to spouses and dependents.

To renew after returning:

  1. Visit a DMV office
  2. Show your current registration card
  3. Provide documents proving eligibility (military orders, diplomatic papers, travel documents, etc.)
  4. If you’re a diplomat or civilian employee, also provide one of the following IDs:
    1. A U.S. passport or ID showing diplomatic status
    2. A diplomatic ID card
    3. A U.S. military civilian or government employee ID
    4. A military ID or DoD contractor card
  5. Pay the renewal fees

Virginia Vehicle Registration Renewal Fees

Renewal fees are based on your vehicle’s weight and the length of the renewal period. Discounts apply: $2 off for two-year renewals and $3 off for three-year renewals. Online renewals receive an additional $1 discount.

  • Cars and pickups (4,000 lbs. or less): $30.75
  • Cars and pickups (4,001–6,500 lbs.): $35.75
  • Pickups (6,501–10,000 lbs.): $44.75
  • Late renewal fee: $10

If your vehicle requires an emissions test, a $2 emissions fee may be added. This applies in the following counties: Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and Stafford. It also applies in the cities of:

  • Alexandria
  • Fairfax
  • Falls Church
  • Manassas
  • Manassas Park

Virginia Vehicle Registration Renewal Forms

Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.

Last updated on Thursday, June 12 2025.