Washington DC law requires that motor vehicle owners must register their vehicle with the Washington DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before taking it on the road. Both new and second-hand vehicles must be registered, regardless of whether they are purchased from a dealer or an individual. In addition, new Washington DC residents who have registered their vehicle in another state must register their vehicle in Washington DC. The initial vehicle registration must be done in person but registration renewals can be done on-line, by mail or in person.

INITIAL REGISTRATION

If you are registering a motor vehicle in Washington DC for the first time, you must complete the following steps:

1. All vehicles in Washington DC must be insured.
2. Collect the necessary paperwork. If you bought your vehicle from a dealer, then the dealer will have sent the necessary paperwork to the Washington DC Department of Motor Vehicles. In all other circumstances you will need to collect the following additional papers:
3. Vehicle title. Make sure that the title document includes both the odometer reading and purchase price of the vehicle
4. An inspection sticker that shows that your vehicle has passed a vehicle safety and emission control test
5. Your driver's license or State issued ID card as proof of your identity.
6. Visit your local DMV office, and bring the completed forms with you.
7. Pay the registration fee and collect your registration plates and stickers. These are normally available on the spot, unless you have requested personalized plates.
8. Place your registration stickers in the appropriate spot on your plates.
9. You may be entitled to a tax deduction if you paid sales tax on your vehicle.

REGISTRATION FEES

When registering your vehicle at the DMV office, you will be required to pay certain fees, typically as follows:

1. The here, which varies depending on various factors, including your vehicle's weight and type of license plate you require.
2. Title application fee.

Your first time registration fee will also include inspection fees and sales tax. There may be additional fees when you register. Contact your local DMV office to know the exact amount.

RENEWING YOUR VEHICLE REGISTRATION

Owners of motor vehicles in Washington DC are required to renew their vehicle registration annually, and can do so in person, online or by mail. See our Registration Renewal section for complete details.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• The process for registering a motorcycle is generally the same as a car registration. However, there are different procedures for boat registration and custom car registration.
• You must have paid all outstanding traffic tickets, dishonored check fees and child support payments before you can register your motor vehicle.
• Auto Insurance is needed to legally operate all vehicles in Washington DC.
• See also Renewing Your Vehicle Registration.
• See also Title Transfers and Car Insurance.