Friday, April 18, 2008

Virginia keeps things simple for military drivers

It’s no surprise that the Department of Motor Vehicles has throngs of customers each day. But, what may come as a shock is just how simple it is for military drivers to get established in Virginia - even with an out-of-state license.

If stationed in Virginia, members of the Armed Forces may drive their vehicles as long as they have a valid driver’s license from their home state. As an added bonus, the same applies to their spouse and any dependent children 16 or older, according to the Virginia DMV.

For vehicles with out-of-state plates, an individual must provide proof that they’re the sole owner of the automobile. However, if the vehicle is co-owned, all owners must then be active-duty members of the Armed Forces or they will have to register the vehicle in Virginia. And even that has flexibility.

“Based on Virginia guidelines, an active-duty member doesn’t need a Virginia driver’s license when registering a vehicle,” said Courtney Hobson, a help desk manager at the state’s Woodbridge office.

Hobson said individuals needing a title can also apply for one at the same time they register the vehicle; there is no need to fill out a separate application form.
“All one needs is the title from their previous state of residence and their current out-of-state registration card.” she said.

According to Hobson, registration fees are determined by the type of license plate you purchase, the gross weight of the vehicle and whether you register for one or two years. 
Once all is in order, the DMV will give out license plates, in addition to decals showing the registration expiration and a registration card.

For those looking to obtain a Virginia driver’s license for the first time, or to renew one, Hobson mentioned the following reminders:

•Have valid insurance. If not already done, individuals must get insurance for their vehicle before registering it at any DMV location. Individuals are advised to have proof of insurance with them when registering their vehicle. 
•Have a current emissions inspection. To register the vehicle, an emissions certificate may be required if the vehicle is garaged in an emissions county or city. The inspection station will forward information to the DMV unless the vehicle fails inspection.
•Have a current safety inspection. Upon registering the vehicle, a safety inspection may be required. The Virginia State Police administers the safety program and can provide additional information.
For those registering vehicles at Fort Belvoir, drivers are required to visit the Visitors Processing Operations Center at Tulley Gate weekdays from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The center is also open Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to all active-duty members and DoD/Army contractors.
For more information, call the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles at 866-368-5463 or 800-435-5137. Additional material is available online at http://www.dmv.org.