If you have a lost car registration in Virginia, you must request a duplicate credential to have inside the vehicle at all times. Obtaining a copy of a vehicle registration is very important because it shows that you have maintained the proper car insurance policy and paid any due taxes on the vehicle. If you choose to drive without this certificate, you may be subject to traffic fines and tickets.

You can replace a car registration in VA through the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). There are a few different replacement procedures in place for applicants to choose from, making it important for vehicle owners to understand the varying steps in each process. Read the sections below to learn more about replacing a registration in the state.

When do you need to get a copy of your vehicle registration in Virginia?

Failing to replace a Virginia DMV lost registration can result in fines and other related consequences. Thus, you must request a duplicate credential if your current registration certificate is:

• Rendered ineligible.
• Lost.
• Stolen.
• Damaged.
• Destroyed.

In addition, you may need to obtain a VA DMV copy of registration if you are planning on selling your vehicle, asked to provide it as part of a criminal investigation or moving away and registering your car in a new state.

How to Obtain a Replacement Vehicle Registration in Virginia

A DMV registration replacement in Virginia can only occur if you follow all of the proper procedures set in place. The pieces of information that you will be required to submit include:

• Your contact information, such as your name, mailing address, email address and phone number.
• Your vehicle information, such as its make, model, year and mileage.
• Your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number and state-issued drivers license number.

This information, along with the appropriate registration form and fee, will allow Virginia applicants to obtain a duplicate vehicle registration through the method of their choice.

How to Replace a Vehicle Registration Online

You may apply for a copy of a vehicle registration online in Virginia by utilizing the DMV’s online portal and inputting the information listed in the previous section. This process will require you to create an online account and follow the applicable prompts on the screen.

In addition, this procedure will allow you to print your registration if you desire, which is the fastest method of acquiring this replacement document. Otherwise, you may choose to have your duplicate car registration sent through the mail.

How to Replace a Vehicle Registration in Person

In order to get a replacement vehicle registration in Virginia, you may also file your request in person through one of the many Virginia DMV offices or self-service centers in the state. Many applicants opt to get a copy of a car registration in person due to the fact that it allows them to ask questions from a customer service representative and get a new document issued on the spot.

Virginia Stolen Car Registration Requirements

Vehicle owners may be subject to certain consequences if they have a stolen car registration in Virginia. In general, registration certificates contain several pieces of personal information about the owner of that vehicle.

Therefore, these credentials are popular targets for identity thieves, who wish to use them to gain your passwords and financial information. If you have lost car registration papers that you think might have been stolen, you should contact local law enforcement and file a report.

Virginia DMV Sticker Replacement

Obtaining a Virginia DMV sticker replacement is part of the process of requesting a duplicate registration, as you will receive a sticker decal to go along with your registration document. This decal can be placed on your windshield or license plate area, and provides additional notice to law enforcement that your vehicle is properly registered and updated with its insurance.

Upon completing one of the replacement methods listed above, you will receive a new sticker as well. However, you may also apply for a new sticker separately if you do not need a replacement registration card.

Virginia Vehicle Registration Replacement Fees

Your VA DMV duplicate registration will also require the payment of different fees, which vary depending on the type of vehicle that you are registering. While there are many different kinds of registration replacement fees listed by the Virginia DMV, the most important ones include:

• The basic $2 replacement registration card fee.
• The $1 replacement decal fee.
• The $2 fee to transfer a registration between vehicles.

Generally, these VA vehicle registration replacement fees can be paid with a check, money order or credit card.

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