All vehicles that are garaged, stored or parked in Winchester will need to be registered.
Moving to Virginia:
Step 1: Obtain VA auto insurance. If insurance is not an option, pay an uninsured motor vehicles fee. This fee does not provide insurance coverage but does allow you to register and operate your vehicle in Virginia for one year.
Step 2: Have the vehicle(s) inspected immediately (there is no grace period).
Step 3: Go to VA DMV to apply for a VA Driver's License, title your vehicle in VA, register your vehicle, and acquire license plates (within 30 days). You can also register to vote at the DMV.
Step 4: Register with the City of Winchester Commissioner of the Revenue, Rouss City Hall, 15 North Cameron Street, Main Floor (within 45 days or penalty fees will apply).
Moving within Virginia:
Step 1: Notify the DMV of your address change (within 30 days).
Step 2: Register with the City of Winchester Commissioner of the Revenue, Rouss City Hall, 15 North Cameron Street, Main Floor (within 45 days).
Vehicle Inspection:
Before operating a vehicle in Virginia, it must pass an annual safety inspection and display a valid safety inspection sticker. Your vehicle(s) must be inspected every 12 months by a certified inspector. If your vehicle does not pass inspection, your vehicle will receive a rejection sticker. You will have 15 days, in addition to the day of inspection, to repair the problems found by the inspector and have the vehicle inspected again. An inspection fee will be charged by the inspector.
To find safety inspection stations, contact VA State Police at (804) 674-6774 or visit www.vsp.virginia.gov.
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles:
Need Garage Parking?:
If you live in downtown Winchester and would like to rent a parking space at one of Old Town Winchester's four garages, click here for rates and more information.