If you own a reconstructed vehicle, specially constructed vehicle or replica vehicle (see definitions) you must get a certificate of title and registration for the vehicle before operating it on any highway. All liens held against the vehicle must be on the Virginia title.
How to Apply for Titling and Registration
Step 1: Complete and submit the following forms:
Note:
Reconstructed or specially constructed vehicles may have existing vehicle identification numbers (VINs) that are no longer appropriate for titling because the alterations effectively make them a different vehicle. In this situation, DMV will assign a new VIN.
Replica vehicles built on a manufactured chassis or a chassis from another vehicle will not have a VIN assigned by DMV because the Manufacturer's Certificate (or Statement) of Origin (MCO or MSO) will provide an acceptable VIN for the vehicle.
- A replica vehicle built on the chassis from another vehicle may use the VIN from the existing chassis, as long as the new vehicle is a replica of the vehicle from which the chassis came.
- DMV must assign a VIN to any replica vehicle that otherwise does not have one, or if the replica does not appear to be the vehicle from which the chassis came.
Any vehicle owner seeking a new VIN from DMV must prove ownership by submitting all titles or other ownership documents for any parts used in constructing the vehicle. Each type of vehicle has certain components that must be accounted for with a bill of sale, title, certificate of origin and/or a notarized affidavit. These documents must show the sale price and have identification numbers assigned to the applicant.
Any vehicle for which an application for a VIN has been made will be subject to inspection by DMV. All reconstructed, specially constructed, and replica vehicles must also be inspected by DMV's Law Enforcement Division before titling, even if the vehicle has an existing, usable VIN.
DMV charges a fee for the inspection, verification or identification of the serial number or VIN of any vehicle (see step 5).
Step 2: Submit proof of address
See Acceptable Documents for Titling a Vehicle in Virginia for specific guidance.
Step 3: Submit properly assigned ownership documents or bills of sale for:
- Frame
- Body
- Engine and Drivetrain (component parts consisting of engine, transmission and rear axle)
- MCO or MSO for cab/glider kit, if applicable (A glider kit is a new cab and front axle used to replace a wrecked or retired cab and the front axle. Motor vehicle sales and use tax is not required, but you must provide proof that you paid retail tax.)
- For replica vehicles, MCO or MSO of the chassis, if specially manufactured, or the title for the chassis if it came from another vehicle
Note:
For motorcycles, submit properly assigned ownership documents or bills of sale for the following:
- Frame
- Body
- Engine
- Transmission, if applicable
- Front-end assembly
Step 4: Submit the following documents:
- A detailed notarized statement stating how the vehicle was constructed
- Multiple pictures of the completed vehicle (You must show at least the front and side of the vehicle)
Step 5: Submit the following fees:
- $5 VIN Plate Fee, if applicable
- $125 Inspection Fee
- $15 Title Fee
- Motor Vehicle Sales and Use Tax (SUT)
Note: If the vehicle weighs 26,001 pounds or more, you are exempt from paying SUT. If you paid retail sales tax on any parts at the time of purchase and you are providing proof of payment, no SUT is required.
- Registration Fee, if applicable
Note: To operate your vehicle on Virginia highways, the vehicle must pass a state motor vehicle safety inspection. You must pay the local vehicle registration fee to the locality and display the local sticker or decal on the windshield, if applicable.
Step 6: Submit all documents and fees to:
Mailing Address
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
ATTN: Vehicle Branding Work Center
P.O. Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269
Physical Address
2300 W. Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23269
Note:
The estimated turnaround time for this process is three weeks if you submit all required documentation. You must assemble the vehicle before submitting your original paperwork to DMV for processing. A DMV Investigator will contact you to schedule an appointment to inspect the vehicle and install the VIN plate, if applicable.
Rules of the Road
- Replica vehicles may not be driven more than 5,000 miles each year. A state inspection must be performed on the vehicle and the state inspection sticker must be displayed on the windshield, if applicable.
- The locality sticker/decal must be displayed on the windshield, if applicable.
Note: While some localities don't require you to have a sticker/decal on a vehicle, you’re still required to pay the local registration fee. Check with the appropriate locality for requirements.