What is ROSA?

ROSA stands for registration of out of state automobiles. Automobiles housed in the District of Columbia for 30 consecutive days are required to be registered and display a valid DC inspection sticker and tags when parked or operated on public space. The Metropolitan Police Department monitors residential areas for the presence of automobiles not in compliance with DC registration requirements. If an automobile has been observed a second time within a thirty-day period, a warning notice may be issued indicating the automobile is eligible for the issuance of a citation and/or impoundment unless one of the following actions has been taken.

• Recurring visitor (frequent short term visits) report to a DMV service location and prove non-residency by presenting an original lease, deed or mortgage statement or a utility bill no more than 60-days old. The documents must be in the name of the registered owner of the vehicle. Copy of out-of-state license and vehicle registration are also required. ROSA parking exemption is good for a 180-day period.
• Temporary residents (more than 30 days) must register their vehicles or apply for the reciprocity permit.

What if I don’t have a lease, deed or mortgage in my name?

You must provide all of the following:

• A statement from the homeowner attesting to the fact that you reside at their home.
• A copy of a current utility bill (60 days or less) in the homeowner's name.
• A copy of the homeowner's drivers license or non-drivers identification.
  

What happens once I receive the ROSA exemption?

Once you receive an exemption from ROSA, your vehicle license tag number will be entered into the District’s ticket management system. The exemption applies to ROSA enforcement only. All other parking regulations apply. You will receive a receipt for your records indicating the exemption expiration date (180 days).

What happens if I get a ticket for failure to secure DC tags?

You may contest the ticket by mail or in person. You should present the same documents presented to receive the ROSA exemption.

What happens after the 180-day exemption period?

If you receive another warning notice, you may repeat the exemption process above.

Note: ROSA is not a parking permit, and it does NOT exempt a vehicle from DC parking regulations.