Please find below frequently asked questions (FAQs) for active duty and foreign service-related DMV transactions. If you have a question that is not covered by these FAQs or on other areas of our website, please contact us at [email protected].
1. Can I renew my DC DMV credential or request a duplicate while I’m stationed outside of the District?
Yes! If you need to renew or replace your DC driver license or identification card while stationed outside the District, you can do so online.
After the transaction has been completed, you will need to submit a ticket to provide a copy of the transaction confirmation, deployment orders and the address you wish to have the credential mailed to.
2. What if my DC driver license has expired?
If your DC driver license has been expired less than 365 days, no retesting is required. For assistance completing the renewal process, please visit our Ask DC DMV a Question webform.
If your DC driver license has been expired between 365 and 545 days, you will need to complete the DC DMV Online Defensive Driving Course before being eligible to renew your driver license. Once the course has been completed and for assistance completing your driver license renewal, please visit our Ask DC DMV a Question webform.
If your DC driver license has been expired for more than 545 days, taking and passing the knowledge test and road skills test will be required.
3. What if I did not receive my DC DMV credential in the mail?
If you did not receive your DC DMV credential in the mail, please visit our Ask DC DMV a Question webform to report the issue and have a replacement credential processed.
4. What vehicle registration options are available to Active-Duty Military Service Members who are stationed in the District?
If you are US Military Personnel on Active Duty (includes spouses and minor dependents under age 21), you may be eligible for vehicle registration reciprocity.
5. Can I renew my DC vehicle registration while I’m stationed outside of the District?
Yes! If you need to renew your vehicle registration while stationed outside the District, you can do so online.
After the transaction has been completed, you will need to submit a ticket to provide a copy of the transaction confirmation, deployment orders and the address you wish to have the credential mailed to.
Note: a valid vehicle inspection and DC insurance is required to renew your registration.
6. How can I renew my DC vehicle inspection while I’m stationed outside of the District?
If you need to renew your DC vehicle inspection while stationed outside the District, the vehicle can be taken to a certified repair shop or dealer to have the emissions test/on-board diagnostic test completed.
7. If I’m stationed in the District, can I convert my out-of-state driver license to a DC driver license?
Yes! If you are seeking to convert your out-of-state driver license to a DC license, please visit our Convert Out-of-State Driver Licenses webpage for more information on eligibility and requirements.
8. What if I have other driver license or vehicle questions not listed in the FAQs?
For more information or questions on driver license or vehicle services, please visit our Ask DC DMV a Question webform.