Washington District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
The nation’s capital may be smaller than any other state in the US, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need any driver-related services. The Washington, D.C. DMV provides just that, giving all D.C. drivers the tools and services necessary to take care of all their traffic-related tasks. While you can do things such as renew your vehicle registration and apply for a handicap placard, you can also take care of traffic tickets and schedule vehicle inspections as well. The D.C. DMV is your one-stop shop for any and all traffic-related matters.
Finding a Washington, D.C. DMV Office
It’s a good idea to become familiarized with your nearest DMV office, so you know what exactly to expect when you arrive. Some locations may offer services that other branches do not, and may also have special hours of operation. You can find out all of that info plus directions to each on the official D.C. DMV website.
Scheduling an Appointment at a D.C. DMV
Dealing with long lines and busy crowds at any DMV office seems to be an inevitable way of life. However, if you’re looking to take a road skills test, you can skip the queue and schedule an appointment ahead of time. All other services, however, are on a walk-in basis.
Forms Needed for the Washington, D.C. DMV
One of the best things you can do before heading to a DMV office is to fill out the appropriate forms for whatever tasks you’re thinking of completing. Paperwork is necessary for almost all of the traffic-related services the DMV offers; it only makes sense to expedite the process and fill out your forms ahead of time. You can find all the forms you’ll need listed on the DMV website.
The Washington, D.C. Driver Point System
In order to instill responsibility and accountability in every licensed D.C. drivers actions, the DMV has a Driver Point System to penalize drivers when they accumulate too many traffic violations. For each traffic violation you accrue, you’ll accumulate points on your system; point values are determined by the seriousness of the infraction. If you garner 10 points, you may get your license suspended with no driving privileges for 90 days. Gain more points, and you may be penalized with more severe consequences. Consult the full Driver Point System Chart for more info.
Getting a DMV Driving Record
To ensure you’re not close to license suspension or revocation, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your driving record frequently. Fortunately, the Washington, D.C. DMV has made it easier than ever to stay on top of any negative marks on your record. You can order a certified copy by mail or in person, or you can view a non-certified copy of your driving record online with minimal hassle. Visit the DMV website for more information.