Other Vehicle Registrations in Washington DC

SUMMARY: How to Register a Special Vehicle Type in Washington, D.C.

Vehicles other than standard cars and trucks may have special registration requirements in Washington, D.C. ATVs and snowmobiles are exempt from registration, while trailers are registered based on their weight. Other vehicle types, such as motorhomes and custom-built cars, follow the same general process as regular vehicles.

In Washington, D.C., the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) not only requires you to register your car, but you must register other types of vehicles, too. If you have a motorcycle, trailer, or other type of vehicle that you wish to operate on public roads, you will need to have it registered.

Make sure you're aware of all the requirements before you take your vehicle out for a spin to avoid fines and other penalties.

ATVs and Snowmobiles

The Washington, D.C. DMV does not require you to title or register all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) or snowmobiles because the use of these vehicles on any public property, including public roads and highways, is banned in the district.

Washington, D.C. Trailers

To title and register your trailer, you should follow normal car titling and registration procedures. However, you will have to pay a different fee based on the weight of your trailer. To check how much your registration and title will cost, see the DMV's fee list.

To register your trailer, you'll be required to visit your local D.C. DMV office and:

  • Show proof of your insurance coverage.
  • Present your D.C. driver's license or identification card.
  • Pay the required fees.

Once registered, the Washington, D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles will issue you a tag which you must place at the rear of the trailer and ensure it is visible at all times.

For more information, see our D.C. Car Registration page.

Motorcycles & Motorized Bikes

You need to register and title motorcycles and motor-driven cycles by following normal motorcycle registration procedures. Costs vary depending on the type of motorized vehicle. To check how much your registration and title will cost, see the Washington, D.C. DMV's fee list.

Scooters and mopeds are generally considered motorized bicycles need to be registered in Washington, D.C. Remember, you must be at least 16 years old to operate a motorized bicycle, and you'll need a driver's license.

Low Speed Vehicles in D.C.

Low speed vehicles must also be registered in Washington, D.C. Low speed vehicles include those with 4 wheels and have a top speed of over 20 MPH (but no more than 25 MPH), such as golf carts.

You will need to have a valid driver's license, insurance coverage, and have a vehicle inspection completed before you can have it registered in the state.

Motorhome and RV Registration

If you have a motorhome or RV in Washington, D.C., the DMV requires you to register it just like you would a regular vehicle. Fees may vary depending on the size of your motorhome.

Follow the instructions on our D.C. Car Registration page.

Custom-Built Cars

If you have a custom-built car in Washington, D.C., the registration process is the same as for a regular car. Follow the instructions on our guide to D.C. Car Registration.

You may need to apply for a vehicle identification number (VIN) and a title certificate if you don't already have these. Contact the Washington, D.C. DMV for specific instructions for your situation.

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