Book your Virginia DMV appointment online or by phone before you visit

Virginia's Department of Motor Vehicles requires you to schedule an appointment before most in-person visits. You cannot walk in without one — the DMV will turn you away. The state runs a single online booking system for all locations, and you can also call a customer service line to reserve a time slot by phone.

The appointment system opens slots up to 60 days in advance. Availability varies by location and service type. Some offices fill up weeks ahead during peak seasons, while others have same-week openings. You will need to know which DMV location you want to visit and what service you need before you start the booking process.

Key Takeaways

  • Virginia DMV appointments must be booked through the official online system at dmvnow.com or by calling 1-866-368-5463; walk-ins are not accepted for most services.
  • The online system shows real-time availability for each location and lets you pick the date and time that works for you.
  • You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, or vehicle registration number to complete a booking.
  • Appointment slots open 60 days in advance, and popular times at busy locations can fill within days of opening.
  • If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it at least 24 hours ahead so the slot becomes available for someone else.

Book online through DMVnow

The Virginia DMV's online appointment system is called DMVnow, and it is the fastest way to reserve a time slot. Go to dmvnow.com and select "Schedule an Appointment" from the homepage. The system will ask you to choose a service category — for example, driver's license renewal, vehicle registration, or a knowledge test.

After you select your service, the system shows you all Virginia DMV locations and the available dates and times at each one. You can filter by location to see only offices near you. Once you pick a date and time, the system will ask for your contact information and the identification number it needs to pull up your record — usually your driver's license number or Social Security number.

You will receive a confirmation number by email and text message. Save this number; you will need it if you want to reschedule or cancel. The confirmation will also include the address of your DMV location, the date and time of your appointment, and a list of documents to bring.

Call the DMV customer service line to book by phone

If you do not have internet access or prefer to book over the phone, call 1-866-368-5463. This is Virginia's DMV customer service line, and representatives can book appointments for you. The line is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern time. Wait times are often long during morning hours and mid-week, so calling early or late in the day may be faster.

Have your driver's license number, Social Security number, or vehicle registration number ready when you call. Tell the representative which service you need and which location you prefer. They will tell you what dates and times are open and book the slot for you. You will receive a confirmation number over the phone and by mail.

What to bring to your appointment

Your confirmation email or letter will list the specific documents you need for your service. However, you should always bring a photo ID — a valid driver's license, passport, or military ID — and your Social Security number or tax ID. If you are renewing a vehicle registration, bring your current registration card and proof of insurance. If you are explore for a new driver's license, bring proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last 60 days.

Bring originals, not copies, unless the confirmation specifically says copies are acceptable. The DMV will not process your transaction if you are missing required documents, and you will have to reschedule. Check your confirmation email carefully before you go.

Reschedule or cancel your appointment

If you need to change your appointment date or time, go back to dmvnow.com and select "Manage an Appointment." Enter your confirmation number and the phone number or email you used when you booked. The system will show your current appointment and let you pick a new date and time from available slots.

You can also call 1-866-368-5463 to reschedule by phone. If you cancel without rescheduling, do it at least 24 hours before your appointment time. Canceling frees up the slot for other people and helps the DMV manage its schedule. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may have to wait longer for the next available slot.

What to expect when you arrive

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment time. Bring all documents listed in your confirmation. When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give the staff member your confirmation number. They will verify your information and direct you to the correct service window.

Processing times vary by service. A driver's license renewal usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. A vehicle registration transaction may take 20 to 45 minutes. If the DMV finds an issue with your documents or your record, the transaction may take longer or require a follow-up visit. Ask the staff member for an estimate when you check in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I walk in without an appointment?

No. Virginia DMV requires appointments for nearly all in-person services. The only exception is certain limited transactions at a few locations, but you should assume you need an appointment. Walking in without one will result in being turned away.

How far in advance can I book an appointment?

Appointments open 60 days ahead. If today is January 15, you can book as far out as March 16. Slots for popular times and locations fill quickly, so booking as soon as they open gives you more choices.

What if all appointments are full at my preferred location?

Try a different DMV location nearby, or check back in a few days — cancellations happen regularly and new slots may open. You can also call 1-866-368-5463 to ask a representative if they know of any openings at other offices.

Do I need to print my confirmation?

No. You can show the confirmation on your phone or bring the email. However, printing it is fine too. Either way, have your confirmation number ready when you check in.

What happens if I am late to my appointment?

If you are running late, call the DMV location directly to let them know. Some offices will hold your slot for 15 to 30 minutes. If you arrive more than 30 minutes late, you may be turned away and have to reschedule.