How Long Can You Drive with Expired Tags in Virginia?

Virginia drivers need to be aware of the consequences of driving with expired tags. This article will explain the laws and regulations surrounding expired tags in Virginia, so you can make sure you stay on the right side of the law.

What Are the Laws Concerning Expired Tags in Virginia?

In Virginia, drivers who allow their tags to expire face legal penalties. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, drivers are required to renew their vehicle registration before the expiration date. If they fail to do so, their registration will expire and their vehicle will become unregistered. If a driver is found to be operating an unregistered vehicle, they can be issued a summons and be required to appear in court.

In some cases, a driver may be found guilty of a Class 1 Misdemeanor, with a possible penalty of up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. In addition, a driver may be subject to additional fines and penalties including suspension or revocation of their driver’s license, and the vehicle may be impounded.

How Long Can You Drive With Expired Tags in Virginia?

It is important to note that it is illegal to operate a vehicle with expired tags in Virginia. There is no grace period for expired tags in Virginia. As soon as the registration expires, the vehicle is considered to be unregistered and the driver may be subject to the legal penalties outlined above.

It is also important to note that the penalties for driving with expired tags can be more severe if a driver is found to be operating an unregistered vehicle for an extended period of time. For example, if a driver is found to have been operating an unregistered vehicle for more than 30 days, they may be charged with a felony, and may face up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.

What Should You Do if You Have Expired Tags in Virginia?

If you have expired tags in Virginia, the best course of action is to immediately renew your vehicle registration. You can do this online at the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website or you can visit your local DMV office.

If you have been driving with expired tags for an extended period of time, you may also want to consider taking a Virginia Commonwealth Driving Improvement Clinic online 8 hour class. This class will teach you how to be a safe and responsible driver, and may help you avoid the penalties associated with driving with expired tags.

Conclusion

Driving with expired tags in Virginia is illegal and can result in serious legal penalties, including jail time and fines. It is important to renew your vehicle registration before it expires to avoid these penalties. If you have already been driving with expired tags for an extended period of time, you may want to consider taking a Virginia Commonwealth Driving Improvement Clinic online 8 hour class. Taking this class may help you avoid the penalties associated with driving with expired tags in Virginia.