In order to obtain and maintain operating authority, the motor carrier must keep in force a motor vehicle liability insurance policy that covers for hire operations. Household goods carriers must also keep a cargo insurance policy in force.
A motor carrier may request relief from the normal insurance requirements by deactivating the registration of all vehicles used to perform the transportation service authorized by their DMV certificate or permit. Deactivation of the vehicle registration is the responsibility of the motor carrier. After deactivation of vehicle registration, the motor carrier can complete and submit to DMV a Notification of Deactivated Motor Carrier Fleet (MCS 130) to avoid suspension and subsequent revocation of their operating authority which is otherwise the result of the cancellation or expiration of required insurance.
Unlawfully Operating a Vehicle with Deactivated Plates
Deactivating vehicle registration does not require return of the license plates to DMV; however, a vehicle with deactivated registration may not be lawfully operated on any highway (defined in Code of Virginia § 46.2-2100.) of the Commonwealth. A fee for reactivation of vehicle registration may apply. Relief from motor carrier insurance requirements is not an option for motor carriers deactivating the vehicle registration of just a portion of their fleet.
Please be aware that operating a vehicle with deactivated registration can have serious consequences such as immediate revocation of the vehicle registration, the possible issuance of a summons, assessment of a civil penalty, and suspension or revocation of the DMV certificate or permit authorizing the for-hire transportation service.
Deactivation / Reactivation Methods
Service options for deactivating registration include:
- Online at https://transactions.dmv.virginia.gov/dmvnet/reg_deactivate/deactivate_intro.aspx
- Visiting a DMV customer service center
- Visiting a DMV Select
- Sending a request by mail to
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Attn: Special Registration Work Center
PO Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269-0001
- Calling DMV at 804-497-7100
The same service options apply for reactivating registration. You can reactivate registration online at https://transactions.dmv.virginia.gov/dmvnet/reg_deactivate/reactivate_intro.aspx.