Driver's License Extension - Diplomat

If you are either a member of the diplomatic service of the United States, appointed under the Foreign Service Act of 1946, or a spouse or dependent accompanying any such diplomat serving abroad (active principals only), you may apply for a diplomatic extension of your driver's license by mail.

You must:

  1. Provide Proof of Diplomatic Service
    1. If you are a member of of the U.S. diplomatic service
      1. One of the following:
        • A copy of your passport indicating diplomatic status
        • A copy of your employee ID card
      2. One of the following:
        • Your current diplomatic orders
        • A certification letter, on U.S. government letterhead, signed by your supervisor. This letter should include your name and indicate that you are serving in a diplomatic capacity outside of the United States.
    2. If you are a spouse or dependent of a member of the U.S. diplomatic service
      • A copy of your passport.
      • Current diplomatic orders listing your name
      • A certification letter, on U.S. government letterhead, signed by the supervisor of your family member who is a member of the diplomatic service. This letter should include your name and should indicate that your family member is serving in a diplomatic capacity outside of the United States.

  2. Complete and sign the Driver's License and Identification Card Application (DL 1P)

    Note: For your convenience, you may apply to register to vote by mail when you complete the application form. If you initial the YES box on the DL 1P indicating the desire to apply to register to vote, DMV will mail you a voter application.

  3. Mail the above items to:

Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver's License and ID Card Work Center
P.O. Box 27412
Richmond, VA 23269-0001

Failure to provide any of the requested information will result in your application being denied. Please ensure all documents requested are included in your mailing:

  1. Proof of diplomatic service documents
  2. Completed and signed DL 1P requesting a replacement license

Additional Information

Once your license extension has been approved, DMV will issue an extension card for you to carry with your expired license. If the expired license has been lost, stolen, damaged or mutilated, a duplicate license can be issued for a fee if your digital image is on file with DMV.

Within 180 days of returning to Virginia, you must visit a DMV customer service center to renew your driver license and, if required, to present proof of legal presence.