Each state in the United States has a branch of government that regulates issues like driver’s licenses, license plates, and vehicle registration. This branch is usually called the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or in Washington State, Department of Licensing (DOL). One of the main issues regulated by state motor vehicle departments is vehicle registration. Vehicle registrations aren’t just applicable to cars. It includes all vehicles, such as boats and recreational vehicles.
The vehicle registration procedure varies from state to state, but the procedures of each state have some similarities. Generally, vehicle registration requires the payment of a fee and must usually be renewed each year.
A vehicle must also be re-registered when ownership of a vehicle changes. Finally, states also require that most cars periodically undergo an emissions or smog test before renewing the car’s registration. Another area that the state motor vehicle department regulates is driver’s licenses. This includes both issuing and even suspending driver’s licenses in certain circumstances.
The requirements for obtaining a driver’s license depend on the rules of each state. Generally, each state has a minimum age requirement. The person applying for the license must pass a driving, written, and vision test.
States usually require people to get a new driver’s license if they change their name. But, getting a new license because of a name change typically doesn’t require that the driver take any tests.
State motor vehicle departments are also in charge of ensuring drivers are safe and responsible on the road. Many states employ a driver’s license point system to keep track of people’s driving records.
This point system assigns a point value to each traffic offense. More serious traffic offenses usually have higher point values.
When someone gets too many points within a specific time, they can have their driver’s license suspended or revoked. If a person’s license is revoked, they can usually reapply for a license after a waiting period set by law.
If you or a loved one is in a bind as a result of driving offense, immediately contact a Seattle Criminal Attorney. A Seattle Criminal lawyer is not going to judge you and understands that everyone makes mistakes. Hiring a Seattle Traffic Lawyer to help can – at a minimum – reduce penalties and can help direct people on how to best deal with their traffic charge, and many times even get them dismissed. So, it should go without saying that someone cited for a traffic offense, misdemeanor or felony should hire a qualified Seattle Traffic Lawyer as soon as possible. Infraction and criminal charges can cause havoc on a person’s personal and professional life. Anyone cited or charged with an infraction or a crime in Washington State should immediately seek the assistance of a seasoned Seattle Traffic Lawyer. SQ Attorneys can be reached at (425) 359-3791 and/or (206) 441-0900.
