District of Columbia · US-DC

District of Columbia DMV Offices

Verified District of Columbia DMV information in one place: 12 office locations with hours and ratings, real fee amounts, REAL ID rules, and how to renew a license or book a visit.

The District of Columbia has 12 DMV service locations, and the DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) handles driver licenses, ID cards, and vehicle registration. For official transactions and forms, always use dmv.dc.gov.

Driver's license & ID cards

A DC driver license costs $47 and is valid for 8 years for both first-time issuance and renewal. First-time applicants must pass knowledge and road tests and provide required documents in person. Note that a 2.5% service fee applies to card payments.

REAL ID

DC DMV issues REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs at no extra cost, and they must be obtained in person. Applicants must bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and two documents proving DC residency.

What to bring for your District of Columbia REAL ID

Tick each item as you gather it. Bring original documents — photocopies are not accepted.

Tip: Many states let you start the REAL ID application online and upload documents in advance — you still appear in person, but it saves time at the counter.

Vehicle registration

Vehicle registration is handled by DC DMV and requires proof of ownership, insurance, and a passed vehicle inspection where applicable.

Knowledge & drive tests

First-time drivers must pass a written knowledge test and a road skills test administered by DC DMV.

Making an appointment

DC DMV encourages scheduling appointments online at dmv.dc.gov, though some services allow walk-ins. Schedule online at dmv.dc.gov or call (202) 737-4404.

District of Columbia DMV fees

TransactionFee
Driver's license (original/renewal)$47
ID card$20
REAL ID (if extra)No extra charge

Fees verified against the official District of Columbia DMV website in August 2026. Fees can change — confirm at dmv.dc.gov/book/dmv-fees/driver-license-fees.

Top-rated DMV offices in District of Columbia

Highest-rated official DMV locations in District of Columbia, based on public Google ratings and review volume.

1

DC DMV - Benning Ridge Service Center

4525 Benning Rd SE, Washington, DC 20019

4.1★★★★☆
574 reviews
Opening hours
MonClosed
Tue8:15 AM to 4 PM
Wed9:15 AM to 4 PM
Thu8:15 AM to 4 PM
Fri8:15 AM to 4 PM
Sat8:15 AM to 4 PM
SunClosed
2

DC DMV - Southwest Service Center

95 M St SW, Washington, DC 20024

3.4★★★☆☆
930 reviews
Opening hours
MonClosed
Tue8:15 AM to 4 PM
Wed9:15 AM to 4 PM
Thu8:15 AM to 4 PM
Fri8:15 AM to 4 PM
Sat8:15 AM to 4 PM
SunClosed
3

DC DMV - Georgetown Service Center

3270 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

3.3★★★☆☆
787 reviews
4

DC DMV - Rhode Island Service Center

2350 Washington Pl NE #112N, Washington, DC 20018

3.2★★★☆☆
790 reviews
Opening hours
MonClosed
Tue8:15 AM to 4 PM
Wed9:15 AM to 4 PM
Thu8:15 AM to 4 PM
Fri8:15 AM to 4 PM
Sat8:15 AM to 4 PM
SunClosed

DMV offices by city

District of Columbia DMV offices are spread across roughly 1 cities. The largest concentrations:

Washington12

Individual city and office pages are being added state by state. Check back soon.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a DC driver's license cost?

A DC driver license costs $47 and is valid for 8 years for both first-time applicants and renewals.

Do I need an appointment at DC DMV?

DC DMV recommends booking an appointment online at dmv.dc.gov; you can also call 311 or (202) 737-4404 for assistance.

What documents do I need for a REAL ID in DC?

You must apply in person with proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and two documents proving DC residency.

Is a non-driver ID card free for seniors in DC?

Yes. The standard ID card is $20, but it is free of charge for residents 65 and older, homeless residents, and recently released ex-offenders.

Official District of Columbia resources

Verified links to the official District of Columbia government agencies. Always confirm requirements and fees on these sites before visiting.

Nearby states