Hi Wayne,

People up here have received letters from Richmond DMV. It tells about the new law effective July 1, 2007. It says: Effective July 1, 2007, Virginia law (Code of Virginia, Section 46.2-730) requires that owners of registered antique motor vehicles and trailers provide evidence that they own or have regular use of another properly registered passenger vehicle or motorcycle. In addition, owners must submit an original notarized certification that the registered antique motor vehicle or trailer meets the safety equipment requirements for the model year in which it was manufactured and is capable of being safely operated on the highways of Virginia. Please use the Antique License Plate Application Certification (VSA 10B) form on the back of the letter.

It must be completed and returned to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before January 1, 2008. DMV will verify the "Use of Another Vehicle or Motorcycle" information to ensure the registration is active. If you do not return the form before January 2, DMV will cancel the vehicle registration, according to Virginia law. (there is more about were to send form)

Carefully read the "Use of Antique Plates" section on the VSA 10B form to ensure you are properly using the registered antique vehicle or trailer. If you are not, you must apply for standard registration plates, with annual/biennial renewal, that have no driving restrictions. (there is more about contacting DMV if you have questions) The letter is signed by Jim Gurney, Director, Vehicle Services. FORM: Antique License Plate Applicant Certification Purpose: Instructions: Return the completed VSA 10B form (along with a VSA 10, VSA 14 or VSA 17A) with the one-time $50.00 fee and any other applicable fees to any DMV customer service center. You may also mail the forms and fees to DMV. (gives address).

The question is - if the vehicle has been registered and you receive the letter, after filling the form (VSA 10B)out and having it notarized, do you have to pay the one-time $50.00 fee? I don't think it applies to vehicles already registered - only when you register an antique vehicle after July 1, 2007. Is this correct? The form also states under USE OF ANTIQUE PLATES: .... Antique plates permit occasional pleasure driving (not to exceed 250 miles from the owner's residence) ... The way I read this part - you can go to shows, participate in club activities, exhibits, tours, parades and similar events that are more than 250 miles from home. Pleasure driving to me is just driving the vehicle for fun - no planned event. Thanks for your help. mji