Virginia passenger carriers transport passengers under a contract while passenger brokers sell and arrange transportation. Both entities must be licensed under the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Scroll down to learn how to get your passenger carrier or passenger broker license in Virginia.

How to Become a Licensed Passenger Carrier or Broker in Virginia

The license processes for Virginia passenger carriers and passenger brokers vary slightly. Only complete the steps necessary for the license you need.

Step 1: Fill out the operating authority license

Fill out the operating authority license application (OA-150). The application process has several steps and pieces of information that require your continued involvement with the DMV. Be sure to submit everything on time.

Step 2: Purchase and file your surety bond

Virginia requires a $25,000 surety bond for passenger carriers and brokers. With SuretyBonds.com, you can buy your Virginia passenger carrier/broker bond for just $250. Submit your surety bond forms to the DMV along with your license application.

Step 3: Apply and pay the $50 filing fee

Finally, submit your application and include payment for the $50 filing fee by check or money order to the DMV. You can also pay with a card by following the instructions on your application.

Step 4: Meet insurance requirements (Carriers only)

If your application is approved, file proof of insurance with the DMV. Required minimum bodily injury and property damage amount for total passengers, including the driver, are as follows:

$350,000 for 1–6 passengers
$1,500,000 for 7–15 passengers
$5,000,000 for 16+ passengers

Step 5: Register and title the operating vehicle(s) (Carriers only)

Register the vehicle(s), if necessary, and pay the $3 “for-hire” fee for each vehicle under your operating authority. Then, get your Virginia passenger carrier license plates for your specific type of operating authority.

If your vehicle is registered with the International Registration Plan (IRP), you will get apportioned plates instead. Find more information about passenger carrier plate requirements on the DMV website.

How to Renew Your Virginia Passenger Carrier or Broker License

The Virginia DMV will send you renewal applications for your license before it expires. There is no renewal fee, however carriers will need to pay the annual operating authority registration fee for each vehicle.

Your surety bond will also need annual renewal unless you choose a multi-year option.

How Much Does a Passenger Carrier or Broker License Cost?

You can expect to pay around $300 for your Virginia passenger carrier or broker license. These fees include:

$50 filing fee
$208–$250 surety bond* (save 25% with a multi-year discount)
$3 Operating Authority Registration fee per vehicle (carriers only)

*This range reflects SuretyBonds.com pricing.

Contact Information

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles

2300 W Broad St PO Box 27412

Richmond, VA 23269-0001

(804) 497-7100

How to Get a Virginia Passenger Carrier or Broker License