So according to the DMV site if you own 2 cars you can drive your antique one as much as you want. That is way different from WV.

I didn't read that into it. My understanding is that it is now a single, one time $50 fee at which point you need the notarized paper saying it is "safe" (which I also did not read as being equal to a state safety inspection). Existing owners of antique plates also need to go through this BS - but only this one time (hence the letter).

"As much as you want" is defined by the rules (theoretically) - it can't be a daily driver and you can't drive >250 miles from your house unless you are going to a show/event, etc.

Supposedly buying an antique tag was a one-time fee too...but then here they come with the $50 thing.
One thing I noticed is that they don't say how you 'prove' it is safe to drive. Just say it must be notaized...I guess this is a legally binding way to say it's safe? So if you get in a crash or something they can sue you for lying that your car was safe...maybe?

The whole "what's going on these days in VA?" question is probably answered by the road projects and the metro to the airport bills...have to get that money somewhere eh?

As far as the other car as an option, I'm fine on that one, have a daily driver I don't drive either, haha. Just sucks to have to dish out an extra $150 (2 cars and one bike) in taxes on cars I thought were paid up, ya know?

Couldn't agree more! In reality it is just a way to generate funds from a small group (100k from what I heard - not enough for real political pull) that likely has the means (as they own antiques). It's a tax under the guise of "safety".

I have antique plates on my Healey just so I don't have to painfully dismantle the rear hubs every year to demonstrate the drum brake pads. Otherwise, I'd have normal registration.

Anyone know what is involved in getting the safety certification?

It's not a certification or even an inspection. Look at the new form located here: Antique Vehicle Application

At the very end there is a safety section that must be notarized. It simply states that to the best of your knowledge your car has the safety features appropriate for that model year.

I have good old AMERICAN H5's, which I'd be happy to trade you even-Steven for your H4's. :p

Peter

Virginia Code, Section 46.2-730, limits use of antique vehicles, trailers and motorcycles registered with antique plates to the participation in club activities,exhibits, tours, parades and similar events and to carrying or transporting passengers, personal effects and other antique vehicles for show purposes. Theymay also be used on Virginia highways to test vehicle/trailer operation, obtaining maintenance or repairs and/or to sell the vehicle or trailer. Antique platespermit occasional pleasure driving (not to exceed 250 miles from the owner's residence) but are not to be used for general transportation purposes, including butnot limited to, daily travel to and from the owner's place of employment.

To me it's a no brainer to use antique plates. If your car is over 25 years old, the rule allows you to do whatever you would normally do except use it for a DD or grocery getter. Any events for PCA or "other" would be under this rule. I'm tired of paying Va PP taxes for toys I own. BTW I've lived in 4 other states and none of them had PP taxes. Fla,Texas, Ohio and NY. The BS and hoop jumping alone was/is worth the antique tag status.
YMMV:roll: