With prom and wedding season just around the corner, many Virginians are booking
limousines. But beware: not all limo services are equal. In Virginia, a limousine service must be properly licensed, insured and should meet certain safety criteria.
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers an online resource for
customers who want to make the right choice for proms or weddings. A list of
registered and insured limousine companies operating in
“Randomly selecting a limo company from the phone book or online does not guarantee the
company is properly licensed or insured,” said DMV Commissioner Richard D.
Holcomb, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “Give yourself some
peace of mind by using our website to help you avoid those companies that could
potentially put you, family members or friends in danger.”
DMV offers several tips for consumers before they secure a limousine to make sure they are getting the specific vehicle they want. For example, ask to see the actual limousine that you will be renting. Also, make a checklist of the following:
- The limousine is clean, and will comfortably and safely hold everyone in your party
- The vehicle is equipped with working seat belts for all passengers
- The
- Ask about the company's insurance coverage, vehicle maintenance and driver screening programs
When renting a limousine, ask in advance if there will be any additional charges for gratuities, vehicle cleaning, mileage and fuel costs. Do not sign a contract or make payment for a limousine until you have read the contract. It should give you exclusive use of the limousine
during the entire contract period.
To file a complaint about a limo service, you may contact the Office of the Attorney General’s consumer protection hotline, either at (804) 786-2042 or (800)-552-9963. To file a complaint online, visit www.dmv.virginia.gov/exec/forms/mcs/mcs_complaint_intro.asp.
