Dealerships selling or leasing vehicles to members of foreign missions should be aware of the unique registration process handled exclusively by the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Foreign Missions (OFM). Local DMVs in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia do not process vehicle titles or registrations for foreign diplomats or embassies.
Before completing a sale or lease, the dealership or buyer must request a Tax Exemption Letter by emailing OFM-FMS@state.gov. The request should include:
- The buyer’s name and Personal Identification Number (PID)
- The foreign mission name
- Vehicle details (VIN, make, model, year, and color)
- Dealership information (name, contact person, email, and phone number)
Once the exemption is issued and the sale is finalized, the dealership or buyer must mail the completed ownership documents to:
Foreign Mission Support Center (FMSC)
3507 International Place NW
Washington, D.C. 20008
Following receipt, OFM will process the title and registration. This procedure ensures compliance with diplomatic protocols and is critical for avoiding delays or complications.
For further questions or to learn more, dealers can visit state.gov/ofm or contact OFM directly at OFM-FMS@state.gov.
WANADA encourages all area dealers to familiarize themselves with these steps to ensure smooth and compliant transactions when working with the diplomatic community. Dealers can click here to access the flyer that OFM provided to WANADA on this topic.
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