The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is now registering customers for the commonwealth’s Emergency Contact Program. The Emergency Contact Program, which was authorized by the General Assembly in 2015, gives law enforcement a way to notify a participant’s family or friends in the event of a serious crash or other emergency that leaves him or her unable to communicate. The program is free and available to residents with a valid Virginia driver’s license, identification card, learner’s permit, commercial driver’s license or temporary driver’s license.

Participation is voluntary. Parents and guardians who would like to enroll a child under age 15 must first obtain a child ID card for their child. Customers may list up to two emergency contacts. DMV will securely store the information and it will only be available for use by law enforcement in an emergency.

“Although we hope our customers never have to use it, we are pleased to be able to offer this service in the event that it may one day be helpful in an emergency situation,” DMV Commissioner and Governor’s Highway Safety Representative Richard D. Holcomb said. “Before you are involved in a serious crash or other emergency, make sure law enforcement officers have the information they need to get a loved one by your side. Sign up today for Virginia’s Emergency Contact Program.”

DMV offers three ways to sign up or make changes to your emergency contact information:  online visit dmvNOW.com; visit any DMV customer service center or DMV 2 Go mobile office; send the completed form to Data Integrity Work Center, Virginia DMV, P.O. Box 27412, Richmond, Va. 23269.