How To Transfer a Car Title in Virginia 2026

Under Virginia Code § 46.2-630, the transferee of a motor vehicle must record their name and address on the certificate of title and submit it to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 30 days of the transfer date, along with a completed application for registration and to obtain a new certificate of title.

The Virginia DMV serves as the sole issuing authority for motor vehicle certificates of title in the Commonwealth and oversees all title transfer transactions, including private sales, gifts, inheritances, and dealer transactions.

Required Documents for Title Transfer in Virginia

All original documents must be submitted to the Virginia DMV; photocopies are not accepted for title transfer processing.

Note: If the existing title has been lost or stolen, an Application for Replacement and Substitute Titles (VSA 67) must be submitted in lieu of the original document.

Step-by-Step Title Transfer Process in Virginia

Step 1: Assemble All Required Documentation

Prior to initiating the title transfer, both the buyer and the seller must confirm that all necessary documents are in order. Buyers should verify the vehicle's title status through the Virginia DMV before finalizing the transaction.

Sellers must confirm that:

• The certificate of title is undamaged and accurately reflects current ownership
• Any existing liens recorded on the title have been formally released with supporting documentation
• The current odometer reading is accessible for disclosure at the time of transfer

Buyers must confirm that:

• A valid Virginia driver's license or state-issued ID is on hand
• Active Virginia automobile insurance coverage is in place prior to registration
• A completed Bill of Sale or Vehicle Price Certification (SUT-1) has been obtained from the seller

Step 2: Execute the Title Endorsement and Delivery

As established under Virginia Code § 46.2-628, the seller must fully and correctly endorse the assignment and warranty of title on the reverse of the certificate, including a statement of all existing security interests. The endorsed certificate must then be delivered to the buyer at the time of vehicle transfer. Willful failure to correctly complete this endorsement constitutes a Class 3 misdemeanor under Virginia law.

The assignment section must include all of the following:

• Date of sale
• Sale price
• Buyer's full name and address, written in ink
• Seller's signature and printed name
• Odometer reading, in accordance with Virginia Code § 46.2-629, for all applicable vehicles

Odometer Disclosure Exemptions — the following vehicle classifications are not subject to odometer disclosure:

• Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating exceeding 16,000 pounds
• Model year 2010 and earlier vehicles transferred at least 10 years after January 1 of their model year
• Model year 2011 and later vehicles transferred at least 20 years after January 1 of their model year

Step 3: Complete the Application for Certificate of Title and Registration (VSA 17A)

The buyer must submit a fully completed VSA 17A Application for Certificate of Title and Registration, which serves as the formal request for issuance of a new Virginia title and registration record. The application requires entry of the following information:

• Vehicle identification number (VIN), year, make, and model
• Odometer reading recorded at the time of purchase
• Buyer's full name, residential address, and Virginia customer number (the customer number field may be left blank if the applicant does not hold a Virginia driver's license or ID)
• Title preference designation: electronic title or paper title

The Virginia DMV provides a step-by-step form completion guide to assist applicants in accurately completing the VSA 17A and preventing avoidable processing delays. A complete Bill of Sale or Vehicle Price Certification (SUT-1) must accompany the submitted application.

Step 4: Select a Submission Method

Virginia offers three approved methods for submitting a title transfer application. Eligibility for each method depends on the vehicle and applicant's qualifications.

Note: Electronic titling is restricted to qualifying passenger vehicles with a current Virginia title. Transactions conducted under a power of attorney, divorce decree, or right of survivorship must be processed in person or by mail.

Step 5: Submit Payment of Applicable Fees

All applicable fees are due at the time of application submission. The following standard charges are established in the Virginia DMV fee schedule:

Applicants may use the DMV Fee Calculator to generate an estimated fee total prior to submission. Accepted payment methods include cash, check, money order, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Credit card numbers must not be transmitted by mail or email under any circumstances.

Step 6: Await Processing and Receive the Certificate of Title

Upon receipt of a complete application package and full payment of all applicable fees, the Virginia DMV will process the title transfer and issue a new certificate of title. Processing timelines vary based on the method of submission:

• In-person with appointment or at a DMV Select: Certificate of title issued over the counter during the same visit
• In-person drop-off: Title available for collection within 3–5 business days
• By mail: Processing and return delivery are subject to postal transit times; applicants should retain tracking information and copies of all submitted documents
• Electronic titling: Title is maintained as a secure electronic record; a paper title may be requested at any time through the electronic title portal or at any DMV customer service center

Upon completion, the applicant will receive confirmation of the transaction along with updated registration documentation. If a paper title was designated on the VSA 17A, it will be mailed to the address provided on the application.

Contact Information

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
2300 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23269
Phone: (804) 497-7100
Official Website: Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles