Virginia Bill of Sale

What Virginia requires for a vehicle sale

• A bill of sale is needed unless the transfer is a qualifying gift; otherwise show proof of price such as a buyer's order, bill of sale or seller's declared price on the title.
• A bill of sale can be a handwritten statement signed by seller and purchaser, or a Vehicle Price Certification (SUT 1) signed by seller or purchaser.
• The seller completes Section A of the title with signature, buyer name and address, odometer, date and price, and must remove plates.
• The seller must notify DMV of the sale and notify their insurer.
• The buyer submits the title and Application for Title and Registration (VSA 17A), proof of address (DMV 177) and pays a $15 titling fee plus sales and use tax.
• For out-of-state vehicles bought within 12 months, a handwritten bill of sale must be signed by both seller and purchaser.

Virginia bill of sale: what to include

Whatever Virginia requires, a signed bill of sale protects both sides. It proves the price, the date and that the car was sold as-is. Include:

• Seller's and buyer's full names and addresses
• Year, make, model, color and VIN
• Odometer reading on the day of sale
• Sale price and date of sale
• As-is wording, plus a statement that the seller owns the vehicle and any lien is paid off
• Signatures and dates for both parties

Sample as-is wording

I, the seller, sell the vehicle described above to the buyer for the price shown, as-is, with no warranty, express or implied. The seller confirms they are the owner and that the odometer reading is correct to the best of their knowledge. This sale is made under the laws of Virginia.

Seller checklist (Virginia)

• Complete and sign Section A of the title, with the odometer reading, date and price.
• Remove license plates before the buyer takes the vehicle.
• Notify DMV of the sale online, in person or by phone.
• Notify your insurer after notifying DMV.

Buyer checklist (Virginia)

• Check the title for completed Section A and odometer reading.
• Complete the buyer sections of the title and the VSA 17A application.
• Provide proof of price and proof of address (DMV 177).
• Pay the $15 titling fee and sales and use tax.

Things to watch in Virginia

• The pages we read do not give a titling deadline after a private sale. Check with Virginia DMV.
• Notarization is mentioned only for trailer form VSA 12; the pages do not require a notarized bill of sale.

About this page

We checked this page against the Virginia DMV sources listed below in November 2026. Where an agency page did not say something, we say so and suggest you check with the agency. Rules, forms and fees change, so confirm with Virginia DMV before you sign. This is general information, not legal advice.