How to Complete a Virginia Application for Title: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a certificate of title is a necessary step when you buy, sell, or transfer a vehicle. Many states require that all vehicles have a registered owner, including Virginia.

But the process of applying for a car title can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to being a car owner. We’re here to provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to complete a Virginia application for title.

Understanding the Importance of a Certificate of Title

What is a Certificate of Title?

A certificate of title is an official document establishing legal ownership of a vehicle. A Virginia certificate of title offers legal protections and provides proof that you own your car.

Why You Need a Title for Your Vehicle

Having a car title in your name is important for a number of reasons:

• It’s required to register your car.
• It’s required to sell your car.
• It’s often required to buy car insurance.
• It’s required to obtain a license plate and safety inspection sticker.

Overview of the Titling Process in Virginia

To obtain a title for your car in Virginia, you’ll need to fill out an Application for Certificate of Title and Registration and submit it to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Local offices throughout the state provide walk-in service.

If you prefer not to wait, you can make an appointment or go through a DMV Select partner and receive your title over the counter. If you’re not in a rush, you can mail your application or drop it off at your local DMV. If you’re a Virginia resident and meet the eligibility requirements, you may also be able to use the state’s official electronic titling system.

The process of obtaining a title follows this basic structure:

Step 1: Present the following documents

The documents for a vehicle title transfer Virginia residents must provide are different from those required of non-residents. Depending on where you live and the type of car you drive, you’ll need to provide the following:

For in-state vehicles and trailers

1. Filled-out and signed application materials:
   1. If your car is brand new: A Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO)/Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) and an Application for Title and Registration (online or physical copy)
   2. If your car is used: A Virginia title with the “Certification of Buyer” section completely filled out (the “Application of Registration” section also needs to be filled out if you’re applying to register your vehicle at the same time)
2. Proof of address
3. Proof of the purchase price of the vehicle (e.g. buyer’s order, bill of sale)

For out-of-state vehicles and trailers

1. An Application for Title and Registration (online or physical copy)
2. Proof of address
3. One of the following documents:
   1. Your vehicle title or registration card from your former state of residence
   2. The out-of-state title showing that the previous owner signed the vehicle over to you
   3. A document issued by the U.S. Armed Forces that names you as the owner of the vehicle
4. If you bought your car within the last year, one of the following documents:
   1. Proof of the purchase price
   2. A Vehicle Price Certification, which must be signed by the seller or buyer

For out-of-state trailers that have no title

1. An unexpired registration card (or one that has been expired for less than a year)
2. An MCO
3. A filled-out Application for Certificate of Title and Registration
4. An Application in Lieu of Title Certificate, completely filled out, signed, and notarized
5. A bill of sale (if you don’t have one, you can provide a filled-out and signed Vehicle Price Certification)

For imported vehicles

1. An Application for Certificate of Title and Registration
2. Proof of address
3. Proof of ownership (e.g. current title, former registration, MCO, MSO)
4. If you have any documents written in a foreign language, English translations of these documents
5. CBP forms 7501 (online or paper copy) and 3461, completely filled out and signed
6. A bill of sale or invoice that displays the vehicle identification number (VIN)
7. An EPA 3520-1 Declaration
8. A U.S. DOT HS-7 Declaration

Step 2: Pay the following fees

Applying for a certificate of title requires you to pay the following:

1. A $15 titling fee
2. A 4.15% sales and use tax (calculated based on the purchase price of the vehicle)
3. A registration fee (if applicable)

Step 3: Record odometer reading

Every Virginia application for title and registration must include the odometer reading, which is needed to calculate the sale price value. There are also sections for selecting an electronic or paper title, insurance certification, and lease information.

When You Need to Apply for a Virginia Application for Title

You need to complete a Virginia application for title whenever you’re doing one of the following:

• Buying a new or used car
• Moving to Virginia from another state
• Transferring ownership of your car
• Removing a lien (paying off an auto loan)
• Inheriting a car
• Replacing a lost car title
• Making a change or correcting an error on an existing title

Get the Help You Need for Your Virginia Application for Title!

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