How to Transfer a Car Title in Virginia

When you buy a car, you will have to change the title into your name to become a registered owner of the car. It should be understood that there may be different rules for title transfers across states. 

In case this is your first time undertaking this process in Virginia, or it has been quite long since you last transferred a title in the state, there are many things that you might want to know regarding the process. To avoid confusion, here’s all the information concerning issues related to title transfer in the state of Virginia.

Car Title Transfer Fee

As soon as the matter of buying used cars is considered and the financial issues related to it have come up, one question that most people will ask is: what costs do I incur in changing the car title? In Virginia, it’s necessary to understand all the elements of each stage, including the factors that affect the title change process. A sum of $10 is charged in Virginia when the title of a vehicle is transferred. 

Fees for Amendments and Duplicates

If the title needs to be changed for any other reason, such as a change of name or address or a lien that needs to be removed, an extra $10 is charged for every change. Furthermore, it’s common for people to lose or even damage the title document. If that happens, a charge of $10 is incurred to replace such a title document.

Other Charges

Apart from the above fees, a person involved in a car title transfer in the state of Virginia is also charged a tax. This charge is assessed as 4.15% of the sale price of the vehicle or $75, whichever is greater. 

Essential Requirements for Car Title Transfer

There are wide processes that need to be undertaken so as to ensure that there’s a successful transfer of car ownership. It’s advisable to understand these requirements clearly during the process to ease the process at the DMV.

Documents From the Buyer

To commence the process of transferring the title, the buyer is required to produce certain documents. These documents include a safety inspection sticker, a properly completed ‘assignment of title by owner’ section in a Virginia car title, and verification of sale price, which is commonly done by providing a bill of sale. Documents are important because they help to prove that the transfer of ownership is legal.

Car Title Transfer Forms (Filled Out Correctly)

It’s important to fill out the transfer of title form accurately. The instructions that have been outlined in that form need to be carefully checked and followed. Tardy submission of the figures requires newly filled forms, thereby delaying the process even further.

Fulfillment of Lien

When a vehicle title is usually transferred, a transfer of certificate title with a lien form is needed. 

Responsibilities of the Buyer

Additional documents include proof of a Virginia address, an affidavit stating the amount of money paid for the vehicle, and the title and taxes for the transfer. These formalities are important in transferring the vehicle title to avoid legal problems.

How to Transfer the Title of Car After the Death of the Original Owner

Transferring a car title after the death of the original owner has different steps than a normal title transfer. In these situations, where a legal heir or any of the assigned heirs are required to transfer the ownership of the vehicle, there are certain documents needed at the DMV office.

Required Documents

As part of the title transfer process, you will first need the relevant death certificate of the deceased owner. This should be a certified copy submitted to the DMV. In addition, the current title of the vehicle, proof of residential address, specific fee on the title transfer, and required documents proving the inheritance of the vehicle will be other relevant documents needed for the transfer of the title.

Executor’s Role

In the event of a deceased owner’s last testament having an executor, court papers or copies of such a legal document stating the name of the estate’s officer will be required. These documents are very important as they confirm that the person who seeks to register ownership change is indeed the person entrusted to handle such assets by the deceased.

Alternative Scenarios

In circumstances where no nominee executor is named, a certification authority to transfer the Virginia title form may have to be presented. An affidavit can serve as documentary proof of your ability to carry out the title transfer as well as take legal control over the proceedings.

Ensuring a Smooth Title Transfer Process

Transferring a car title after the registered owner’s death can be satisfactorily met when all documents are filed at the right time. It’s also important that all procedures are completed within the stipulated time frame, as per Virginia laws.

Acquiring Duplicate Title for Ownership Transfer

In the cases mentioned above, in which a seller lost or misplaced the title of the vehicle being offered for sale, obtaining a duplicate title is a prerequisite before any ownership transfer is done. The seller is required to request a duplicate title from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, which usually charges $10 for the process. Virginia also requires requesting a duplicate title as it’s important to facilitate the legal transfer of vehicle ownership documents from the seller to the buyer.

How to Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member in Virginia

One of the exceptions available in Virginia law is where qualified family transfers in the sale of a motor vehicle are not subject to sales tax. This tax exemption is triggered when a family member transfers a car to another family member. However, it should be emphasized that this tax exemption pertains only to transfers with family members. 

Documents Required

Required documents are needed for transferring a car title to a family member in Virginia. When carrying out title changes in favor of family members, the normal requirements remain as they are but with a significant change. Apart from the standard requirements pertaining to documents, the seller is required to fill in a purchaser’s justification of exemption. This is important so as to protect the family member who will be on the receiving end of the vehicle from unnecessary tax that may be caused by transferring used vehicles. Adhering to this requirement is essential to enjoying the tax exemption benefit as provided for in Virginia.

Addressing Untransferred Signed Car Titles

Where a car title that has been signed remains untransferred, rectification of this matter is necessary, and the correct steps need to be taken. Most states require the buyer to inform the DMV about the sale, but in Virginia, both the seller and the buyer are required to notify the DMV. This process aims to minimize the likelihood of unintended consequences stemming from a seller providing the title with a signature and a buyer disregarding the registration process at the DMV.

Notifying DMV in Virginia

The owners of the vehicle wishing to comply with the title transfer requirements in Virginia, i.e., the seller and the buyer, unless otherwise agreed, must notify the DMV that the vehicle is no longer in possession of the registrant. 

Virginia DMV Contact Hours and Information 

For all those who would like more information concerning their specific title transfer situations or wish to know about the working hours and addresses of Virginia DMV facilities, it’s advised to visit the state’s official website. Virginia DMV authorities have incorporated a number of resources and contact information on the website to ensure that people resolve their concerns peacefully without too much hassle.

The Bottom Line

Navigating the process of transferring a vehicle title in Virginia can seem daunting, but with a clear understanding of the steps involved and the necessary documentation, you can successfully complete the transfer. By following the instructions outlined in this guide and ensuring all requirements are met, you can smoothly transfer the title of your vehicle and avoid any potential pitfalls. Make sure to double-check all forms, fees, and signatures to ensure a seamless transfer process. With diligence and attention to detail, you can confidently transfer the title of your vehicle in Virginia. And remember – you can always contact our team at Titlelo in case you have any more questions!