West Virginia Vehicle Bill of Sale

Do I need a bill of sale to sell a car in West Virginia?

Yes. West Virginia requires a bill of sale for private vehicle transactions. The state provides Form DMV-7-TR for this purpose. The bill of sale is particularly important when the purchase price is less than 50% of the vehicle's current NADA Clean Loan Book value — in that case, a notarized bill of sale is mandatory, or the buyer will be taxed on the full book value. Both the buyer and seller must sign the bill of sale, and copies of both parties' driver's licenses must accompany the form.

Does a West Virginia bill of sale need to be notarized?

Only sometimes. West Virginia does not require the seller's signature on the certificate of title itself to be notarized, and a notarized bill of sale is required only when the purchase price is less than 50% of the vehicle's NADA Clean Loan Book value — vehicles two years old or newer are always taxed on book value and can't use a notarized bill of sale to lower that. Outside those two cases, the document can be signed electronically. When notarization does apply, both the buyer and seller must sign in the physical presence of a notary public, who affixes their official seal; without it, the DMV may reject the title transfer application.

How long do I have to title a vehicle after purchase in West Virginia?

West Virginia does not specify a fixed number of days for private-party title transfers, but the buyer should apply promptly to avoid complications. Title transfers are processed through the county clerk's office or a DMV regional office. The buyer needs the properly assigned title, the notarized bill of sale (Form DMV-7-TR), copies of both parties' driver's licenses, proof of West Virginia liability insurance, and payment for the $15 title fee and 6% sales tax.

How much is the sales tax on a private vehicle sale in West Virginia?

West Virginia imposes a flat 6% consumers sales tax on vehicle purchases. The tax is assessed on the purchase price for vehicles sold at or above 50% of the NADA Clean Loan Book value. For vehicles sold below 50% of book value, the buyer must present a notarized bill of sale to have the tax assessed on the actual sale price; otherwise, the tax is calculated on the full book value. There are no additional local vehicle taxes. Trade-in credits are allowed if the trade-in is titled in the buyer's name.

Is an odometer disclosure required in West Virginia?

Yes. Federal law requires odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 20 model years old (for transfers 2021–2030, model year 2011 and newer). In West Virginia, the odometer reading is recorded on the title. If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, both parties must sign the odometer section. West Virginia also provides a separate Odometer Certification form (DMV-TM-1) that can be used when needed.

Are there inspections required to sell a car in West Virginia?

West Virginia does not require emissions testing. However, the state does require a safety inspection every 24 months. The current inspection sticker should be valid at the time of sale. The inspection covers brakes, tires, lights, steering, and other safety components and costs a maximum of $19. While the seller is not legally required to have a current inspection for the sale itself, an expired sticker may reduce buyer confidence and affect the sale.

Can I use electronic signatures on a West Virginia bill of sale?

No. Because West Virginia requires the bill of sale to be notarized with both parties physically present before a notary public, electronic signatures cannot replace the in-person signing requirement. The notary must witness both parties sign the document and verify their identities using government-issued photo identification. This requirement means the buyer and seller must coordinate an in-person meeting, often at a bank or notary office that offers notary services.

What if the vehicle has multiple owners?

If the vehicle is titled to more than one person, all owners on the title must sign the bill of sale. Use the "Add a co-seller" option on the form to add the second seller's name and address. Both sellers' names and signature lines will appear on the document. For electronic signing, each co-owner can sign on the same device in sequence, or the document can be passed from one device to another via QR code or shared link. Both buyers can likewise be named on the bill of sale using the "Add a co-buyer" option.