Title & Proof of Ownership
Virginia titles all motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, mopeds, trailers, motorized watercraft, and sailboats greater than 18 feet. ATVs and off-road motorcycles over 50cc purchased new on or after July 1, 2006 must be titled; all other ATVs and off-road motorcycles may be titled at owner’s option.
Title-Required and Exempt Units
Title Required
Motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, mopeds, trailers, motorized watercraft, sailboats greater than 18 feet, manufactured homes, and qualifying ATVs/off-road motorcycles over 50cc purchased new on or after July 1, 2006.
Optional Title
ATVs and off-road motorcycles not required to be titled may be titled at the owner’s option.
Title Exempt
Snowmobiles, farm tractors, farm machinery, farm utility vehicles, farm vehicles used for spraying fruit trees and plants, implements of husbandry, special mobile equipment, road maintenance equipment, special construction and forestry equipment, emergency vehicles, canoes, barges, and documented vessels are exempt.
Manufactured Homes
Manufactured homes are titled, with one title issued regardless of number of units. If attached to real estate, Affidavit for Manufactured Home Conversion to Real Property (VSA 35) must be submitted with the title for cancellation. A $30.00 inspection/administrative fee is collected on each manufactured home sold by a Virginia dealer.
Application for Title
Application for Certificate of Title and Registration (VSA 17A), or VSA 17B for manufactured homes, may be made in person at a Customer Service Center or by mail to the DMV Title Work Center. Vehicle title fee is $15.00. Applicant does not need to apply in the county of residence. Drop-off service is available, and title may be picked up in 3–5 days.
| Title Item | Amount / Notes |
|---|---|
| Vehicle title | $15.00 |
| Watercraft title | $10.00 using BRT-001 through Department of Wildlife Resources |
| Replacement / substitute title | $15.00 using VSA 67 or VSA 66 |
| Duplicate watercraft title | $7.00 using BRT-011 |
| Manufactured home dealer inspection/admin fee | $30.00 additional fee forwarded with fees and taxes |
| Salvage title / certificate | Title fee applies; additional $25.00 processing fee may apply if insurer cannot present title |
| Rebuilt vehicle examination | $125.00 examination fee plus $15.00 substitute title fee |
| Assigned VIN | $5.00 VIN application fee, if applicable |
| Abandoned Vehicle Process record request | $40.00; out-of-state abandoned record request $25.00 |
| Trip Permit | $5.00; valid three days |
| IRP / IFTA Trip Permit | $15.00 IRP; $20.00 IFTA; $35.00 combination IRP/IFTA; valid 10 days |
| Dealer plates | $60.00 first two plates; $26.00 each additional plate |
| Manufacturer plates | $30.00 first two plates; $13.00 each additional plate |
Title may be held electronically by selecting the Electronic Title Option. A paper title may later be requested. If no lien ever existed on the vehicle record, the paper title may be requested at no fee; otherwise, the title fee applies.
Dealer Processing
Motor vehicle dealer title work is no longer performed at Customer Service Centers, but at specified auto auction and processing center locations. All franchise dealers and independent dealers selling 100 or more vehicles annually must join the Online Dealer Program. Dealers issue registration cards, plates, and decals at point of sale and electronically update DMV files.
Watercraft Title
Application for Watercraft Certificate of Title and Certificate of Number (BRT-001) with $10.00 fee may be submitted by mail to DWR, in person at DWR headquarters, or online. Allow approximately 90 days. If the watercraft has never been titled or registered in any state, BRT-002 must be submitted with photos from all sides.
Electronic Signatures
Electronic signatures using an electronic signature pad or electronic signature service are allowed on documentation such as title applications, appointment of agent forms, and lien filings or releases. Electronic signatures are not allowed on titles or reassignment forms. Electronic notaries are accepted.
Casual Sale Program
Ownership may be transferred electronically through the Casual Sale Program. The process does not generate a paper title. Purchasers may use the Title and Registration Guide to create a checklist for the transaction.
Proof of Ownership
New Vehicles
Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin or Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin.
Used Vehicles
Certificate of Title.
Non-Title Issuing Jurisdiction
Registration card that is unexpired or expired for less than one year. Application in Lieu of Title Certificate (VSA 12) is required for out-of-state trailers with no title.
Government Surplus Vehicles
U.S. Government Certificate to Obtain Title to a Vehicle (SF97-1).
Foreign Vehicles
Foreign ownership documents plus proof of conformity with FMVSS, which may include CBP 7501 or 3461, NHTSA HS-7, Bond Release Letter, manufacturer confirmation letter or EPA 3520-1, and any additional HS-7 requirements. Documents in a foreign language require English translation. Foreign military personnel under NATO may be exempt from FMVSS compliance.
Purchase Price
Proof of purchase price is required if purchased within the preceding 12 months, such as bill of sale, buyer’s order, or seller’s declared sale price on the title. Vehicle Price Certification (SUT 1) may be used.
Surrender / NMVTIS: Proof of ownership must be surrendered. Documents are imaged and the issuing state is notified. Virginia provides data to and inquiries NMVTIS before issuing titles.
Insufficient Evidence, Special Titles, Brands, Duplicate, Odometer & VIN/HIN
Insufficient Evidence
If current title is unavailable due to legitimate circumstances, submit Affidavit in Lieu of Title Certificate (VSA 12), or VSA 12M for mopeds, ATVs, or trailers, with available ownership documents and applicable fees/taxes. Watercraft use Affidavit for Transfer of Watercraft Registration/Title (BRT-004); if valued over $5,000, a bond for value plus 20% is required and may be released after one year.
Special Titles
Virginia may issue Non-Negotiable Title for recording a lien or for foreign market vehicles manufactured 25 or more years ago. Nonnegotiable junk title may be issued for vehicles with out-of-state brands such as junk, destruction, parts only, or not to be repaired after they have been rebuilt, titled, and registered elsewhere.
Title Brands
Brands appear under the control number on the right side of the Virginia title. Brands include Branded if Rebuilt, Branded if Repaired, Converted Electric, Ex-Taxi, Glider Kit, Hull Damaged, Junk Nonnegotiable-Not for Resale, Non-Repairable, Off-Road Motorcycle Converted to On-Road Use, Rebuilt, Repaired, Replica, Reconstructed, Specially Constructed, Water Damaged, and odometer brands.
Replacement / Substitute Title
Application for Replacement and Substitute Title (VSA 67) or Application for Transfer and Supplemental Liens (VSA 66) is submitted with $15.00 fee. Online title replacement receives a $1.00 discount. If VIN, weight, or body type is incorrect, Registration-VIN-Business Change Application (VSA 71) is also required.
Odometer Disclosure
Required on transfer. Odometer Disclosure Statement (VSA 5) is used when title lacks space for both seller and purchaser to sign. Model year 2010 or older vehicles, trailers and other vehicles without odometers, ATVs, mopeds, off-road motorcycles, and trucks over 16,000 lbs. GVWR are exempt.
VIN / HIN Inspection
VIN inspection is required on vehicles without a valid VIN. Rebuilt, reconstructed, specially constructed, and replica vehicles require VIN inspection before titling. Application for Assigned Vehicle Identification Number (VSA 22) is used. HIN inspection may be required for watercraft.
Stolen, Salvage, Rebuilt, Nonrepairable, Junk & Abandoned Units
Stolen Vehicle / Watercraft
An insurer must apply for title for a stolen Virginia-titled vehicle acquired through claims if not recovered. Registration is suspended until recovery. Recovery is reported using Report of Recovered Stolen Vehicle (VSA 99). Stolen watercraft must be reported to DWR within 15 days using BRT-018, and recovery reported using BRT-019.
Salvage Vehicle / Watercraft
Salvage includes late model vehicles acquired by insurer through claims, vehicles where repair cost exceeds actual cash value less salvage value, recovered stolen vehicles with repair cost over 75% actual cash value, or vehicles determined salvage by owner/insurer. Submit Salvage Certificate Application (VSA 56) with title, repair estimate, title fee, and taxes. Hull-damaged watercraft require title brand designation before transfer.
Nonrepairable Vehicle
Use Nonrepairable Certificate Application (VSA 57) with title or salvage certificate. No fee. Nonrepairable vehicles can never again be titled, registered, or legally driven in Virginia and may only be used for parts.
Rebuilt Vehicle
Rebuilt salvage vehicles must pass Virginia safety inspection and DMV salvage examination. Submit salvage certificate, Request for Examination of Rebuilt Salvage Vehicle (LES 022A), $125.00 exam fee, and $15.00 substitute title fee. Bring inspection proof, parts receipts, pre-repair photos, and any old component parts showing VIN to the examination.
Junk / Demolition
Out-of-state nonrepairable-equivalent vehicles rebuilt elsewhere receive nonnegotiable junk title using Acknowledgement Nonnegotiable Junk Title (VSA 140). A vehicle to be demolished must have title surrendered within five business days with Vehicle Removal Certificate (VSA 40). Vehicle disposition may be reported electronically through VDR.
Abandoned Vehicle / Watercraft
Use DMV’s online Abandoned Vehicle Process and obtain VSA 40. If unclaimed, intent to auction must be posted for 21 days before auction, titling, or demolition. Watercraft abandoned on applicant’s property or adjacent water may be titled after required periods and Abandoned Watercraft Affidavit (BRT-006) procedures.
Lien Law
Virginia liens must be filed with DMV and noted on title to be valid. Lien instrument is not required to be submitted, but financing statement is required to perfect security interests in farm tractors and special construction and forestry equipment. Title with lien is mailed to the lienholder or held electronically.
Filing and Perfection
To record a lien after original title issuance, submit Application for Transfer and Supplemental Liens (VSA 66) with title and title fee. A lien is perfected as of date acquired if filed within 30 days; otherwise, it is perfected as of filing date. For watercraft, Application for Supplemental Lien or Transfer of Lien (BRT-021) is used with $10.00 fee, and perfection is date of filing or attachment, whichever is later.
Electronic Lien Program
Banking and financial institutions that record 50 or more vehicle liens per calendar year must electronically transmit lien information to DMV through an approved service provider. Other lienholders may voluntarily enroll in the ELP.
Lien Expiration
Liens are valid until a release is submitted.
Responsible Party
Lienholder is responsible for filing liens on vehicles purchased from out-of-state dealers. For Virginia dealer purchases, responsible party depends on lienholder agreement with dealer and/or customer.
Assignment, Mechanic/Storage Lien, Release, UCC & Records
Assignment of Lien
Original and new lienholder jointly complete VSA 66 and submit with current title and substitute title fee. Watercraft use BRT-021 with $10.00 fee.
Mechanic / Storage Lien
Eligible persons with unpaid towing, recovery, repair, and storage services may retain possession until charges are paid. Lien may be enforced 10 days after invoice due through the online Mechanic’s/Storage Lien Process. If an owner is active-duty military, a court order is required.
Watercraft Storage / Mechanic Liens
Storage facilities and mechanics must follow DWR affidavit procedures, including BRT-025 for self-service storage or mechanic lien compliance affidavits for unpaid watercraft repairs before sale.
Release of Lien
Lender must notify owner and DMV of release within 10 days and send title to owner showing lien satisfied. VSA 67, title or proof of release, and fee remove the lien from DMV records. Lien may also be released electronically. Watercraft termination statement must be submitted within 20 days after demand and within 30 days after satisfaction.
UCC
Liens on non-titled vehicles may be filed with the State Corporation Commission, Clerk’s Office, UCC Section, PO Box 1197, Richmond, VA 23218. UCC documents are accepted through the online Clerk’s Information System.
Records
Lien records are on file with the Department of Motor Vehicles in Richmond.
Transfer of Title
Virginia transfer is completed by assignment of title. If there is a lien, lienholder must provide Transfer of Certification of Lien Information (SUT 4). Title must be applied for within 30 days of purchase or transfer; watercraft within 20 days. New residents must title vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency.
Seller Notification and Transfer
Seller must notify DMV of sale, trade, or transfer at a Customer Service Center, by phone, online, or using the back of the registration card. Watercraft owners must report transfer on Notification of Change in Status of a Numbered Vessel (BRT-010) or online within 15 days.
Damage Disclosure
Rebuilt Vehicle Disclosure Statement (VSA 59) must be signed by seller and purchaser upon transfer of a rebuilt vehicle. Prospective Purchaser Inquiry may provide odometer reading at title, water damage/demolition notes, vehicle history, and disclosure statements for $12.00. Hull damage must be stated on watercraft title or BRT-001.
Add / Remove Owner
Same procedures as any other transfer. New plates are required; active plates may be transferred. Registration fees are prorated based on remaining registration period.
Joint Ownership
“Or” or “or survivor” indicates joint ownership with survivorship. “And” or no conjunction indicates owners in common. Watercraft titles may show “and/or.” All owners’ signatures are required to transfer ownership regardless of conjunction.
Transfer Upon Death
Surviving co-owner with right of survivorship may transfer title/registration with certified or notarized death certificate, title, and fees. If no survivorship, estate documents, Certification of Authority to Transfer Virginia Title (VSA 24), or small-estate affidavit may apply. Watercraft use BRT-003.
Transfer on Death
Beneficiary Transaction Request (VSA 18) adds, changes, or removes a beneficiary on vehicle title. Beneficiary cannot be designated if there is a lien. Beneficiary must apply for title within 120 days of owner’s death. TOD is not available for watercraft titles.
Notarization / POA
Notarization of title is not required. Power of Attorney to Sign for Owner (VSA 70) may be used. Dealers must use Secure Power of Attorney (VAD 70A) when title is lost or held by lienholder and dealer certifies odometer for owner. Watercraft use BRT-016.
Limited Assignment Space
Virginia dealers may use Reassignment of Title by Virginia Motor Vehicle Dealer (VAD 20). A maximum of three dealer reassignments may be completed before retitling by the third dealer. Out-of-state dealers may use out-of-state supplemental reassignment forms. Individuals must obtain new title before transfer.
Tax-Exempt Estate Transfer
If a vehicle transfers to a spouse or heir, or under a will, the transaction is exempt from sales tax.
Repossession
After default under a security agreement, secured party may take possession without judicial process if it proceeds without breach of peace. Virginia requires the lienholder to obtain a Repossession Title in its name after taking possession of the vehicle. Title fee applies, but transaction is exempt from sales tax unless registering.
Repossession Title
Security interest must be recorded on the Virginia title. The lienholder must obtain a REPO title before transfer, including out-of-state repossessed vehicles, unless a lienholder sells the out-of-state repossessed vehicle to a licensed Virginia motor vehicle dealer.
Out-of-State Vehicle
Repossession of Vehicle Titled Out-of-State (VSA 98) is used when applying for a Virginia REPO title for a vehicle titled in another state. All repossession documents required by the originating state must accompany the form unless the vehicle is not required to be titled there.
Watercraft Repossession
Statement Covering Repossession of a Boat/Watercraft (BRT-022) is used for watercraft repossessions.
Dealer / Lender Checklist
Verify recorded lien, repo title requirement, VSA 98 for out-of-state units, state-required repossession documents, BRT-022 for watercraft, odometer disclosure, title brand, and registration/tax status before resale.
Registration
Virginia requires registration for all motor vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, trailers used upon highways, and motorized watercraft. Documented vessels, tow dollies, and converter gears are registered at owner’s option. ATVs, snowmobiles, off-road motorcycles, manufactured homes, mobile offices, golf carts, and specified farm, emergency, government, and special equipment are exempt.
Application for Registration
Vehicle Registration Application (VSA 14) may be made by mail or in person at any Customer Service Center or DMV Select location. Applicant need not apply in county of residence. Registration must be carried in the vehicle or watercraft. New residents must first title and then register vehicles within 30 days. Motorized watercraft are registered through DWR.
- Military surplus vehicle limited-use registration requires Military Surplus License Plate Applicant Certification (VSA 10M) and $100.00 fee.
- Farm-use pickups, panel trucks, or SUVs claiming registration exemption must obtain a permanent nontransferable farm-use placard for $15.00.
- Registration and plates may be temporarily deactivated online, and liability insurance cancelled. Reactivation fee is $10.00 unless expired or IRP.
- IRP vehicles titled elsewhere may be titled in Virginia for registration purposes only; Virginia issues a title number but holds the title.
IRP
Department of Motor Vehicles, Motor Carrier Services, PO Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269. Phone 804.249.5130; TTY 711 or 800.828.1120; fax 804.367.1058; email iftairp@dmv.virginia.gov. IRP applications are processed and mailed from DMV headquarters unless using VirginiaMCS. EZFleet and EZReg are available through Virginia’s Motor Carrier Portal.
Nonresidents
Nonresident passenger vehicles registered in state or country of residence may be operated in Virginia for six months without Virginia registration, with reciprocity. If vehicle is used for business purposes, it must be registered in Virginia. Nonresident watercraft properly registered in home state may operate in Virginia up to 90 consecutive days without Virginia registration.
Renewal
Renewal reminders are sent. Renewal may be made at any DMV Select Office, by mail, or online. Online renewal receives a $1.00 discount. Watercraft may also be renewed online.
Expiration / Late Fee
Motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers expire on a monthly staggered basis. Watercraft are registered for three years. Late renewal fee is $10.00 if registration is renewed after expiration.
Military Registration
Nonresident active-duty military stationed in Virginia and sole owner of a vehicle may retain out-of-state title/registration or title/register in Virginia. Active-duty military personnel are exempt from personal property tax if legal residence or domicile is outside Virginia; spouses may also be exempt if same domicile and not Virginia resident.
Veteran Benefits
Veterans with 100% service-connected permanent and total disability may qualify for sales/use tax exemption on a vehicle owned and primarily used by the veteran. Veteran Certification of Disability (VSA 54) may be used for registration fee exemption and special plates. Former POWs and Medal of Honor/Purple Heart recipients may receive one free registration.
Special Permits, Plates & Dealer Use
Temporary / Trip Permits
Dealer temporary registration certificates are valid 30 days. Trip Permits allow operation of an unregistered vehicle, valid three days, fee $5.00. IRP/IFTA trip permits are valid 10 days; $15.00 IRP, $20.00 IFTA, $35.00 combined.
Hauling / Overload / Hunter Permits
Hauling permits move overdimensional/overweight vehicles including manufactured homes. Single-trip fee is $20.00 plus mileage fees if applicable. Blanket permits are $100.00 for one year or $200.00 for two years. Superload permit is $30.00 plus applicable mileage/damage fees. Overload permits are $250.00. Hunter’s Permits are valid three months and loads may not be transported.
Plates
Two plates are issued except for mopeds, motorcycles, autocycles, semitrailers, trailers, and truck-tractors. Plates remain with owner and may be transferred using License Plate Application (VSA 10) or surrendered to DMV. Permanent plate/registration surrender may be completed online.
Dealer Plates
Dealer plates may be used for demonstration, delivery, and pleasure. Fee is $60.00 for first two plates and $26.00 each additional plate. Watercraft dealer demonstration number is $25.00; $12.00 each additional number. Out-of-state dealer plates are reciprocal.
Manufacturer Plates
Manufacturer plates may be used for sales/service training, advertising, public relations, quality control, emissions/testing/evaluation, and headquarters-related purposes. Fee is $30.00 for first two plates; $13.00 each additional. Watercraft manufacturer demonstration number is $40.00; $12.00 each additional number.
New Resident Plates
New residents are not required to surrender out-of-state plates when applying for Virginia registration.
Fees, Plates & Registration Costs
Virginia fees vary by title type, watercraft title, lien, registration class, temporary permit, hauling permit, dealer plate, manufacturer plate, safety inspection, local personal property tax, and applicable sales/use tax.
| Common Fee | Amount / Notes |
|---|---|
| Vehicle title | $15.00 |
| Watercraft title | $10.00 |
| Replacement / substitute title | $15.00 |
| Duplicate watercraft title | $7.00 |
| Rebuilt vehicle examination | $125.00 plus $15.00 substitute title fee |
| Assigned VIN application | $5.00 if applicable |
| Abandoned Vehicle Process record request | $40.00; out-of-state abandoned record request $25.00 |
| Trip Permit | $5.00; valid three days |
| IRP / IFTA Trip Permit | $15.00 IRP; $20.00 IFTA; $35.00 combination; valid 10 days |
| Single trip hauling permit | $20.00 plus mileage fees when applicable |
| Blanket hauling permit | $100.00 one year; $200.00 two years, plus applicable mileage/damage fees |
| Superload permit | $30.00 plus applicable mileage/damage fees |
| Overload permit | $250.00 |
| Dealer plates | $60.00 first two; $26.00 each additional |
| Manufacturer plates | $30.00 first two; $13.00 each additional |
Taxes
Motor Vehicle Sales and Use Tax
Virginia motor vehicle sales and use tax is 4.15% based on gross sales price or $75.00, whichever is greater. Manufactured homes are taxed at 3.0%. Mobile offices are taxed at 2.0%. Heavy vehicles may have different rules depending on GVWR or GCWR, use, and registration status.
Tax Documentation
Proof of purchase price is required when purchased within the preceding 12 months. Acceptable proof may include bill of sale, buyer’s order, seller-declared sale price on title, or Vehicle Price Certification (SUT 1).
Estate Transfers
Transfers to a spouse or heir, or transfers under a will, are exempt from sales tax.
Repossession Tax
Repossession title transaction is exempt from sales tax unless the vehicle is being registered.
Military / Veteran
Qualifying veterans with 100% service-connected permanent and total disability may be eligible for sales/use tax exemption on one vehicle owned and primarily used by the veteran. Nonresident active-duty military may be exempt from personal property tax if legal residence/domicile is outside Virginia.
Personal Property Tax
Virginia localities assess personal property taxes. Active-duty military and spouses may qualify for exemptions when domicile is outside Virginia and statutory conditions are met.
Dealer Tax Checklist
Dealer files should retain purchase-price proof, tax calculation, exemption documentation, lien/finance documentation, title application, registration documents, and any military/veteran or estate exemption support.
Official Forms & Resources
Key Virginia DMV, Department of Wildlife Resources, State Police, SCC UCC, title, lien, watercraft, manufactured-home, salvage/rebuilt/nonrepairable, abandoned, repossession, registration, permit, tax, inspection, insurance, military, and dealer resources commonly used for dealer and lender workflows.
General Information
Dealer Workflow
Dealer packets should include VSA 17A or applicable title application, assigned title/MCO, purchase-price proof, lienholder information, odometer disclosure, emissions/safety inspection where required, title/registration fees, and Online Dealer Program documentation for point-of-sale plate, decal, and registration issuance.
Watercraft Workflow
Motorized watercraft and sailboats over 18 feet are titled, and motorized watercraft are registered through DWR. Use BRT-001, BRT-002 for never-titled/registered watercraft, and BRT forms for transfer, duplicate, liens, abandoned watercraft, repossession, and deceased-owner transactions.
Manufactured Homes
Manufactured homes are titled through DMV unless converted to real property using VSA 35. Virginia dealer sales require the additional $30.00 inspection/administrative fee to be forwarded with fees and taxes within 30 days of sale.
ATV / Off-Road Motorcycle Workflow
ATVs and off-road motorcycles over 50cc purchased new on or after July 1, 2006 must be titled. Older or otherwise exempt ATVs/off-road motorcycles may be titled at owner’s option but are generally registration-exempt.
Insurance / Inspection
Virginia registration may be deactivated when a vehicle is not operated and insurance is cancelled. Reactivation requires proof of insurance. Safety inspection may be required, including for rebuilt salvage vehicles before title issuance.
Records
DMV in Richmond maintains vehicle title and lien records. Virginia participates in NMVTIS, supports electronic title option, and requires certain high-volume lienholders to use the Electronic Lien Program.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Fees, requirements, forms, taxes, and procedures may change. Always verify current information with Virginia DMV, Department of Wildlife Resources, Virginia State Police, State Corporation Commission, Motor Carrier Services, or another applicable agency before submitting paperwork or payment.