West Virginia Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template
Selling or purchasing a vehicle in West Virginia? A bill of sale is more than just a form – it’s proof of the transaction. It helps safeguard both buyers and sellers from legal issues and also comes in handy during vehicle registrations.
What is the West Virginia Bill of Sale?
In private sales, a bill of sale is important since buyers and sellers manage the transaction without third-party oversight. It provides legal proof of the sale, recording important details like the purchase price, date, vehicle information, and basically everything about the transaction.
Even when buying from a dealership, a bill of sale adds an extra layer of security. It helps prevent disputes, clarifies the terms of the sale, and serves as a backup record in case any issues arise later.
Why do You Need a West Virginia Bill of Sale?
The bill of sale is an important document for both the seller and the buyer. Here are the reasons why:
For Seller
For the seller, it’s crucial to get the bill of sale in West Virginia. Here are the reasons why:
- A West Virginia bill of sale confirms the sale and proves you’re no longer responsible for the vehicle once it’s sold.
- It protects you from future liabilities such as parking tickets, toll violations, or accidents involving the vehicle.
- Since buyers have 30 days to transfer the title, the bill of sale records the sale date and helps you avoid potential legal or financial issues.
- Most bills of sale include “as-is” statements, protecting you from claims or disputes about the vehicle’s condition after the sale.
For Buyers
Not only the seller, but buyers also need a bill of sale in West Virginia for the following reasons:
- The bill of sale serves as legal proof of ownership, especially useful if there’s a delay in the title transfer process.
- It helps prevent disputes about who owns the vehicle and can be used to confirm the agreed sale terms.
- The document may be required for registration or insurance, making it essential for completing the ownership transfer.
- It also acts as a record of purchase price and sale date, useful for taxes, resale, or resolving legal matters later on.
The Types of West Virginia Bill of Sale
West Virginia provides specific bill of sale forms for vehicles, boats, and firearms, along with a general bill of sale for other personal property. The official form for vehicles, boats, and trailers is DMV-7-TR, which must be notarised and include key details like the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), sale price, and buyer and seller information.
- Vehicle/Boat/Trailer Bill of Sale (DMV-7-TR): The official state form required for titling and registration. It must be signed by both the buyer and seller and notarised to be valid.
- Firearm Bill of Sale: Used to document the lawful transfer of ownership of a gun between private parties.
- General Bill of Sale: A flexible form used for selling personal property items such as electronics, furniture, or equipment not covered by a specific bill of sale form.
What Does the West Virginia Bill of Sale Contain?
A well-prepared bill of sale is more than just a receipt; it’s a detailed record of the transaction. It should include:
- Buyer and seller information: Full names and addresses
- Vehicle details: Make, model, year, VIN, and mileage
- Sale price: The agreed-upon amount
- Date of sale: The official transfer date
- Signatures: Required from both parties for validity
These key details provide solid proof of the sale, helping prevent disputes or misunderstandings.
How to Register a Vehicle in West Virginia
To register a car in West Virginia, visit a local WV DMV office or license service agency with the required documents. You’ll need the signed vehicle title, a completed title application, and payment for all fees and taxes. Be prepared to show proof of identity, your Social Security number, and proof of West Virginia residency. New residents must also get their vehicle inspected within 10 days of titling.
Before You Go
- Gather necessary documents: Bring the signed vehicle title, your driver’s license or another proof of identity, your Social Security number, and proof of WV residence.
- Prepare for fees: Be ready to pay the title and registration fees, plus a 5% title tax (or a $30 flat fee if the purchase price is under $500). If there’s a lien, an additional $10 lien fee applies.
At the DMV or License Agency
- Apply: Complete and turn in the Application for Certificate of Title for a Motor Vehicle (DMV-1-TR).
- Provide the title: Submit the signed title. Vehicles over 10 years old may also require an odometer reading.
- Pay all fees: Pay the necessary taxes, title, and registration fees.
- Get your registration: Once processed, you’ll receive your new license plates or transfer existing ones.
After Registration
- Complete the inspection: If you’ve just moved to West Virginia, you must get your vehicle inspected within 10 days of receiving your title.
West Virginia VIN Check – Verify Vehicle History Before You Buy
Plan to buy a used vehicle? Be sure to check the VIN and get the report before you decide to purchase the vehicle. Check the specifications and the records, like accident, auction, damage, and warranty coverage..
Mileage History
Title Brand
Ownership History
Warranty Status
Sales History
Salvage Title
Usage History
Repair Cost
Auction History
Hail Damage
Ownership Duration
Recalls History
Accident History
Flood Damage
Lien & Loans
Maintenance Schedule
Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale by State
Bill of sale requirements vary by state. Click below to download a template specific to your state.
Frequently Asked Questions about West Virginia Bill of Sale
Does West Virginia require a bill of sale?
A bill of sale is not always required in West Virginia, but it is recommended as proof of the transaction. However, if the title does not have a designated section for the purchase price, a bill of sale may be necessary for tax purposes.
Can a bill of sale be handwritten in West Virginia?
Yes, a handwritten bill of sale is acceptable in West Virginia as long as it includes key details like the buyer and seller’s names, vehicle information (make, model, year, and VIN), sale price, date of sale, and signatures.
Does a vehicle bill of sale need to be notarised in West Virginia?
Yes, in West Virginia, a vehicle bill of sale usually needs to be notarised, particularly for private transactions. The official WV bill of sale form (DMV-7-TR) requires notarization if the sale price is less than 50% of the vehicle’s book value, and it is typically a mandatory step for title transfers between individual buyers and sellers.
