West Virginia Bill of Sale Template for Cars, Trucks, Trailers, and Boats
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.
Whether buying from a private seller or a dealership, this document ensures a clear transfer of ownership with well-defined terms. Get a West Virginia bill of sale for free!
What is the West Virginia Bill of Sale For?
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.
Get a Vehicle History Report in West Virginia or a Window Sticker
Before finalizing your purchase, wouldn’t you want to know the real condition of the vehicle? While a bill of sale confirms the sale, it won’t expose hidden issues like accident records, theft records, liens, loans, and more. That’s why checking a vehicle history report is essential.
What Details Are Included in the Vehicle History Report?
A VIN check from Detailed Vehicle History offers a detailed look into the vehicle’s background. Here’s what your report will include.
- Mileage
- Ownership History
- Sales History
- Usage History
- Accident History
- Lien & Loans
- Recalls History
- Flood Damage
- Title Brand
- Warranty Status
- Salvage Title
- Repair Cost
- Hail Damage
- Ownership Duration
- Accident History
- Maintenance Schedule
Another useful tool is a window sticker! Sellers can showcase their vehicle’s original features with a window sticker. It details standard and optional features, packages, MSRP, safety ratings, and more.
Easily present accurate vehicle details with our window sticker lookup tool!
What's Included in a Window Sticker?
Our window sticker lookup provides all original factory details for your vehicle.
- MSRP & Pricing
- Optional Equipment
- Warranty Details
- Engine Specs
- Exterior Features
- Color Codes
- Standard Features
- Safety Ratings
- Fuel Economy
- Interior Features
- Packages & Options
- Manufacturing Info
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.
Why You Need a Bill of Sale?
Why Sellers Need a Bill of Sale
Selling a car in West Virginia? The last thing you want is to be responsible for anything that happens after it leaves your hands. A West Virginia bill of sale confirms the sale and proves you’re no longer the owner. Without it, you might still receive parking tickets or toll violations linked to the vehicle.
It’s especially useful if the buyer delays the title transfer. In West Virginia, buyers have 30 days to transfer the title to avoid late fees. A bill of sale records the sale date, helping protect you from legal or financial issues.
Also, most bills of sales come with as-is statements, so sellers stay protected from potential legal issues after a sale.
Why Buyers Need a Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is more than just a document – it’s proof of ownership and protection if any issues arise. If there’s a delay in the title transfer, it confirms that the vehicle is legally yours.
It also helps prevent disputes and may be necessary for registration, securing insurance, or handling legal and financial matters after the sale.
What to Check Before Buying a Car!
Shopping for a used car? Don’t let hidden problems turn a great deal into a costly mistake. Issues like flood damage or odometer fraud can be serious risks. Be sure to watch for these warning signs before making your purchase!
Flood Damage Check
Check for past flood exposure that could lead to major mechanical failures.
Odometer Rollback Report
Verify the mileage to avoid paying more for a car with hidden wear and tear.
License Plate Lookup
See past ownership details, registration status, and any red flags with a license plate lookup.
Service Records
Review maintenance history to ensure the car has been properly cared for.
Title History Check
Confirm there are no liens, salvage titles, or undisclosed problems.
Stolen Record Check
Check for theft records and avoid stolen vehicles and legal issues.
Spending a few minutes reviewing a vehicle’s history can help you avoid costly problems later.
How to Register a Vehicle in West Virginia
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before heading to the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), make sure you have:
- Signed Title – The seller must properly sign it over to you.
- Valid ID – A West Virginia-issued driver’s license or ID.
- Proof of Insurance – Required for registration.
- VIN Inspection – Needed for out-of-state vehicles (can be completed at the DMV or a dealership).
- Registration Fees – Costs vary based on vehicle type and location.
Step 2: Visit the DMV
Go to your nearest West Virginia DMV office with all required documents.
Step 3: Register Your Car
At the DMV, complete the registration by:
- Submitting your paperwork
- Paying the registration fees
- Receiving your license plates and registration sticker
Step 4: Transfer the Title
Ensure the vehicle title is officially transferred to your name. West Virginia law requires this to be done within 30 days to avoid late fees.
Step 5: Keep Your Documents Safe
Once registered, store your title, registration, and license plates securely.
How to Register a Vessel in West Virginia
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
To prevent delays, have the following paperwork ready:
- Bill of Sale – Proof of purchase signed by both buyer and seller.
- Boat Title – Required for vessels 15 feet or longer.
- Valid ID – A West Virginia-issued driver’s license or ID.
- Proof of Payment – Receipt for registration fees.
- HIN Verification – Some boats require a Hull Identification Number (HIN) check.
Step 2: Visit a West Virginia Boat Registration Office
Take your documents to a West Virginia DMV office or an authorized boat registration agent.
Step 3: Register Your Boat
Complete the registration by:
- Submitting your paperwork
- Paying the registration fees
- Receiving your boat registration number and decals
Step 4: Keep Your Registration Current
West Virginia boat registrations must be renewed every three years, so be sure to stay up to date to avoid penalties.
Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale by State
Bill of sale requirements differ by state. Click below to get the template tailored to your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 notarized in West Virginia?
Yes, in West Virginia, a bill of sale for a vehicle must be notarized to be considered legally valid.