Selling a car privately in West Virginia
West Virginia's title transfer is a two-signature job: buyer and seller complete the back of the West Virginia title with names, addresses, date, price, and odometer reading. Current DMV guidance does not require notarizing the title for a routine sale, but check your title's signature block; if it calls for a notary, sign in front of one. Where notarization definitely enters: if the price is below about half of the vehicle's book value, the buyer needs a notarized bill of sale (or DMV form DMV-7-TR with copies of both driver's licenses) or the 6% titling tax is assessed on book value instead.
File the Sold Vehicle or Watercraft Notice (DMV-1-S) after the sale so the DMV records the transfer date on your side. West Virginia plates belong to the seller: remove them and transfer them to your next vehicle or surrender them to the DMV.
The checklist
- 1
Complete the title assignment together (West Virginia)
Both parties fill in names, addresses, date, price, and odometer on the back of the West Virginia title.
- 2
Handle the bill of sale correctly for the price
If the price is below about half of book value, use a notarized bill of sale or DMV form DMV-7-TR with copies of both driver's licenses.
- 3
File the Sold Vehicle Notice (DMV-1-S)
Send the notice to the DMV so the sale date is on record while the buyer completes titling.
- 4
Remove your license plates
West Virginia plates belong to the seller. Take them off and transfer or surrender them.
- 5
Verify your title status
Locate the physical title and confirm it is in your name with no undisclosed liens. If the title is lost, request a duplicate before listing.
- 6
Complete a bill of sale
Recommended for every private sale even where not required. Record buyer/seller names, VIN, price, date, and an as-is acknowledgement. Both parties keep a copy.
- 7
Complete the odometer disclosure
Federal rules require odometer disclosure for most vehicles under 20 model years old. Usually done on the title itself; some states use a separate form.
- 8
File a release of liability / notice of sale
If your state offers it, file promptly after the sale so you are not liable for tickets or incidents after the buyer drives away.
- 9
Handle plates per your state's rules
In most states the seller removes the plates; in some, plates stay with the vehicle. Confirm your state's rule before handing over the keys.
- 10
Pay off any lien before or at transfer
If a lien remains, coordinate payoff with the lender so the buyer can receive a clear title. Do not sign over a title with an unreleased lien.
- 11
Confirm payment before signing the title
Verify cash, or use a cashier's check verified with the issuing bank, or complete the transfer inside the buyer's bank. Never release the signed title before funds are confirmed.
- 12
Keep copies of everything
Photograph or copy the signed title (both sides), bill of sale, odometer disclosure, and the buyer's ID if they consent.
- 13
Check official state instructions
Requirements change. Confirm the current process on your state DMV / motor vehicle agency website before the sale.
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Start your free beta packetWest Virginia private sale FAQ
Does a West Virginia car title need to be notarized?
Usually not under current guidance, but look at your title's signature block and follow it. The document that may need notarizing is the bill of sale, when the price is well below book value.
Why does the price matter so much in West Virginia?
The buyer's 6% titling tax follows the price, but if the price is below roughly half of book value the DMV wants a notarized bill of sale (or its DMV-7-TR form with license copies); otherwise tax is assessed on book value.
What is form DMV-1-S?
West Virginia's Sold Vehicle or Watercraft Notice. Filing it records the sale date and buyer with the DMV while their title work is pending.
Do I keep my plates when I sell a car in West Virginia?
Yes. West Virginia plates stay with the seller. Remove them and transfer or surrender them; do not leave them on the sold vehicle.
Selling a special situation?
Other states
Bold states have a state-specific guide; others use the general checklist.
Last reviewed Jul 13, 2026. This is a general checklist, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with your state DMV or tax office.