West Virginia Car Bill of Sale: Notarized + Requirements
West Virginia is one of 5 US states that require notarization for vehicle title transfers. Both the title signature and the bill of sale typically need to be notarized.
Is a bill of sale required in West Virginia?
Yes. WV requires a signed bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer, and notarization is required.
Notarization
Required. WV requires notarization for both the title signature and the bill of sale.
State-specific form
WV doesn't publish a single mandatory form. Generic templates with the required fields are acceptable, but must be notarized.
The bill of sale must include:
- Seller's full legal name, address
- Buyer's full legal name, address
- Vehicle year, make, model, body type, VIN
- Odometer reading
- Sale price
- Date of sale
- Both signatures, notarized
Sales tax implications
West Virginia Privilege Tax: 6% of the higher of (sale price OR NADA value, whichever is greater). The buyer pays at the WV DMV at title transfer.
State-specific seller disclosures
- Odometer disclosure: federally required for vehicles under 20 years old
- Notarized bill of sale and title signature: required (WV structural quirk)
- Annual safety inspection: required for WV-registered vehicles
- Salvage title disclosure: required if branded
Where to file
The buyer files at any West Virginia DMV office within 30 days of sale.
For a more complete national reference, see the national bill of sale guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a notarized bill of sale in WV?
Yes. WV is one of 5 US states requiring notarization (along with Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, and New Hampshire).
Does the title also need to be notarized in WV?
Yes.
What's the sales tax on a private car sale in WV?
6% Privilege Tax of the higher of (sale price OR NADA value).
What form do I use?
No single mandatory form. Generic templates with the required fields are acceptable, but must be notarized.
Where do I file the bill of sale in WV?
At any WV DMV office, with the signed (notarized) title and bill of sale. Within 30 days of sale.
Does WV require safety inspection?
Yes — annual safety inspection for WV-registered vehicles.
What if I lost the title in WV?
Apply for a duplicate at the WV DMV.
Should I disclose flaws on the bill of sale?
The "as-is" disclosure covers most. Disclose salvage or rebuilt status and major defects.
Selling a car in West Virginia?
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