Virginia DMV Services

🚗 1️⃣ When You Must Apply

• If you buy a vehicle in Virginia or move to Virginia with an out‑of‑state vehicle, you must title it in your name and register it promptly (often within 30 days of purchase or establishing residency).

📄 2️⃣ Required Documents to Title a Vehicle

To apply for a title (proof of ownership), bring:

1. Ownership Evidence

• New car: Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO/MSO) from the dealer.
• Used car (VA‑titled): The existing Virginia title with the “Certification of Buyer” section completed by the seller.
• Out‑of‑state car: The out‑of‑state title signed over to you (or out‑of‑state registration card plus proof of ownership).

1. Completed Title/Registration Form

• Form VSA 17A – Application for Certificate of Title and Registration — used to title the vehicle and register it in one step.

1. Proof of Virginia Address

• Driver license, utility bill, bank statement, lease, etc., showing your Virginia address.

1. Proof of Purchase Price

• Buyer’s order, bill of sale, or the sale price listed on the title.
  • A Vehicle Price Certification (Form SUT‑1) may be used if needed.

1. Odometer Disclosure

• Seller must record the vehicle’s odometer on the title; if not available or from another state, use an Odometer Disclosure Statement.

🪪 3️⃣ Proof of Insurance

• Virginia liability insurance is required before you can register the car. You must maintain this coverage from the moment of registration.

🧾 4️⃣ Inspection Requirements 

Emissions Inspection:

• Required for vehicles kept in certain areas (e.g., Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Stafford counties and some cities), 3 year and older models. A valid emissions certificate may be required before registration.

💰 5️⃣ Taxes 

• 15% Sales Tax based on purchase price + doc fees
• If lease vehicle sates tax is paid upfront
• Trade in allowed
• Not Reciprocal with CA 

🪪 7️⃣ New Virginia Residents / Out‑of‑State Vehicles

If you move to Virginia with a car titled elsewhere:

• Title and register it within 30 days of establishing residency.
• Bring your out‑of‑state title or registration (in your name) and proof of insurance.
• Get required safety and emissions inspections.
• Submit Form VSA 17A and pay tax/fees.

📋 9️⃣ Quick Checklist 

✔ Original title or MCO
✔ Original Odometer
✔ VA insurance
✔ Bill of sale or Purchase order
✔ Copy of contract
✔ Vehicle color
✔ emissions inspection, if applicable
✔ Power of attorney
✔ Driver’s License or EIN/FEIN number
✔ Fees