How to Sell a Car in Virginia

If you’re looking to sell your vehicle in Virginia, you may be wondering about the processes involved in completing the transaction and transferring the title to the new owner. Our team at BMW of Sterling has you covered. In this guide, we’ll break down the steps of selling a car in Virginia and explain the paperwork required by the state.

Sign Over the Title

First, you will need to complete Section A on the front of the title certificate. Fill in the name and address of the buyer, the current odometer reading, and the sales price information in the corresponding fields. Then, sign your name and give the title to the buyer. They should fill in their name and address and also sign the title.

Remove Your License Plates

In Virginia, license plates stay with the seller, so this is the time to remove your plates. A seller who’s bought a replacement vehicle can transfer the plates to their new Loudoun County ride. If you no longer need the plates, you can dispose of them on your own or drop them off at your nearest DMV for recycling.

If there are at least six full months remaining in the vehicle registration period, you may be able to get a partial refund. You’ll have to send the plates to the DMV along with an Application for Vehicle Registration Refund Form, which is DMV form FMS-210. Include a note that the plates are inactive and no longer needed.

Notify the Insurance Company and DMV

Finally, let the vehicle insurer know that you no longer own the vehicle. They can help you transfer coverage to a replacement vehicle if needed. Remember that the state requires liability insurance, so you’ll need to have the minimum coverage amount in place before you can transfer plates or buy new ones. The last step is to inform the DMV that you have sold the vehicle; this can be done online, by phone, or at your local DMV office.

Let BMW of Sterling Simplify the Car-Selling Process

At BMW of Sterling, we aim to make the process of buying or selling a car as easy and stress-free as possible. We will buy your car and handle all the paperwork and red tape involved in the transaction. Contact us or stop by the dealership to get started. We’re located in Sterling, just a short drive from the DC Metro Area and Dulles Airport. In the meantime, brush up on how to sell your car at a dealership.