How to Sell a Car in Virginia

Selling a used car is often a complicated procedure. Not only does the seller have to go through the trouble of finding a buyer -- which will generally involve listing the car, showing it to prospective buyers, and answering a slew of questions -- but, once he has found someone to purchase the car, he has to fill out the required paperwork. Fortunately, in the state of Virginia, the paperwork required to sell a car is fairly minimal. Those seeking to sell their vehicle need only a few basic pieces of paper.

Instructions

1

Fill out a bill of sale. While not legally required in the state of Virginia, it's generally a good idea when selling a car to make sure that both parties sign a bill of sale. The bill of sale should specify the car being sold -- including VIN, make, model, year, and odometer reading -- and should then be signed and dated by both parties, who should include their printed names and addresses. These forms are available from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Make a copy so each party can keep one for their records.

2

Sign over the title of the car. On section A of the title to the car, sign your name, and write the date and your address in the space designated for the seller. Below that, write the current odometer reading of the vehicle. Then, write the amount the car sold for in the space marked "Sales Price." After, have the buyer write his name, address and the date, and then sign it.

3

Remove your license plates. If you have recently purchased a car, you can transfer the plates to another vehicle; just be sure to let the DMV know. However, if you have six months or more on your registration, you can turn in the plate to the DMV for a prorated refund. You can do this by filling out the Application for Vehicle Registration Refund and sending it into the DMV.

4

Notify the DMV and your insurance company. After you have sold the car, you must contact the DMV and let the agency know that the car has been sold. Although you can do this in person, you can also alert the DMV by phone or online. Contact information for the DMV is in the Resources section. Also let your insurance company know that you have sold the car.