Documents / Bill of Sale / Virginia
Virginia Bill of Sale
Transfer ownership of a vehicle, equipment, or other personal property — with title warranty and as-is terms. Built for Virginia, with the state-specific points that actually change what your document should say.
What Virginia law changes
Virginia requires the buyer to title and register the vehicle within a set period, and the DMV assesses a motor vehicle sales and use tax based on the sale price or a minimum valuation. The bill of sale is what substantiates the price you paid.
The seller should keep a copy and, where applicable, return the plates to the DMV. Virginia plates stay with the seller rather than the vehicle.
Check current figures before you sign. Deposit caps, notice periods and filing deadlines change with each legislative session. For the current position in Virginia, see Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act guidance.
About this document
A bill of sale is the receipt-plus-contract for selling personal property — vehicles most commonly, but also equipment, boats, instruments, or furniture. It proves the transfer happened, on what date, for how much, and in what condition ('as-is' or with stated warranties), which protects the seller from later liability and the buyer from title surprises.
For vehicles, federal law requires an odometer disclosure on transfer, and most states require the title to be signed over and the sale reported to the DMV within a set window — some require notarization. Quill's vehicle version includes the odometer certification and DMV checklist.
Common questions
Do both parties sign a bill of sale?+
Best practice is yes — seller and buyer — so both acknowledge the price, condition, and transfer. Some states technically require only the seller's signature; a few require notarization for vehicles.
What does 'as-is' actually mean?+
The buyer accepts the item in its current condition with all faults, and the seller disclaims warranties (except the promise that they actually own it free of liens). Courts uphold clear as-is clauses, which is why Quill sets them out in capitals.
Is a bill of sale the same as the vehicle title?+
No. The title is the state's ownership record; the bill of sale documents the transaction. You typically need both — the bill of sale supports the price for sales-tax purposes and protects you until the DMV processes the title transfer.
Bill of Sale in other states
Not your state? The general bill of sale asks which state governs it and adapts accordingly — every US state is supported.
General information about Virginia law, not legal advice. Financial documents can carry state-specific formalities; for anything high-value or contested, have a licensed Virginia attorney review it.