Virginia Title Transfer Fee Calculator
Transferring a vehicle title in Virginia costs $15 in title fees — but the real cost of a private-party purchase is usually the tax: 4.15% Sales and Use Tax ($75 minimum) on the sales price. For vehicles under 5 years old, a price more than $1,500 below NADA trade-in value needs a notarized SUT-1A affidavit or the DMV taxes book value. Budget the tax on top of the title and plate fees, and transfer within the state's deadline to avoid penalties.
Verified against official Virginia sources on 2026-07-17. How we verify fees.
Your purchase
- Tax on sale4.15% Sales and Use Tax ($75 minimum) on the sales price. For vehicles under 5 years old, a price more than $1,500 below NADA trade-in value needs a notarized SUT-1A affidavit or the DMV taxes book value.$1,452.50
- Title fee$15.00
Estimate only — actual fees are set by your state and county at the time of registration. Data last reviewed 2026-07-17. This state's full local formula is not yet implemented; see the notes below the calculator.
What determines title transfer cost in Virginia?
- Purchase price (tax basis)
- Title fee ($15)
- Tax on private-party sales
- Family/gift exemptions
Frequently asked questions
How much does a title transfer cost in Virginia?
The title fee itself is $15. 4.15% Sales and Use Tax ($75 minimum) on the sales price. For vehicles under 5 years old, a price more than $1,500 below NADA trade-in value needs a notarized SUT-1A affidavit or the DMV taxes book value. Use the calculator above with your purchase price for the full picture.
Do I pay sales tax on a private-party car purchase in Virginia?
Yes — 4.15% Sales and Use Tax ($75 minimum) on the sales price. For vehicles under 5 years old, a price more than $1,500 below NADA trade-in value needs a notarized SUT-1A affidavit or the DMV taxes book value.
Are family transfers or gifted vehicles taxed in Virginia?
Gifts to a spouse, son, daughter, or parent are exempt with a notarized Form SUT-3 (biological/adopted only). Siblings and grandparents are NOT exempt, and an assumed loan balance is taxed except between spouses.
How long do I have to transfer a title in Virginia?
Title within 30 days of the sale; late titling adds a $25 fee plus penalties on unpaid tax.
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Official Virginia resources
Estimates here are informational — the state is the only source of an official quote.
Data last reviewed 2026-07-17.