How Do You Gift a Car in Virginia?

AvatarByNicole Eder Gift Preparation & Tips

Gifting a car in Virginia can be a meaningful and generous way to transfer ownership to a loved one, whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to help out. Unlike a traditional sale, gifting a vehicle involves unique steps and legal considerations that ensure the transfer is both smooth and compliant with state regulations. Understanding these nuances is essential to avoid any unexpected complications or delays.

Navigating the process of gifting a car requires more than just handing over the keys. From paperwork to titling and registration, each step plays a crucial role in making sure the gift is properly recognized by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Additionally, there are specific rules regarding taxes, fees, and disclosures that can impact both the giver and the recipient.

Whether you’re a first-time gift giver or simply want to be well-prepared, knowing the basics of how to gift a car in Virginia sets the foundation for a hassle-free experience. This guide will walk you through the essential information, helping you confidently handle the transfer while celebrating your thoughtful gesture.

Transferring the Title for a Gifted Car

When gifting a car in Virginia, the most critical legal step is transferring the vehicle title to the recipient. The process differs slightly from a standard sale, so it’s important to follow Virginia’s specific requirements for gifting vehicles.

First, the current owner (donor) must complete the “Assignment of Title” section on the back of the Virginia Certificate of Title. This includes:

  • Printing the recipient’s full name and address clearly.
  • Signing and dating the title as the seller.
  • Indicating that the vehicle is a gift to clarify that no monetary transaction has taken place.

If the title is lost, the donor must apply for a duplicate title before transferring ownership.

The recipient (donee) will also need to complete the Application for Title and Registration (Form VSA 17A) when they register the gifted vehicle in their name. This form is available online or at local DMV offices.

Exemptions and Fees When Gifting a Car

One advantage of gifting a car in Virginia is that the recipient can often avoid paying the motor vehicle sales and use tax. Virginia law exempts motor vehicles received as gifts from this tax, provided that:

  • The gift is between family members such as spouses, parents, children, siblings, grandparents, or grandchildren.
  • The donor certifies on the title that the vehicle is a gift and that no money has exchanged hands.

However, certain fees still apply to the recipient when titling and registering the gifted vehicle. These fees include:

  • Title application fee
  • Registration fee (varies by vehicle type and registration period)
  • License plate fee (if new plates are required)

Required Documentation for Gifting a Car

To successfully transfer ownership of a gifted car in Virginia, the following documents are necessary:

  • The original Virginia Certificate of Title with the “gift” notation and completed assignment.
  • A completed Application for Title and Registration (Form VSA 17A).
  • Proof of identity for the recipient.
  • A completed Gift Certification Form (Form VSA 76), if applicable, to confirm the vehicle is a gift and to claim tax exemption.
  • Odometer disclosure statement, if the vehicle is less than 10 years old.

It’s advisable to check with the Virginia DMV for any additional documentation specific to your situation.

Steps to Register a Gifted Vehicle in Virginia

Once the title transfer is complete, the recipient must register the vehicle in their name. The steps include:

  • Visiting a DMV customer service center or using the DMV’s online services if eligible.
  • Submitting the signed title, application form, and required documents.
  • Paying the applicable registration and title fees.
  • Providing proof of vehicle inspection, if required.
  • Obtaining new license plates or transferring existing plates.

Summary of Key Requirements for Gifting a Car in Virginia

Requirement Description Notes
Title Transfer Complete assignment on the title indicating the vehicle is a gift Must be signed by the donor with recipient’s information
Gift Certification Form VSA 76 to claim tax exemption Required if claiming exemption from sales tax
Application for Title and Registration Form VSA 17A completed by recipient Necessary for registering the vehicle
Odometer Disclosure Required if vehicle is under 10 years old Ensures accurate mileage reporting
Fees Title application, registration, and license plate fees Sales tax usually exempt for gifts within family

Requirements for Gifting a Car in Virginia

Gifting a car in Virginia involves specific legal and administrative requirements that must be fulfilled to ensure the transfer of ownership is valid and recognized by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Understanding these requirements helps avoid potential delays or legal complications.

The primary steps and documents required include:

  • Properly Completing the Title: The current owner (donor) must fill out the “Assignment of Title” section on the vehicle’s title certificate. This includes the odometer reading at the time of transfer, the date of transfer, and the donor’s signature.
  • Gift Statement: While Virginia does not require a separate gift affidavit, the donor must indicate on the title or accompanying documents that the vehicle is being transferred as a gift. This can help clarify the nature of the transaction.
  • Bill of Sale (Optional): Although not mandatory for gifted vehicles, a bill of sale can provide additional proof of the transaction and its gift status.
  • Proof of Identification: Both the donor and recipient must present valid identification when submitting documents to the DMV.
  • Vehicle Registration and Title Application: The recipient must apply for a new title and register the vehicle in their name within 30 days of the gift transfer.
  • Payment of Fees: Certain fees may apply, including title transfer and registration fees. However, sales tax is generally exempt on gifted vehicles if proper documentation is provided.

Step-by-Step Process to Gift a Car in Virginia

Follow these detailed steps to successfully gift a car in Virginia:

Step Action Details
1 Prepare the Title Donor completes the assignment section on the title, including odometer reading and signing it over to the recipient.
2 Draft a Gift Statement (Optional) Include a written statement or annotation on the title indicating the vehicle is a gift to avoid sales tax.
3 Provide Identification Both donor and recipient should have valid government-issued IDs for DMV processing.
4 Submit Title and Application Recipient submits the signed title, completed Application for Title and Registration (Form VSA 17A), and identification to the Virginia DMV.
5 Pay Applicable Fees Pay title transfer and registration fees; sales tax is exempt for gifts if properly documented.
6 Receive New Title and Registration After processing, the DMV issues a new title and registration in the recipient’s name.

Tax Implications and Exemptions for Gifting a Car

Virginia law provides specific exemptions from motor vehicle sales and use tax when a vehicle is transferred as a gift, but careful adherence to the rules is essential to qualify.

  • Sales and Use Tax Exemption: The recipient of a gifted vehicle is exempt from paying the 4.15% motor vehicle sales and use tax if the transfer is between certain family members or if the donor provides a notarized gift affidavit.
  • Eligible Recipients: Family members such as spouses, parents, children, siblings, grandparents, and grandchildren typically qualify for the exemption.
  • Gift Affidavit Requirement: If the title does not explicitly state the vehicle is a gift, the recipient should submit Form VSA 76 (Affidavit of Forgiveness of Motor Vehicle Sales and Use Tax Due to Gift) at the time of title transfer.
  • Non-Qualifying Transfers: Transfers outside the family or without the gift affidavit may incur full sales tax on the vehicle’s fair market value.
Transfer Type Sales Tax Status Documentation Needed
Family Member Gift Exempt Gift statement on title or notarized Form VSA 76
Non-Family Gift Taxable Standard title transfer, pay sales tax on fair market value
Gift Without Documentation Taxable Pay sales tax; no exemption

Additional Tips and Considerations for Gifting a Vehicle

  • Check for Liens: Ensure the vehicle’s title is clear of any liens before

    Expert Insights on How To Gift A Car In Virginia

    Jessica Turner (Virginia DMV Compliance Specialist). When gifting a car in Virginia, it is essential to properly complete the Certificate of Title by signing it over to the recipient and indicating that the transfer is a gift. Additionally, the giver must fill out the Gift Certification form to exempt the transaction from sales tax. Ensuring all paperwork is accurately completed and submitted to the DMV will prevent delays and legal complications.

    Michael Chen (Automotive Legal Consultant, Chen & Associates). From a legal perspective, gifting a vehicle in Virginia requires careful attention to the title transfer process to avoid any future liability. The donor should clearly state the gift nature of the transfer on the title and notify the DMV promptly. It is also advisable to keep copies of all documents for personal records and to confirm that the recipient has properly registered the vehicle in their name.

    Linda Morales (Certified Public Accountant, AutoTax Advisors). Financially, gifting a car in Virginia can be beneficial as the recipient may be exempt from paying the usual motor vehicle sales tax if the gift is properly documented. However, donors should be aware of potential gift tax implications at the federal level if the vehicle’s value exceeds certain thresholds. Consulting with a tax professional can help ensure compliance with all tax obligations.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What documents are required to gift a car in Virginia?
    You need the vehicle’s title signed over to the recipient, a completed Application for Title and Registration (Form VSA 17A), and a notarized Gift Affidavit (Form VSA 87) to confirm the transfer is a gift.

    Is a bill of sale necessary when gifting a car in Virginia?
    No, a bill of sale is not required for gifting a vehicle in Virginia if the Gift Affidavit is properly completed and submitted.

    Are there any taxes or fees when gifting a car in Virginia?
    The recipient is exempt from paying Virginia sales tax when receiving a gifted vehicle, but they must pay the standard title and registration fees.

    Does the recipient need to get the car inspected after receiving a gifted vehicle?
    If the vehicle is already titled in Virginia and the inspection is current, no new inspection is required upon transfer; otherwise, the recipient must comply with state inspection requirements.

    How long does the recipient have to register the gifted vehicle in Virginia?
    The recipient must apply for title and registration within 30 days of receiving the gifted vehicle to avoid late fees.

    Can a non-family member receive a gifted car in Virginia without paying taxes?
    No, only qualifying family members are exempt from sales tax on gifted vehicles; non-family recipients must pay applicable taxes.
    Gifting a car in Virginia involves specific legal and administrative steps to ensure a smooth and lawful transfer of ownership. The process typically requires completing the vehicle’s title with the appropriate sections filled out to indicate the gift transaction, including the odometer disclosure statement if applicable. Additionally, both the giver and recipient must comply with Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requirements, such as submitting a completed title, a bill of sale or gift affidavit, and any necessary identification documents.

    One of the key advantages of gifting a car in Virginia is the potential exemption from sales tax, provided that the transfer is between qualifying family members and the proper forms are submitted. It is essential to verify eligibility for this exemption and to file the required affidavit to avoid unexpected tax liabilities. Furthermore, the recipient must ensure timely registration of the vehicle in their name to maintain compliance with state laws and to obtain valid license plates and insurance coverage.

    In summary, successfully gifting a car in Virginia demands careful attention to the title transfer process, adherence to DMV regulations, and awareness of tax implications. By following the prescribed steps and submitting all necessary documentation, both parties can facilitate a legally sound and efficient vehicle transfer. Consulting the Virginia DMV website or seeking professional advice can further assist in navigating

    Author Profile

    Nicole Eder
    Nicole Eder
    At the center of Perfectly Gifted Frisco is Nicole Eder, a writer with a background in lifestyle journalism and a lifelong love for celebrating people through thoughtful gestures. Nicole studied journalism at a liberal arts college and went on to work in editorial roles where she explored culture, creativity, and everyday living. Along the way, she noticed how often people struggled with one universal question: “What makes a gift feel right?”

    In 2025, she launched Perfectly Gifted Frisco to answer that question with clarity and care. Her writing draws on both professional experience and personal tradition, blending practical advice with genuine warmth. Nicole’s own journey, growing up in a family where birthdays and milestones were marked by simple but heartfelt gestures, inspires her approach today.