Virginia trailer — quick answer
In Virginia, a trailer bill of sale is situational and notarization of the title transfer is situational. The state form used for titled vehicles is SUT 1A. Titling and registration are handled by the Virginia DMV.
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Virginia?
Situational. A bill of sale can be handwritten. For vehicles 5 years old or newer, a notarized SUT 1A is used to certify the price for tax.
Seller assigns the title; the buyer titles and registers at the Virginia DMV (often available online).
Does a Virginia trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Situational (situational). Notarization is required for the SUT 1A (vehicles 5 years old or newer, to certify a below-average price). The title itself is not notarized.
What to include on a Virginia trailer bill of sale
- Buyer and seller names and addresses
- Year, make, and trailer type
- VIN or serial number
- Length, number of axles, and empty weight
- Price, date, and signatures
How to transfer a trailer in Virginia
- 1Complete the bill of sale and title assignment.
Record the buyer, seller, price, and date. Both parties sign and date.
- 2Hand over the signed title.
Seller assigns the title; the buyer titles and registers at the Virginia DMV (often available online).
- 3Register with the Virginia DMV.
The buyer titles and registers the trailer, bringing Purchase Price Certification (SUT 1) / Affidavit (SUT 1A). Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the Virginia DMV before you sign. Not legal advice.
Virginia Trailer Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Virginia?
A bill of sale is situational in Virginia. A bill of sale can be handwritten. For vehicles 5 years old or newer, a notarized SUT 1A is used to certify the price for tax.
Does a Virginia trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Sometimes. Notarization is required for the SUT 1A (vehicles 5 years old or newer, to certify a below-average price). The title itself is not notarized.
Do I need to title a trailer?
It depends on the trailer’s weight and your state. Heavier trailers usually require a title and registration; many small utility trailers only need registration. Check your state page.
What if my trailer has no VIN?
Homemade or older trailers may need a state inspection to be assigned a VIN before they can be titled. The bill of sale still documents the sale in the meantime.
Is a bill of sale proof of ownership?
Generally no. For titled property like a car or boat, the title is what proves ownership. A bill of sale proves that a sale happened and records the price, date, and terms — it supports the title transfer but does not replace it. For untitled property (furniture, equipment, electronics), the signed bill of sale is usually the main proof of ownership.