West Virginia trailer — quick answer
In West Virginia, a trailer bill of sale is situational and notarization of the title transfer is situational. The state form used for titled vehicles is DMV-7-TR. Titling and registration are handled by the West Virginia DMV.
Is a trailer bill of sale required in West Virginia?
Situational. A notarized bill of sale (DMV-7-TR) is required specifically when the purchase price is below 50% of NADA Clean Loan value (for tax).
Seller assigns the title; the buyer titles and registers at the WV DMV.
Does a West Virginia trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Situational (situational). Common myth: WV is widely mis-cited as a blanket notary state. Notarization is triggered by the low-price/tax condition (price under 50% of NADA value).
What to include on a West 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 West 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 WV DMV.
- 3Register with the West Virginia DMV.
The buyer titles and registers the trailer, bringing Bill of Sale for a Motor Vehicle, Trailer, or Boat. Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the West Virginia DMV before you sign. Not legal advice.
West Virginia Trailer Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a trailer bill of sale required in West Virginia?
A bill of sale is situational in West Virginia. A notarized bill of sale (DMV-7-TR) is required specifically when the purchase price is below 50% of NADA Clean Loan value (for tax).
Does a West Virginia trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Sometimes. Common myth: WV is widely mis-cited as a blanket notary state. Notarization is triggered by the low-price/tax condition (price under 50% of NADA value).
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.