How to Get a Title for an Abandoned Vehicle in Virginia
Virginia has a 10–30 days wait period before you can begin the title process. Here is everything a towing company, storage facility, or property owner needs to know.
Quick Reference
Wait Period & Reporting
10–30 days wait required. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
Notifying the Owner
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder
Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
Lienholder Rights
Lienholder must be notified and given time to respond
Failure to notify a lienholder properly can void the entire abandoned vehicle title process.
The Title Application Process
Form/Program: Abandoned Vehicle Title Application
Process varies by state. Typically initiated by a towing company, storage facility, or property owner.
Restrictions & Requirements
- Must follow state-specific notice and wait period requirements
- All liens must be resolved before a clean title can issue
- Storage or towing facility typically must be licensed
Virginia-Specific Note
Virginia-Specific Facts for Abandoned Vehicle Title
Virginia Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In Virginia, the title transfer fee is $15 and registration costs $30.75 - $35.75 per year. Vehicle sales are subject to 4.15% motor vehicle sales and use tax (SUT). Virginia does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. Emission testing is required in Virginia — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.
- 4.15% SUT applies to all vehicle sales
- Annual safety inspection required
- Emissions testing required in Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads
- Title transfer within 30 days of purchase
Virginia sales tax on vehicle purchases
Virginia has a 4.15% state sales tax rate. 4.15% motor vehicle SUT statewide. Private-party vehicle sales in Virginia are subject to sales tax. Motor vehicle sales and use tax applies to all sales. The title transfer fee is $15.
Virginia bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 2,073 bill of sale documents for Virginia transactions, with 56 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More Virginia Vehicle Guides
- Leasing vs Buying in Virginia
- Mechanic's Lien on Vehicle in Virginia
- New Resident Vehicle Registration in Virginia
- Out-of-State Buyer Vehicle in Virginia
- License Plate Transfer in Virginia
- Rebuilt Title Cars in Virginia
Each guide is written specifically for Virginia laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in Virginia?
Virginia requires a 10–30 days wait period. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
How do I notify the owner of an abandoned vehicle in Virginia?
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder. Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
How much does it cost to get an abandoned vehicle title in Virginia?
DMV fees + towing and storage charges. Costs vary widely by state and accumulate with each day in storage.
How long does the abandoned vehicle title process take in Virginia?
45–90 days. Process includes wait periods, notice periods, and DMV processing time.
Does Virginia require a surety bond for an abandoned vehicle title?
Not for the standard process. Some states require a surety bond if the title history is unclear or the vehicle has a prior out-of-state registration.
Selling the Vehicle After You Get Title?
Create a compliant Virginia bill of sale to protect yourself in the transaction.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: State DMV. Abandoned vehicle laws change frequently — verify current wait periods with your state DMV.