Applying for a Car Registration in West Virginia

Obtaining West Virginia vehicle registration and titling credentials is one of the first steps you must take after purchasing or acquiring a new or used automobile. 

After completing this application process, you will receive a new registration card and license plate. This will serve as proof of compliance with the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). 

To apply for a new DMV registration in WV, you can submit your required paperwork in person or by mail. However, the specific application process varies slightly depending on the situation. 

Learn more about these requirements and the steps you must take to register your vehicle in the sections below. 

Getting West Virginia DMV Car Registration Credentials

The West Virginia auto registration application process varies slightly depending on how and where you acquired the new or used vehicle you wish to register with the DMV. 

Download our free guide for more information about the differences in the car registration process. 

To get new car registration credentials for a used automobile, for instance, you can complete the application process in person or by mail.

If you purchase a new vehicle from a West Virginia dealership, the dealer will forward your application materials directly to the DMV.

New Vehicles

When you purchase a new vehicle from a dealership, the dealer will forward your vehicle registration records application directly to the DMV. 

As such, you do not need to submit your registration application to the Division of Motor Vehicles yourself. However, for the registration renewal process, you will be solely responsible for completing the task. 

Used Vehicles

You may wonder, “Where can I apply for a car registration near me after I purchase a used vehicle?” 

After purchasing a used car, truck, minivan or SUV, you must submit your application materials in person or by mail, if there is no lien on the vehicle’s title. 

If there is a lien on the title, however, you must visit a local DMV office to register and title the vehicle in person. 

When registering your newly acquired vehicle with the West Virginia DMV, the documents you must present include:

• The vehicle’s reassigned certificate of title.
• A completed application.
• Payment for any required fees.

Your West Virginia Vehicle Registration Fees

You must pay car registration taxes and fees whenever you register a newly acquired vehicle in West Virginia. 

However, these fees vary depending on the vehicle’s purchase price, model year and whether there is a lien on its title. 

If you purchase a new vehicle from a licensed West Virginia dealer, you must pay these fees before leaving the dealership.

Otherwise, you must pay these fees during your DMV office visit.