Register & Title a Motorcycle in West Virginia

This page will cover the street legal requirements and registration and title process in West Virginia and provide some tips on how to register if you bought the motorcycle without a title.

West Virginia Title & Inspection Requirements for Used Motorcycles

• Does West Virginia have an equipment/safety inspection?
  • Periodic inspection required.
• Does West Virginia require VIN Inspections for motorcycles bought out of state?
  • Not required.
• Does West Virginia require a title for old motorcycles?
  • Titles required for all motorcycles.

How to Title and Register a Motorcycle in West Virginia

To register and title your bike in West Virginia, you’ll need:

• Signed over title.
  • Bill of sale and old registration if bought in a state that doesn’t issue titles.
• Notarized bill of sale.
• Application for Certificate of Title
• Title and registration fees.
• Sales tax.

Notarization Required on the following documents in West Virginia:

• Bill of sale.

How to Register a Motorcycle with no title in West Virginia

Option 1: Bikes from WV

Before sale is complete, ask previous owner to get a duplicate title:

• Application for Duplicate Title

Option 2: Bikes from outside West Virginia 

If the motorcycle was bought in a state that requires titles:

• Have the previous owner request a duplicate title in that state.
• Find motorcycle registration and title details for all states here.

Option 3: Register in a No-Title State

Register the bike in a non-title, no residency requirement, mail-in registration application state, such as Vermont.

• Follow the registration requirements in Vermont.
• Transfer your registration to your own state.

West Virginia Street Legal Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

WV requires street legal motorcycles to have:

• Rearview mirror.
• Handlebars no higher than 15” above seat.
• Passenger footrest when riding with passenger.
• Turn signals required for motorcycles manufactured after 1972.
• Odometer required.
• Daytime headlights.

This information was correct at the time of writing it, but state laws are subject to change.

More West Virginia Motorcycle Resources

• How to Get a Motorcycle License in West Virginia
• How to Get Cheaper Motorcycle Insurance
• Free Bill of Sale