The Title That Never Came
Va. Code 46.2-1542 — temporary tags for 30 days, and the right to return the vehicle for a full refund if the dealer cannot deliver title
Temporary registration. A dealer's temporary certificate of registration ends when the title is issued in the buyer's name, and in no event is effective for more than 30 days from its issuance.
The right to return it. If the dealer fails to produce the old title or certificate of origin, or to apply for a replacement, so that title cannot be delivered before the temporary registration expires, the buyer may return the vehicle and obtain a full refund of all payments, by notifying the dealer before a title is issued.
What may be deducted. The refund may be reduced by damage to the vehicle while the buyer had it, and a reasonable amount for use not exceeding one-half the IRS business mileage rate.
A second temporary certificate. If the dealer has not delivered the title within 30 days, a second temporary certificate may be issued, provided the dealer delivers the title application, bill of sale, fees and a written statement of its efforts to the Department.
A particular sale is a question for the state's motor vehicle agency, its dealer licensing board, or a licensed Virginia attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- Va. Code 46.2-1542 — Temporary registration
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Virginia attorney.