How West Virginia Handles Manufactured Home Titles
In West Virginia, the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV) is responsible for issuing and transferring manufactured home titles. West Virginia processes manufactured home titles through the Division of Motor Vehicles. WV has a relatively straightforward process, but the state also has a separate manufactured housing program under the Division of Labor that handles installation permits and inspections for homes being newly installed or moved.
Before filing anything, call WV DMV at (304) 558-3900 and describe your situation. Their staff can confirm which current form version you need and whether your documents are complete — a 10-minute call that prevents weeks of delay from a rejected submission.
Required Forms
| Form | Purpose |
|---|---|
| DMV-1-TR | West Virginia Application for Certificate of Title |
| DMV-4-LN | Lien Release / Satisfaction Form |
| Lien Release (lender form) | Required if a lender is listed on the current title — must be obtained from the lender and submitted with the transfer |
| Heirship / Small Estate Affidavit | Used when transferring after the owner’s death if the estate qualifies under West Virginia’s small estate threshold |
Step-by-Step: Standard Sale Transfer
- Obtain the current title from the seller — The seller’s name on the title must match their government-issued ID exactly. Check for any lienholder listed on the front of the title document.
- Have the seller sign the title assignment section — The seller signs the back of the title in the designated assignment area. If two names appear on the title, both must sign unless the title specifies survivorship rights (e.g., “or” vs. “and”).
- Resolve any liens — If a lender is listed, obtain a signed lien release before filing. WV DMV will not issue a clean title while an active lien is recorded.
- Complete the transfer application (DMV-1-TR) — Fill in all required fields. Download the current version from the agency’s official website on the day you file — forms change periodically.
- Submit to WV DMV — File in person at the appropriate office or by mail. Include all forms, the original signed title, and payment.
- Receive new title — WV DMV issues a new title in the buyer’s name. Store it securely — replacement titles take additional time and fees.
Fee Schedule (2025)
| Transaction Type | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard title transfer (sale) | $10 title fee |
| Duplicate / replacement title | Typically $10–$50 |
| Estate / heirship transfer | Same as standard transfer fee |
| Lien filing (new lender) | $2–$15 |
| Estimated total | $35–$90 |
Always confirm current fees with WV DMV at (304) 558-3900 before filing — fee schedules change.
Timeline in West Virginia
WV DMV regional offices: 1–5 business days in-person. Mail: 3–6 weeks.
Documents Required for Every Transfer
- Current title document (original — not a photocopy)
- Completed DMV-1-TR (downloaded from WV DMV website on day of filing)
- Government-issued photo ID for all signing parties
- Lien release from lender (if lienholder listed on title)
- Payment for fees
- For estate transfers: certified death certificate + signed heirship affidavit
Frequently Asked Questions
A state inspection is not required by the DMV for a title transfer between private parties. However, if the home is being moved to a new site, a WV Division of Labor installation permit is required. If financing is involved, the lender will likely require an appraisal.
West Virginia allows a small estate affidavit for personal property estates under $50,000. This covers most manufactured home estate transfers without requiring probate.
Never pay in full for a home with an active lien without a formal arrangement to clear it. The safest approach is to use an escrow: the seller's loan is paid off from the purchase price at closing, the lender releases the lien simultaneously, and only then does the title transfer to you. Contact WV DMV at (304) 558-3900 to confirm the lien status using the home's serial number before committing to any purchase.
File a duplicate title application with WV DMV using form DMV-1-TR or the state's specific duplicate title form. You will need the home's serial number (found on the HUD data plate inside a cabinet or on the steel chassis frame), your photo ID, and payment of the duplicate fee. If there is a lienholder on the title, most states send the duplicate to the lienholder unless they provide written consent for you to receive it.
Related: After-Death Transfers · Lien Release Guide · Lost Title · Path Finder Tool