Use our Washington Vehicle Bill of Sale to record the sale of a vehicle and protect both buyer and seller.
Updated May 16, 2023
Written by Sara Hostelley | Reviewed by Brooke Davis
A Washington motor vehicle bill of sale is one of several documents you will need when registering your new vehicle in the state. The form ensures that the sale and purchase of motor vehicles are legal. A bill of sale generally includes a description of the vehicle, the transaction details, and the names of the buyer and seller.
If you sold, gifted, or donated your vehicle to someone else, you’ll need to file a report of sale.
Washington state law mandates that buyers record a transfer of vehicle ownership with the state within 15 days of purchase, and failure to do so can result in fines.
Sellers have only five days from the date of the sale to submit a completed Washington Vehicle Bill of Sale in person to any vehicle licensing office, online, or via mail.
For first-time registration of vehicles purchased for operation in Washington, you must register them in person at the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). You must bring the necessary documents when visiting your local Washington licensing office.
Renewing vehicle registration is required annually, and you can do this in person or online.
You can visit the Washington Vehicle Registration page for more information about WA registration renewal, duplicate registration, replacements & changes, WA auto insurance requirements, and WA military member registration.
When purchasing a vehicle directly from a dealership in Washington, the dealership will transfer the vehicle’s title into your name for you. However, for purchases from out-of-state dealers or private individuals, you are responsible for transferring the title by completing and submitting the following to the state:
Complete a motor vehicle power of attorney form if you want to designate someone else to make administrative decisions regarding your vehicle.
Below you will find our free, printable Washington Vehicle Bill of Sale Form for your personal use. It’s available as a PDF or Word document.
As of January 1, 2023, you can remove your address from the bottom of your registration paperwork for privacy protection.
Create Your Washington Vehicle Bill of Sale in Minutes!