A Rhode Island motor vehicle bill of sale form makes it easy to create a proof of purchase for a motor vehicle. This document helps facilitate the change in ownership of a car, motorcycle, truck, or vehicle for purchase. It includes vital information to effectuate the transfer and make the transfer legally binding on the parties.
A bill of sale is required in Rhode Island for any motor vehicle purchase.
Registering a Motor Vehicle
Rhode Island residents must register their vehicles with the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). When a buyer purchases a vehicle at a dealership, the dealer usually handles the registration and titling process on the buyer’s behalf. However, the buyer is responsible for registering and titling the vehicle when they make a private purchase.
Registration must occur within 30 days of the vehicle purchase. [1] Rhode Island mandates re-registration every two years.
Gather Required Documents
The Rhode Island DMV requires the following documents for vehicle registration:
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Proof of Ownership:
- Bill of Sale: Documents the transfer of ownership from one party to another.
- Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin: Necessary when buying from a dealership.
- Certificate of Title: Necessary when engaging in a private purchase of a vehicle that’s 2001 or newer. Must have the title signed over from the seller to the buyer.
- Application for Registration and Certificate of Title (Form TR-1): Must submit to the Rhode Island DMV after purchasing a new or used vehicle.
- Proof of Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage: Show proof of minimum bodily injury insurance coverage ($25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident) and property damage insurance coverage ($25,000 per accident). [2]
- Documentation of Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR): Found on the VIN plate on the driver’s side door.
- Form T-334: Ensures that the use tax is properly calculated and paid for.
- Identity Document: A valid and unexpired identity document, such as a state-issued driver’s license or passport.
Use the state DMV’s checklist to confirm you have the required documents.
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney: Lets an appointed agent handle registration on the vehicle owner’s behalf.
- VIN Check: If a vehicle was previously registered or titled in another state and is 2001 or newer, a local municipal police department must perform a VIN check.
- Passage of an Emissions and Safety Inspection: New vehicles must be inspected within two years of the purchase date or before they accumulate 24,000 miles. Newly registered used vehicles must pass a safety and emissions inspection within five days of the registration date.
Submit Your Documents
When you are ready to register your vehicle, you can appear in person at a local Rhode Island DMV location. You can also complete the registration online, by mail, at any AAA branch if you’re an AAA member, or by placing the forms and fees in a drop box at a DMV location.
If you’re mailing your documents, use the following address:
Cranston Headquarters
600 New London Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920
Pay Registration Fees
Pay all registration fees to the DMV. You can send checks or money orders via mail or place them in on-site drop boxes. You may also use a credit card by mail form to pay via credit card. Consult the DMV fee table for a full list of applicable fees.
Rhode Island Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Sample
Download a Rhode Island motor vehicle bill of sale template in Word and PDF formats below:
