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.
Registering a Motor Vehicle
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. [1]
Vehicle owners must re-register their vehicles annually. Washington doesn’t offer a grace period, so you may not drive a vehicle with an expired registration. However, if the registration expires on a legal holiday or a weekend day, the registration will remain valid until the conclusion of the next business day.
Gather Required Documents
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:
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Proof of Ownership:
- Vehicle Title: Signed from the seller to the buyer.
- Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin: Establishes vehicle ownership for new vehicles before they’re titled.
- Bill of Sale (TD-420-065): Proves a transaction occurred between a buyer and a seller.
- Odometer Disclosure Form: Required for vehicles manufactured since 2011 without a current mileage listed on the title. This form can only be obtained in person at a Washington DOL office.
- Vehicle Title Application (Form TD-420-001): Lets you apply for the vehicle’s title.
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Proof of Insurance: Ensures you have adequate coverage in case something happens when you’re driving your vehicle. The minimum requirements are as follows: [2]
- $10,000 of destruction of property in any one accident.
- $25,000 of bodily injury or death of one person in any one accident.
- $50,000 of bodily injury or death of more than one person in any one accident.
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- California Emission Compliance/Exemption Certification (Form TD-420-539): Use this form if you don’t have a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin to prove your vehicle aligns with California’s emissions standards.
- All vehicles manufactured in 2009 or later must meet California’s emissions standards to be registered in Washington.
- Report of Sale: For the seller to fill out if they sold, gifted, or donated the vehicle.
- Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney: Designate someone else to make administrative decisions regarding your vehicle.
Submit Your Documents
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. You can renew your vehicle registration online or in person. If doing so by mail, ensure you mail to the correct local office.
Pay Registration Fees
You must pay registration fees to complete the titling and registration processes. Every vehicle owner pays a base fee of $43.25, but your county of residence, vehicle weight, and applicable taxes will determine the final cost. You can get your estimated costs by using the DOL’s fee calculator.
Washington Vehicle Bill of Sale Form Sample
Download a Washington motor vehicle bill of sale template in PDF or Word format:
