A Washington, DC, bill of sale is a legal form used to transfer ownership of an item from one person to another, according to the state’s specific laws. This document serves as proof of the transaction and outlines the terms of the sale, purchase price, full names and contact information of both parties, a description of the item being sold, the date of the transaction, and the signatures of both parties.
How to Register a Vehicle in Washington, DC
To complete the registration process, visit your nearest Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. Residents of Washington, DC must register their vehicles within 60 days. If moving from out-of-state, it is recommended to apply for a DC driver’s license before registration.
Bill of Sale – By Type (5)
Used to buy or sell a motor vehicle in the state and required for the registration process at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Vehicle Bill of Sale
A document used to transfer ownership of recreational water vehicles (such as motorboats, sailboats, yachts, and jet skis) in Washington, DC.
Boat Bill of Sale
A document used to buy or sell a trailer (or any non-motorized vehicle pulled by another vehicle) in the state and register it at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Trailer Bill of Sale
For transferring ownership of a gun (such as a handgun, rifle, or shotgun) in Washington, DC, and avoiding legal or criminal issues involving the weapon after it is sold.
Firearm Bill of Sale
Used to document the details of a motorcycle sale and transfer ownership.
Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Requirements
In Washington, DC, a bill of sale is not required to sell or purchase a vehicle, though it may aid in selling a vessel. It is still handy to have and can serve as a receipt for future purposes.
Language and Copy Requirements
- Language: Since there is no official bill of sale form, you may draft it in any language you like as long as each party has a copy they can understand. However, the DMV provides interpretation services in over 170 languages, called Language Line Services, free to use on-demand and over the phone.
- Number of Copies: Since the district does not require a copy of the original bill of sale for registration, one copy for the seller and one for the buyer should suffice.
Vehicle Registration Forms
In addition to drafting an appropriate bill of sale, many different steps and documents are involved in registering a vehicle in Washington, DC. Here is a primer on the process:
Dealership Sales
If you are purchasing a brand-new vehicle, you will have to visit the DMV in person with the following documents:
- Manufacturer’s certificate of origin
- Bill of Sale
- Odometer statement
- Certificate of Title/Temporary Registration and Tag Application, or Form DMV-CTA-001
- Lien or lessee contract (if applicable)
- Valid photo ID or driver’s license
- Registration fees
Private Sales
All vehicles housed and operated in the district must be registered at the DMV in person. If you are new to the district, you will have 30 days to register and title your vehicle. There is no option to register by mail, phone, or online.
- Bill of Sale
- Original Certificate of Title
- Certificate of Vehicle Inspection
- Vehicle Registration Application (VSA-14) or Application for Certificate of Title and Registration (VSA 17A)
- Valid photo ID or driver’s license
- Registration fees
- Proof Insurance
- A motor vehicle power of attorney (Form DMV-VSPA-01) – if someone else is signing for you
Boat Registration Forms
All watercraft must be registered in Washington, DC, including canoes, kayaks, powerboats, US Coast Guard documented vessels, rental, and clubs.
New Vessels:
- Application for Boat Certificate of Title/Registration (PD 330)
- Bill of Sale
- Manufacturer Statement of Origin (MSO) or Certificate of Origin
- Valid photo ID
- Registration fees
Used Vessels:
- Application for Boat Certificate of Title/Registration (PD 330)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of Ownership
- Lien Satisfaction when a lien is noted on the title
- Valid photo ID
- Registration fees
Gun Registration Forms
In Washington, DC, you must carry a permit and register with the state’s Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to purchase a firearm. While you must have the registration certificate to transfer firearm ownership lawfully, a bill of sale is still optional. However, they are good to have as a sales transaction record if needed.
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