An Oregon motor vehicle bill of sale acts as proof of purchase for a vehicle transaction between a buyer and a seller. By executing the document, both parties affirm that the vehicle was paid for and its ownership was transferred from the seller to the buyer. Furthermore, if a person buys a vehicle from a non-licensed dealer, the bill of sale is a required document when they register the vehicle in the state.

Oregon Vehicle Registration/Titling

In Oregon, the buyer in a private vehicle transaction will need to obtain a signed bill of sale and original vehicle title from the seller to be able to transfer ownership. State practice requires newly purchased vehicles to be titled and registered at the same time. If a vehicle is not registered within thirty (30) days of its purchase date, the buyer may need to pay late fees. Buyers can accomplish titling and registration by completing the following steps:

1. Obtain a Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale and the vehicle’s original Certificate of Title, with the seller transferring ownership to the buyer.
2. If the buyer is a resident of Portland or Medford, the vehicle must pass an emission test at a DEQ Too testing site. They will receive a Certificate of Compliance after passing the test.
3. If the vehicle is less than ten (10) years old, an odometer reading will be required for registration to be completed. In the event that a reading isn’t included on the vehicle title or bill of sale, the buyer will need to obtain a Secure Odometer Disclosure form from the DMV and complete it prior to registering.
4. Make an appointment with their local DMV office.
5. Bring the following completed documents to their appointment:
   • Application for Title and Registration
   • Certificate of Title
   • Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale
   • Secure Odometer Disclosure (if required)
   • Certificate of Compliance (if required)
   • Proof of insurance
   • Driver’s license
6. Pay titling and registration fees.