The Washington motor vehicle bill of sale is a form that contains the necessary information to document the sale of a motor vehicle within the state. The parties to the transaction, the seller and the buyer, can fill out this form together and keep it for their records. The seller will require the bill of sale to transfer the title and report the sale of the vehicle, which releases them from any further liability related to the vehicle. The buyer can use the bill of sale to apply for a new title and register the vehicle. A bill of sale includes the vehicle’s information, the sale price, and information on both the seller and buyer.

Washington Vehicle Registration/Titling

Buyers who have purchased a vehicle from a private seller must transfer ownership of the vehicle within fifteen (15) days of the sale (this includes vehicles given as a gift). A $50 late fee will be charged on the sixteenth (16th) day after the sale and $2 every subsequent day until the maximum late fee of $125 is reached. To register a recently purchased vehicle, the buyer must complete the following steps:

1. Obtain the original title of the vehicle from the seller. If the vehicle is less than ten (10) years old, the seller must complete the odometer disclosure section on the title.
2. Complete the Vehicle Title Application (Form 420-001).
3. Visit the nearest Washington State Vehicle Licensing Office.
4. Present the following documents to the licensing agent:
   • Bill of Sale
   • Title Application
   • Current vehicle title
5. Pay the appropriate titling fees (varies by county).
6. The buyer can ask for new license plates while at the licensing office.