Washington Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template
Buying or selling a vehicle in Washington? A bill of sale isn’t just paperwork – it serves as proof of ownership transfer, protecting both parties and assisting with registration and tax requirements. Whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealer, this document ensures a smooth transfer of ownership and avoids disputes.
What is the Washington Bill of Sale?
In private sales, a bill of sale is essential since buyers and sellers handle the paperwork themselves. It serves as legal proof, documenting key details like the sale price, date, and vehicle or vessel information. This document is the best way to prove that the item has officially changed hands and that both parties agreed on the terms of the sale.
Even when purchasing from a dealership, this document offers added protection, helping resolve disputes, clarify agreements, and serve as a backup record if issues arise later. It’s your official record of the transaction, and it’s key to making sure you’re protected from any legal or financial problems down the road.
Why Do You Need a Washington Bill of Sale?
A Washington Bill of Sale is a crucial legal document that confirms the terms of a private transaction and protects both the seller and the buyer. It’s the best way to prove that the item has officially changed hands and that both parties agreed on the final terms of the sale.
For Seller
- Release from Liability: The bill of sale proves that the sale occurred and that you’re no longer the owner. Without it, the seller could still receive parking tickets, toll violations, or other fines tied to the vehicle.
- Protection Against Delays: It is especially crucial if the buyer delays transferring the title (which buyers must do within 15 days in Washington). The document formally records the sale date, protecting you from potential legal or financial issues during that time.
- Proof of Transaction: It serves as a clear, documented record that the vehicle is out of your hands.
For Buyers
- Proof of Ownership: The bill of sale isn’t just paperwork; it’s solid proof of ownership. If the title transfer is delayed, it confirms that the vehicle legally belongs to you.
- Dispute Prevention: It helps prevent disputes by clarifying the terms of the sale, including the price and condition of the vehicle.
- Aids Official Processes: It may be required for vehicle registration, getting insurance, or resolving legal or financial concerns after the purchase.
The Types of Bill of Sale Forms in Washington
In Washington State, the main bill of sale types are broken down by what you’re selling: motor vehicles, boats, or general personal items. A key difference in these forms is whether the sale is “as-is” (meaning no warranty) or if a warranty is included.
Vehicle and Vessel Forms
These forms are necessary for legally transferring ownership of cars, trucks, and watercraft for title and registration purposes.
- Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale: Used for cars, boats, and other registered vessels. The form must include the VIN/HIN, make, model, year, mileage, price, and the full names/addresses of both the buyer and the seller.
- Automobile As-Is Bill of Sale: This is a specific type of vehicle form where the seller clearly states that they are not offering any warranty. The buyer accepts the vehicle in its current condition.
- Required Seller Action: The seller is legally required to file a Report of Sale with the Department of Licensing (DOL) right after the transaction to protect themselves from future liability.
General Property Forms
These forms cover everything else and give both parties the legal paperwork they need.
- Personal Property Bill of Sale (As-Is): Used when selling personal items and the seller wants to officially state they won’t be responsible for any issues that pop up later. It explicitly confirms the sale is “as-is.”
- General Bill of Sale: This is a flexible form for transferring ownership of various other items, such as trailers, firearms, furniture, or animals. It can be customized to fit the specific details of any kind of general transaction.
What Information Should be Written in the Washington Bill of Sale?
A properly drafted bill of sale is more than a simple agreement – it’s a detailed record of the transaction. On a Washington bill of sale, the details of both parties should be written along with these:
- Buyer and seller details: Full names and addresses
- Vehicle information: Make, model, year, VIN, and mileage
- Sale price: The agreed-upon amount
- Date of sale: The official transfer date
- Signatures: Both parties must sign to make it valid
How to Register a Vehicle in Washington
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before visiting the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL), make sure you have:
- Signed Title – The seller must properly sign it over to you.
- Valid ID – A Washington-issued driver’s license or ID.
- Proof of Insurance – Required for registration.
- VIN Inspection – Only necessary for out-of-state vehicles (can be done at the DOL or a dealership).
- Registration Fees – Costs vary based on vehicle type and location.
Step 2: Visit the DOL
Go to your nearest Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) office with all required documents.
Step 3: Register Your Car
At the DOL, complete the process by:
- Submitting your paperwork
- Paying the registration fees
- Receiving your license plates and registration sticker
Step 4: Transfer the Title
Ensure the vehicle title is officially transferred to your name. Washington law requires this to be completed within 15 days to avoid late fees.
Step 5: Keep Your Documents Safe
Once registered, store your title, registration, and license plates securely.
Washington VIN Check – Verify Vehicle History Before You Buy
When you run a VIN check with Detailed Vehicle History, you can get all the detailed information about the vehicle. Here’s what you’ll be getting in the report.
Mileage History
Title Brand
Ownership History
Warranty Status
Sales History
Salvage Title
Usage History
Repair Cost
Auction History
Hail Damage
Ownership Duration
Recalls History
Accident History
Flood Damage
Lien & Loans
Maintenance Schedule
Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale by State
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Each state has its own requirements for an auto bill of sale. Click below to find the template for your state!
Washington Bill of Sale FAQs
Can you write your own bill of sale in Washington?
Yes, you can create your own bill of sale in Washington as long as it includes essential details like the buyer and seller’s names, vehicle information (make, model, year, and VIN), sale price, date of sale, and signatures.
Can you handwrite a bill of sale?
Yes, a handwritten bill of sale is acceptable in Washington, provided it includes all required information. However, a typed version is often preferred for clarity.
Can I transfer a title without a bill of sale in Washington state?
Yes, a bill of sale is not mandatory for title transfer in Washington, but it is recommended. The title, properly signed by the seller, is the primary document required for transferring ownership.
Does the Washington bill of sale need to be notarized?
No, a Washington Bill of Sale usually does not have to be notarized for most car sales. However, the main title application itself does need to be notarized, or you have to sign it in front of a licensing agent.Â
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Even though the bill of sale doesn’t legally need notarization, people often recommend it for expensive sales or out-of-state deals to help prevent fraud and make the document more secure.
Do all bills of sale need to be notarized?
No, Washington does not require a bill of sale to be notarized for vehicle sales. However, notarization can add an extra layer of security and legitimacy to the transaction.
