Washington Bill of Sale Requirements & Free Form

Washington requirements

• The Washington Department of Licensing expects the buyer and seller to complete a Vehicle or Vessel Bill of Sale, unless the sale price and sale date are already written on the title. Washington publishes its own form; our general bill of sale is a general purpose alternative and can also cover non vehicle property.
• The buyer must transfer the title into their name within 15 days of the purchase or gift. Washington DOL applies a penalty starting at $50 on day 16 plus $2 per day after that, capped at $125.
• The seller must file a Report of Sale with Washington DOL within 5 days of the sale date. DOL describes it as protecting the seller from towing charges and other liabilities the new owner incurs. It can be filed online, by mail, or at a vehicle licensing office.
• Odometer disclosure is required for vehicles of model year 2011 or newer. Washington DOL treats 2010 and older vehicles as exempt from the mileage disclosure.
• The bill of sale itself is not notarized in Washington, but the Vehicle Title Application must be signed by all owners either in front of a licensing agent at a vehicle licensing office, who can notarize it, or in front of a notary beforehand.
• Confirm current fees, forms and penalty amounts with the Washington Department of Licensing before you file.

Frequently asked questions

Does a Washington bill of sale have to be notarized?

The bill of sale itself is not notarized. What Washington notarizes is the Vehicle Title Application: DOL says all owners must sign it in front of a licensing agent at a vehicle licensing office, who can notarize it, or in front of a notary before coming in.

How long do I have to transfer a vehicle title in Washington?

The buyer has 15 days from the purchase or gift to transfer the title. Washington DOL charges a $50 penalty on day 16 plus $2 for each additional day, up to $125. The seller separately files a Report of Sale within 5 days of the sale.

Official sources

• https://dol.wa.gov/vehicles-and-boats/vehicles/buying-and-selling-vehicle/buy-and-register-vehicle
• https://dol.wa.gov/vehicles-and-boats/vehicles/buying-and-selling-vehicle/sell-vehicle