Free Washington Vehicle Bill of Sale Form
A Washington vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that formally records the transfer of ownership of a motor vehicle from a seller to a buyer. It outlines the essential details of the transaction, including the purchase price, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the contact information for both parties, serving as a critical receipt that protects everyone involved in the sale.
Washington Automobile Bill of Sale
Official printable document required for the private sale and title transfer of a vehicle in Washington. This PDF is optimized for clear printing and accepted by local county tax and DMV offices.
How to Sell a Vehicle in Washington (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Negotiate the purchase price and acceptable payment method. Once agreed, ensure both the buyer and seller are ready to accurately document the transaction.
Step 2: Complete the Washington Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale (Form TD-420-065). Ensure the VIN, purchase price, date, and buyer/seller details are clearly printed. If the vehicle is a 2011 model year or newer, both parties must also complete an Odometer Disclosure Statement on the title or on official tamper-proof paper.
Step 3: Sign the completed bill of sale. Washington does not require the signatures to be notarized, but both parties should retain a signed copy for their personal records.
Step 4: The seller must sign over the title, provide a lien release (if applicable), and remove the license plates from the vehicle, as plates stay with the seller in Washington. The seller must also file a Report of Sale with the WA DOL within 5 days.
Step 5: The buyer must take the signed title, the bill of sale, and payment for taxes and fees to a local vehicle licensing office within 15 days to officially transfer ownership. Washington State no longer requires smog or emissions testing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Vehicle Sales
Do I need a bill of sale to sell a vehicle in Washington?
Yes. The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) requires a bill of sale to prove the purchase price and calculate the use tax when the buyer officially transfers the title.
Does a Washington vehicle bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. Washington does not require a notary public to witness the signing of a vehicle bill of sale or the vehicle title transfer signatures.
Can I write my own bill of sale in Washington?
Yes, you can draft your own document as long as it includes the exact vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN), purchase price, date of sale, and the signatures of both parties. However, using the official DOL Form TD-420-065 is highly recommended to ensure all necessary data is accurately collected.
Are private vehicle sales in Washington considered "as-is"?
Yes, private party vehicle sales in Washington are strictly "as-is." The state's Lemon Law applies to new vehicles and does not cover used vehicles bought from private sellers, meaning the buyer assumes all responsibility for repairs immediately after the sale.
How is sales tax calculated on a private vehicle sale in Washington?
Buyers pay a Use Tax rather than a standard sales tax. The Department of Revenue calculates this tax based on the fair market value of the vehicle, not necessarily the bill of sale price. If the purchase price is significantly below the fair market value, the buyer and seller may need to submit a 'Declaration of Buyer and Seller Regarding Value of Used Vehicle Sold' form.
What documents does the buyer need to bring to the Washington DMV?
The buyer must bring the current vehicle title signed by the seller, a completed Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale (Form TD-420-065), an Odometer Disclosure Statement (if the vehicle is 2011 or newer), a valid WA driver's license, and payment for the title transfer fees and use tax.