Document Genius

Free Rhode Island Bill of Sale Template

A Rhode Island bill of sale records the transfer of ownership of a vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, motorcycle, or other personal property. With the Document Genius template, you can create a clear, legally valid Rhode Island bill of sale in minutes.

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1,109 Ratings
  • Duration 2 min
  • Download as PDF and Word
  • E-sign included

Written by Josh Sainsbury | Attorney-Reviewed by Harvey Barbee, J.D.

How It works?

1

Choose Your Template

Pick the correct Rhode Island bill of sale form for a vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle.

2

Enter the Details

Provide buyer and seller information, item description (VIN, HIN, or serial number), price, and sale date.

3

Sign and Notarize (if required)

Have both parties sign. Some sales, like used boats, must be notarized. Keep copies for your records.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is a Rhode Island Bill of Sale?
  2. When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Rhode Island?
  3. Does a Rhode Island Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?
  4. Rhode Island-Specific Rules & Tips

What Is a Rhode Island Bill of Sale?

A Rhode Island bill of sale is a legal form that documents the transfer of ownership between a buyer and seller. It provides proof of the sale, helps prevent disputes, and may be required to register or title property with the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Environmental Management (DEM).

A valid Rhode Island bill of sale should include:

  • Buyer and seller names, addresses, and signatures
  • Property details (make, model, year, VIN/HIN/serial number)
  • Purchase price and date of sale
  • Notarization, if required (e.g., pre-owned boats)

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Rhode Island?

A Rhode Island bill of sale is required or recommended in these cases:

  • Vehicles: Required for private sales to support titling and registration with the Rhode Island DMV. Registration must occur within 30 days of purchase. Minimum insurance: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage (or a $75,000 combined single limit). Emissions inspection required for vehicles over two years old or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.
  • Boats: Required for registration with the DEM for motorized boats over 12 feet, canoes, kayaks, and houseboats over 14 feet. Pre-owned boat bills of sale must be notarized. Registration fees range from $32 to $620 based on length.
  • Trailers: Required for all trailers. Models from 2001 or newer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 3,001 lbs. or more must be titled and registered. Safety inspections required for trailers over 1,000 lbs. GVWR.
  • Firearms: Required for all firearm sales. Buyers must be at least 21, obtain a Rhode Island “blue card” (or “orange card“), and pass a background check. Open carry requires a License to Carry Concealable Weapons (LCCW).
  • Motorcycles: Required for private sales. Buyers must register within 30 days with the DMV, provide a bill of sale, title (if applicable), proof of insurance, and pay all fees and taxes.

Does a Rhode Island Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

Notarization rules in Rhode Island vary by sale type:

  • Vehicles: Not required.
  • Boats: Required for pre-owned boat sales.
  • Trailers: Not required unless tied to other legal filings.
  • Firearms: Application and permit documents must be notarized.
  • Motorcycles: Not required, but recommended for vintage or custom bikes.

Rhode Island-Specific Rules & Tips

Keep these state-specific rules in mind when using a bill of sale:

  • Vehicle deadlines: Register within 30 days; inspection required within 2 years or 24,000 miles for new vehicles, whichever occurs first.
  • Boat registration: Exemptions exist for boats under 12 feet, canoes/kayaks under 14 feet.
  • Trailer rules: Title and registration required for trailers 2001 or newer over 3,001 lbs. GVWR.
  • Firearm transfers: All buyers must pass a state-approved safety course and background check before purchase.
  • Motorcycle sales: Bill of sale required; titles needed for motorcycles 2001 or newer or with out-of-state titles.