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Free Washington, DC Bill of Sale Template

Record your private sale securely with a Washington, DC bill of sale. Whether you’re transferring a car, boat, trailer, motorcycle, firearm, or other personal property, this document creates a clear record of the transaction and helps meet local requirements.

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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 a Template

Select the District of Columbia Bill of Sale template for vehicles, boats, trailers, firearms, or motorcycles.

2

Add the Required Information

Include the buyer’s and seller’s details plus a description of the property.

3

Review and Sign

Confirm accuracy, sign the form, and complete the transfer.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is a Washington, DC Bill of Sale?
  2. When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Washington, DC?
  3. Does a Washington, DC Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?
  4. Washington, DC–Specific Tips and Common Scenarios

What Is a Washington, DC Bill of Sale?

A Washington, DC bill of sale is a written agreement between a buyer and seller that details:

  • The identities and contact information of both parties
  • A description of the property being sold (VIN, HIN, make/model, serial number, etc.)
  • Purchase price and payment terms
  • Sale date
  • Signatures

While not required for every transaction in DC, it can serve as proof of ownership transfer, help resolve disputes, and be necessary for certain registrations or inspections.

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Washington, DC?

DC law does not mandate a bill of sale for all property transfers, but it is required or strongly recommended in the following cases:

Even when optional, keeping a signed bill of sale protects both buyer and seller if questions arise later.

Does a Washington, DC Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

  • Boats: Yes, notarization is required on the application for a title.
  • Other property types: Not generally required, but notarization adds legal weight to the document.

Washington, DC–Specific Tips and Common Scenarios

  • Vehicles

    • Must be registered within 60 days of becoming a DC resident.
    • Required documents: title or certificate of origin, DMV inspection proof, proof of insurance (minimum $25k per person/$50k per accident liability and $10k property damage), valid DC ID, and applicable fees.
    • Registration fees vary by vehicle weight and type; use the DC DMV fee calculator for estimates.

    Boats

    • All watercraft—including canoes, kayaks, and paddlecraft—must be registered if used more than 50 days in DC waters.
    • Registration handled by the MPD Harbor Patrol; can be completed in person or through the OVERS online system.
    • Fees range from $10 (non-motorized) to $60+ depending on size and propulsion; plus 6% title tax on purchase price.

    Trailers

    • Must be titled and registered through the DC DMV.
    • Fees range from $50 to $925 based on weight; outstanding debts or tickets must be cleared before registration.
    • Liability insurance is required and often covered under auto policies.

    Firearms

    • All firearms must be registered with the Metropolitan Police Department before possession.
    • Concealed carry allowed only with a DC-issued CCPL; open carry prohibited.
    • Private sales must go through a licensed dealer.
    • Buyers must be 21+ (or 18–21 for long guns with notarized guardian consent).

    Motorcycles

    • Bill of sale required for registration and title transfer.
    • Transfers require: signed title, bill of sale, proof of insurance, odometer statement, and DC ID.
    • Cannot transfer title with only a bill of sale; lost titles require a duplicate from DMV.