How It Works States Document Types Tools Guides Blog About Create Document - $5

Washington DC Bill of Sale

Select a document type to generate a completed, Washington DC-specific bill of sale. Each document includes all legally required fields for your jurisdiction. Notarization is not required in Washington DC.

Browse by document type across all states →

Washington DC Requirements Overview

Notarization Not required
Odometer Disclosure (Vehicles) Required
Title Transfer Deadline 30 days

Verified against official Washington DC statutes and DC Department of Motor Vehicles guidance. Last reviewed May 2026. How we verify our legal data.

Selling privately in Washington DC

When you sell a vehicle, boat, trailer, or other titled property privately in Washington DC, a completed bill of sale records the price, date, and the legal names of both parties. That is the documentation DC Department of Motor Vehicles relies on to process the title transfer. Washington DC also requires an odometer disclosure for vehicle and motorcycle sales, which is built into every document.

Washington DC does not require notarization, though either party can choose to notarize for added protection. After the sale, the buyer should complete the title transfer with DC Department of Motor Vehicles within 30 days of the sale. Keep your copy of the completed bill of sale as proof of the transaction.

Washington DC-specific notes: Odometer disclosure is required for vehicle sales in Washington DC. Title must be transferred within 30 days of sale.

The buyer must register the vehicle within 30 days of purchase.

Federal law requires accurate odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 20 model years old.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a bill of sale in Washington DC?

Having a bill of sale is recommended for any significant transaction in Washington DC. For vehicle sales, it provides essential documentation for the title transfer process with DC Department of Motor Vehicles. Even when not strictly required by law, a bill of sale protects both buyer and seller by creating a formal record of the transaction.

What should a Washington DC bill of sale include?

A Washington DC bill of sale should include the full legal names and addresses of both buyer and seller, a detailed description of the item (including identification numbers), the sale price, the date of the transaction, and signatures of both parties. For vehicles and motorcycles, odometer disclosure is required.

Does a Washington DC bill of sale need to be notarized?

No. Washington DC does not require a bill of sale to be notarized. Notarization is optional but can add a layer of protection by verifying the identities of both parties.

How long do I have to transfer the title in Washington DC?

In Washington DC, the buyer should complete the title transfer with DC Department of Motor Vehicles within 30 days of the sale. Keep your completed bill of sale as proof of the purchase date and price.

How much does it cost?

Each bill of sale costs $5. Choose a document style, fill in your details, and download your completed PDF instantly. Re-download available for 5 days.

Create Your Washington DC Bill of Sale

Select a document type above to get started. Every document includes Washington DC-specific requirements and instant PDF download.