What documents do I need to buy a car from a private seller in Washington?

You need: (1) the signed title from the seller, (2) a completed bill of sale (required in Washington), (3) your photo ID, and (4) payment for registration and sales tax (6.5%–10.35%). An odometer disclosure statement is also required.

How long do I have to register a car I bought from a private seller in Washington?

Washington requires you to register the vehicle within 15 days of purchase. Registering late may result in penalty fees of $25–$100+ and potential citations for unregistered plates.

Does Washington require a bill of sale for a private car sale?

Yes. Washington requires a bill of sale to document the transaction. It is used to calculate sales tax at registration.

How do I check for liens on a used car?

The title will show any lienholder on the front. If a lien is listed, the seller must provide a lien release letter from the lender before you can take clear title. You can also check for liens through your state DMV or a paid title search service.

What is an "as-is" private car sale?

Most private car sales are "as-is," meaning the seller makes no warranties about the vehicle's condition. Once you buy it, any mechanical issues are your responsibility. A pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic is the best protection.

What sales tax do I pay when buying from a private seller in Washington?

Washington charges 6.5%–10.35% in sales or use tax on vehicle purchases. For private sales, this is typically paid when you register the vehicle at the Washington DOL — bring your bill of sale showing the purchase price.

Buying a Car From a Private Seller in Washington (2025)

Complete checklist, required documents, title transfer steps, and buyer protection tips for purchasing a vehicle from a private seller in Washington.

Washington Private Sale — Key Facts

Bill of saleRequired by law
Odometer disclosureRequired
Title notarizationNot required
Smog from sellerNot required
Days to register15 days from purchase
Sales tax6.5%–10.35%

Washington requires the seller to provide a Release of Interest form. Buyers must register within 15 days to avoid penalties.

Buyer Checklist — Washington

✓Run a vehicle history report (Carfax / AutoCheck)
✓Check for liens on the title
✓Inspect the vehicle with a mechanic before buying
✓Verify seller's name matches the title
○Get smog certificate from seller (not required in Washington)
✓Sign and complete the bill of sale (required)
✓Seller signs the back of the title
✓Complete odometer disclosure (required)
✓Register at the Washington DOL within 15 days

Step-by-Step: Buying From a Private Seller in Washington

1
Research the vehicle before you go
Use the VIN to pull a vehicle history report. Check for accidents, title brands, odometer issues, and open recalls. Verify the VIN on the report matches the VIN on the dashboard and title.
2
Inspect in person — ideally with a mechanic
A pre-purchase inspection at an independent shop costs $100–$150 and can reveal hidden problems worth thousands. Never skip this on a private sale — there's no warranty.
3
Verify the title
Check that the title is clean (no liens, no salvage/rebuilt/flood brand), in the seller's name, and that the VIN matches. If a lender is listed, get a lien release before completing the sale.
4
Complete the paperwork
Sign a bill of sale (required in Washington). The seller signs the back of the title. Complete the odometer disclosure statement. Keep copies of everything.
5
Register at the Washington DOL within 15 days
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for registration and sales tax (6.5%–10.35% of the sale price). Late registration results in penalties.

Red Flags: When to Walk Away

✗Seller does not have the title in their name
✗Title shows a lien and seller cannot provide a lien release
✗VIN on title does not match VIN on dashboard or door jamb
✗Title is salvage, rebuilt, flood, or lemon law buyback
✗Seller insists on meeting only at night or refuses a mechanic inspection
✗Price is significantly below market — may signal hidden problems or a stolen vehicle
✗Seller pressures you to sign quickly without reviewing documents

FAQ — Buying a Car From a Private Seller in Washington

Is it safe to buy a car from a private seller in Washington?: Private sales are legal and common, but they carry more risk than dealer sales because there is no warranty and limited recourse after the sale. Protect yourself with a vehicle history report, independent inspection, and a signed bill of sale.
What should a bill of sale include for a private car sale?: The bill of sale should include: vehicle year, make, model, VIN, odometer reading, sale price, date of sale, seller and buyer names and addresses, and both signatures. In some states, 'sold as-is' language is recommended.
How much tax do I pay when buying from a private seller in Washington?: Washington charges 6.5%–10.35% in sales or use tax on vehicle purchases. This is paid at the time of registration, based on the sale price in your bill of sale.
Can I drive the car home before registering it?: Technically you need valid registration or a temporary permit to drive legally. Some states issue a temporary registration at the DMV. In others, you may need a temporary operating permit. Contact the Washington DOL for the current process in Washington.

Official Resource

Washington DOL →

Get Your Bill of Sale

A signed bill of sale protects you in a private car purchase in Washington. Generate a free, state-specific form.

Washington Car Bill of Sale →