Free Washington Car Bill of Sale
Washington's Use Tax adds up fast — 6.5% state plus local tax plus a 0.5% motor vehicle tax (over 11% in total in Seattle). Form TD-420-065 is WA's official Bill of Sale. WA eliminated emissions testing in 2020, making it one of the simpler states for transfer — no inspection required at sale.
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Washington Car Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Sales Tax Details
6.5% state sales tax (Use Tax) plus local city/county tax, plus a statewide 0.5% motor vehicle sales/use tax (since January 1, 2026). Seattle's combined sales tax rate is 10.55% before the 0.5%. Tax is calculated on the sale price or fair market value, whichever is higher, under DOL's valuation rules.
Inspection Requirements
Washington eliminated emissions testing in 2020. No statewide safety inspection. A Washington State Patrol inspection is needed only in special cases, such as rebuilt, homemade, or VIN-problem vehicles.
Washington Car Sale — Step-by-Step Checklist
- Complete Form TD-420-065 (WA official Bill of Sale) OR equivalent with VIN, odometer, sale price, signatures.
- Seller signs WA title over to buyer.
- Seller files a Report of Sale with WA DOL within 5 days at dol.wa.gov (releases liability).
- Buyer completes Vehicle Title Application at DOL office or agent within 15 days.
- Buyer pays 6.5% state + local Use Tax + the 0.5% motor vehicle tax + title fee + registration.
- Seller removes plates (WA is plates-to-owner).
- Rebuilt, homemade, or VIN-problem vehicle: the licensing agent may require a Washington State Patrol inspection before titling.
Common Pitfalls
- Missing the Report of Sale filing — seller stays liable for tolls and tickets.
- Expecting a single low tax rate — WA Seattle-area rates push past 10%.
- Leaving plates on the sold car — WA is plates-to-owner.
- Missing the 15-day transfer window — late fees apply.
Pro Tip
WA car sales: TD-420-065, Report of Sale within 5 days, plates-to-owner, no inspection, 15-day transfer. Budget for roughly 8.5–11% combined tax, including the 0.5% motor vehicle tax.