Selling your car is a significant step, and in Washington State, it comes with the responsibility of filing a report of sale. This crucial process protects you from potential liabilities associated with the vehicle after it’s no longer in your possession. Filing a report promptly is not just good practice—it’s in your best interest. While there’s no direct late fee for reporting after five days, delaying could expose you to financial, criminal, or civil liabilities incurred by the new owner. Therefore, acting swiftly is key when you put your car For Sale On Car marketplaces or through any other sales method.
You are required to file a vehicle sale report in Washington if you transfer ownership through various means, including:
- Private sale
- Consignment sale
- Sale to an out-of-state buyer
- Trade-in to a dealer
- Trade-in to a private party
- Gifting the vehicle
- Vehicle donation
- Handing over to a wrecking yard
- Transfer to an insurance company
- Vehicle disposal
It’s worth noting that registered Washington vehicle dealers may file the report on behalf of owners who trade in or sell to their dealership. However, as the seller, it’s your responsibility to confirm that the report has been submitted to ensure you are protected after you list your car for sale on car websites or lots.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Vehicle Sale Report
Here’s a detailed walkthrough to help you accurately and efficiently report the sale of your vehicle:
1. Remove Your License Plates
Removing your license plates is a critical first step. This action strongly encourages the new owner to register the vehicle in their name. Keeping your plates on the car after you’ve sold it increases the risk of you being held responsible for impound costs, traffic violations, toll tickets (like Good to Go! charges), and other potential liabilities. Think of it as the first line of defense after you’ve finalized the transaction of your car for sale on car platforms.
2. Gather Necessary Information
Before you begin the filing process, collect all the essential details. Accuracy is paramount to avoid complications later. You will need:
- License Plate Number: Ensure you have all letters and numbers correctly noted.
- Date of Sale or Transfer: The exact date the ownership changed hands.
- Sale Price: Enter the agreed-upon sale amount. If it was a gift or inheritance, input “zero.”
- Buyer Information: Full name and address of the individual or organization that now owns the vehicle.
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This unique identifier is crucial for accurate reporting.
Double-check all information before submitting your report. Mistakes can lead to complications. If you identify an error post-filing, you will need to visit a vehicle licensing location to rectify it. The original report will be deleted, and you’ll have to submit a new one.
3. Submit Your Report
Washington State offers multiple convenient ways to file your vehicle sale report: online, in person, or by mail. Regardless of the method, ensure your report is complete to protect yourself from future liabilities related to the vehicle you’ve put for sale on car markets.
Online Filing
The quickest and most efficient method is online filing. Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) website and navigate to their online reporting system. You will be guided through each step, allowing for immediate submission and confirmation.
In-Person or By Mail
For those who prefer traditional methods, or need to correct an error from a previous online submission, in-person or mail-in options are available.
- Complete the Form: Download and fill out the Vehicle Report of Sale form. Ensure all sections are accurately completed.
- Include Payment: A fee might be associated with filing in person or by mail. Include a check payable to the “Department of Licensing” for the correct amount. Check the DOL website for current fee schedules.
- Submit: Mail your completed form and payment to the vehicle licensing location of your choice, or visit in person during operating hours.
Vehicle Report of Sale form sample, detailing information needed when reporting a car for sale on car classifieds.
4. Update Your Good To Go! Account
If you use Washington State’s electronic tolling system, Good To Go!, remember to update your account information. This is crucial to avoid charges for tolls incurred by the new owner after you’ve sold your car for sale on car websites.
Update your Good To Go! account online at https://www.wsdot.wa.gov/goodtogo/, or contact customer service at 866-936-8246. Ensure your vehicle details are removed from your account to prevent any future billing issues.
After Filing Your Report
Once you’ve submitted your vehicle sale report, it’s important to keep a record for your files. You have several options to obtain proof of filing:
- Print Confirmation: If you filed online, print a copy of the confirmation page or the completed Report of Sale form.
- Request Vehicle Record Online: You can request a vehicle record online for a fee. This provides an official record of the transaction.
- Mail-in Record Request: Alternatively, you can mail a completed Vehicle/Boat Record Request form with the required fee.
In the event you retain ownership of the vehicle after filing a report—perhaps a sale falls through after you listed your car for sale on car marketplaces—it’s essential to visit a vehicle licensing office. Inform them of the situation so they can delete the report of sale from their records, ensuring accuracy and preventing any confusion.
By following these steps, you ensure a smooth and legally sound process when selling your vehicle in Washington State, protecting yourself from liabilities and fulfilling your responsibilities as a seller after you’ve advertised your car for sale on car platforms.
