District of Columbia Bill of Sale
BILL OF SALE
District of Columbia
Document Type — Select One:
☐ Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale
☐ General Personal Property Bill of Sale
☐ Combined Vehicle and Personal Property Bill of Sale
ARTICLE I — DOCUMENT HEADER AND EFFECTIVE DATE
Bill of Sale Number: [________________________________]
Date of Sale: [__/__/____]
Effective Date of Transfer: [__/__/____]
Location of Execution: Washington, District of Columbia [____]
This Bill of Sale ("Agreement") is entered into on the date set forth above by and between the Seller and Buyer identified below, for the sale and transfer of personal property described herein, pursuant to the laws of the District of Columbia, including the Uniform Commercial Code as adopted under D.C. Code § 28:2-101 et seq.
ARTICLE II — DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this Agreement, the following terms shall have the meanings ascribed below:
2.1 "Agreement" means this Bill of Sale and all exhibits, addenda, and schedules attached hereto and incorporated by reference.
2.2 "Buyer" means the individual or entity purchasing the Property, as identified in Article III.
2.3 "Closing Date" means the date on which the Purchase Price is paid in full and title to the Property is transferred to the Buyer.
2.4 "Encumbrance" means any lien, security interest, mortgage, pledge, charge, claim, restriction, easement, or other encumbrance of any kind.
2.5 "Fair Market Value" means the price at which the Property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither being under any compulsion to buy or sell, and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts, as determined in accordance with D.C. Code § 50-2201.03(j) for vehicle transactions.
2.6 "Goods" means all things, including specially manufactured goods, which are movable at the time of identification to the contract for sale, as defined in D.C. Code § 28:2-105.
2.7 "Lien" means a legal claim or right against the Property, including but not limited to a security interest under D.C. Code § 28:9-101 et seq.
2.8 "Merchant" means a person who deals in goods of the kind or otherwise by his occupation holds himself out as having knowledge or skill peculiar to the practices or goods involved in the transaction, as defined under D.C. Code § 28:2-104.
2.9 "Motor Vehicle" means any vehicle propelled by an internal combustion engine, electric motor, or other power source, designed primarily for use on public highways of the District of Columbia.
2.10 "Property" means the goods, motor vehicle, or other personal property described in Article V of this Agreement.
2.11 "Purchase Price" means the total consideration paid by the Buyer for the Property as set forth in Article VI.
2.12 "Seller" means the individual or entity selling the Property, as identified in Article III.
2.13 "Title" means the legal document evidencing ownership of the Property, including a Certificate of Title for motor vehicles issued pursuant to D.C. Code § 50-1501.02.
ARTICLE III — PARTIES
Section 3.1 — Seller Information
Full Legal Name: [________________________________]
Type: ☐ Individual ☐ Business Entity ☐ Estate/Trust
Date of Birth / EIN: [________________________________]
Street Address: [________________________________]
City: Washington State: DC Zip Code: [____]
Telephone: [________________________________]
Email: [________________________________]
Driver's License / ID Number: [________________________________]
Issuing Jurisdiction: [________________________________]
Section 3.2 — Buyer Information
Full Legal Name: [________________________________]
Type: ☐ Individual ☐ Business Entity ☐ Estate/Trust
Date of Birth / EIN: [________________________________]
Street Address: [________________________________]
City: [________________________________] State: [____] Zip Code: [____]
Telephone: [________________________________]
Email: [________________________________]
Driver's License / ID Number: [________________________________]
Issuing Jurisdiction: [________________________________]
Section 3.3 — Co-Buyer Information (if applicable)
☐ Not Applicable
Full Legal Name: [________________________________]
Date of Birth: [__/__/____]
Street Address: [________________________________]
City: [________________________________] State: [____] Zip Code: [____]
Driver's License / ID Number: [________________________________]
Relationship to Buyer: [________________________________]
ARTICLE IV — RECITALS
WHEREAS, Seller is the lawful owner of the Property described herein and desires to sell, assign, and transfer all right, title, and interest in the Property to the Buyer; and
WHEREAS, Buyer desires to purchase and acquire all right, title, and interest in the Property from the Seller upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement; and
WHEREAS, both parties have entered into this Agreement voluntarily and with full knowledge of its terms and legal consequences; and
WHEREAS, this transaction is governed by the laws of the District of Columbia, including the Uniform Commercial Code as codified at D.C. Code § 28:2-101 et seq.;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:
ARTICLE V — PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Section 5.1 — Type of Property
☐ Motor Vehicle (complete Section 5.2)
☐ Watercraft/Vessel (complete Section 5.3)
☐ General Personal Property (complete Section 5.4)
☐ Multiple Items (complete all applicable sections)
Section 5.2 — Motor Vehicle Description
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Year: | [____] |
| Make: | [________________________________] |
| Model: | [________________________________] |
| Trim / Package: | [________________________________] |
| Body Style: | [________________________________] |
| Exterior Color: | [________________________________] |
| Interior Color: | [________________________________] |
| Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): | [________________________________] |
| Engine Number: | [________________________________] |
| Transmission: | ☐ Automatic ☐ Manual ☐ CVT ☐ Other: [____] |
| Fuel Type: | ☐ Gasoline ☐ Diesel ☐ Electric ☐ Hybrid ☐ Other: [____] |
| Drive Type: | ☐ FWD ☐ RWD ☐ AWD ☐ 4WD |
| Curb Weight (lbs): | [________________________________] |
| EPA City MPG: | [________________________________] |
| DC Title Number: | [________________________________] |
| Current License Plate Number: | [________________________________] |
| License Plate State: | [________________________________] |
Section 5.3 — Watercraft/Vessel Description
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Year: | [____] |
| Make: | [________________________________] |
| Model: | [________________________________] |
| Hull Identification Number (HIN): | [________________________________] |
| Length (ft): | [________________________________] |
| Hull Material: | [________________________________] |
| Engine Make/Model: | [________________________________] |
| Registration Number: | [________________________________] |
Section 5.4 — General Personal Property Description
Item Description: [________________________________]
Serial Number(s): [________________________________]
Make / Manufacturer: [________________________________]
Model: [________________________________]
Year of Manufacture: [____]
Condition: ☐ New ☐ Like New ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor
Additional Description / Identifying Characteristics:
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
Section 5.5 — Accessories, Add-Ons, and Included Items
The following additional items are included with the Property and are part of this sale:
☐ Owner's Manual and Service Records
☐ Spare Key(s) — Quantity: [____]
☐ Spare Tire and Jack
☐ Custom Accessories: [________________________________]
☐ Aftermarket Parts: [________________________________]
☐ Other: [________________________________]
ARTICLE VI — PURCHASE PRICE AND PAYMENT TERMS
Section 6.1 — Purchase Price
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base Purchase Price: | $ [________________________________] |
| Additional Accessories / Add-Ons: | $ [________________________________] |
| Trade-In Credit (if applicable): | ($ [________________________________]) |
| Total Purchase Price: | $ [________________________________] |
Purchase Price in Words: [________________________________] Dollars and [____] Cents
Section 6.2 — Payment Method
☐ Cash
☐ Certified Check / Cashier's Check
☐ Personal Check (subject to clearance)
☐ Wire Transfer / Electronic Funds Transfer
☐ Money Order
☐ Installment Payments (see Section 6.3)
☐ Combination: [________________________________]
Section 6.3 — Installment Payment Schedule (if applicable)
☐ Not Applicable — Payment made in full at closing.
If payment is to be made in installments, the following schedule shall apply:
| Payment No. | Due Date | Amount | Method | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deposit / Down Payment | [__/__/____] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | ☐ Paid ☐ Pending |
| 1 | [__/__/____] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | ☐ Paid ☐ Pending |
| 2 | [__/__/____] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | ☐ Paid ☐ Pending |
| 3 | [__/__/____] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | ☐ Paid ☐ Pending |
| 4 | [__/__/____] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | ☐ Paid ☐ Pending |
| 5 | [__/__/____] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | ☐ Paid ☐ Pending |
| 6 | [__/__/____] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | ☐ Paid ☐ Pending |
| Final Payment | [__/__/____] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | ☐ Paid ☐ Pending |
Late Payment Penalty: A late fee of [____]% of the overdue installment amount shall be assessed for any payment not received within [____] days of the due date.
Default: Failure to make any installment payment within [____] days of its due date shall constitute a default. Upon default, Seller may, at Seller's option: (a) accelerate all remaining payments and declare the entire unpaid balance immediately due and payable; (b) repossess the Property; or (c) pursue any other remedy available under D.C. law.
Section 6.4 — Deposit / Earnest Money
☐ No deposit required.
☐ A deposit of $ [________________________________] was paid on [__/__/____].
Deposit Terms: ☐ Refundable ☐ Non-Refundable ☐ Refundable with conditions: [________________________________]
ARTICLE VII — WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS
Section 7.1 — Warranty Selection
SELECT ONE:
☐ OPTION A — "AS-IS" SALE (No Warranty)
THE PROPERTY IS SOLD "AS IS," "WHERE IS," AND "WITH ALL FAULTS." THE SELLER MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, EXCEPT AS LIMITED BY D.C. CODE § 28:2-316.01. THE BUYER ACKNOWLEDGES THAT BUYER HAS HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO INSPECT THE PROPERTY AND ACCEPTS THE PROPERTY IN ITS PRESENT CONDITION.
IMPORTANT DC NOTICE: Under D.C. Code § 28:2-316.01, in consumer transactions, a seller may not exclude or modify implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. This "as-is" provision applies only to non-consumer transactions between private parties or between merchants. A "consumer transaction" is one in which a party acquires goods or services primarily for personal, family, or household purposes. If this is a consumer transaction, this "as-is" disclaimer may be unenforceable.
Buyer's Initials: [____] Seller's Initials: [____]
☐ OPTION B — LIMITED WARRANTY
Seller warrants that the Property shall be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of [________________________________] from the date of sale, subject to the following limitations:
Covered Components: [________________________________]
Excluded Components: [________________________________]
Maximum Warranty Liability: $ [________________________________]
Warranty Conditions: [________________________________]
Buyer's Initials: [____] Seller's Initials: [____]
☐ OPTION C — EXPRESS WARRANTY
Seller makes the following express warranties regarding the Property, which are in addition to any implied warranties provided by law:
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
Pursuant to D.C. Code § 28:2-313, any affirmation of fact or promise made by the Seller to the Buyer which relates to the goods and becomes part of the basis of the bargain creates an express warranty that the goods shall conform to the affirmation or promise.
Buyer's Initials: [____] Seller's Initials: [____]
Section 7.2 — Seller's Representations
Seller represents and warrants the following to be true and correct as of the date of this Agreement:
(a) Seller is the lawful owner of the Property and has full right, power, and authority to sell and transfer the Property.
(b) The Property is free and clear of all Encumbrances except as disclosed in Article VIII.
(c) There are no pending or threatened legal proceedings, claims, or disputes relating to the Property.
(d) All information provided by Seller in this Agreement is true, accurate, and complete to the best of Seller's knowledge.
(e) The Property has not been stolen, and Seller has no knowledge of any theft or criminal activity related to the Property.
(f) Seller is not a party to any agreement that would prevent or restrict the sale of the Property.
Section 7.3 — DC Consumer Protection Disclosures
Under D.C. Code § 28-3901 et seq. (Consumer Protection Procedures Act), it is unlawful for any merchant to engage in unfair or deceptive trade practices. The following disclosures are made in compliance with District of Columbia law:
(a) The Property ☐ has ☐ has not been subject to a prior recall.
(b) The Property ☐ has ☐ has not been previously returned to a manufacturer under any lemon law or buyback program. If YES, the words "MANUFACTURER'S BUYBACK" ☐ are ☐ are not disclosed on the title.
(c) The Property ☐ has ☐ has not been involved in a flood, fire, or other natural disaster.
(d) The Property ☐ has ☐ has not been declared a total loss by an insurance company.
(e) The Property ☐ has ☐ has not been used as a rental vehicle, taxi, police vehicle, or other commercial/fleet vehicle.
(f) The Property ☐ has ☐ has not sustained frame or structural damage.
(g) The Property ☐ does ☐ does not have a salvage title or rebuilt title.
Section 7.4 — Implied Warranties Under DC Law
Pursuant to DC law, the following implied warranties may apply:
(a) Implied Warranty of Merchantability (D.C. Code § 28:2-314): If the Seller is a merchant with respect to goods of the kind sold, a warranty that the goods shall be merchantable is implied unless validly excluded under D.C. Code § 28:2-316 and § 28:2-316.01.
(b) Implied Warranty of Fitness for a Particular Purpose (D.C. Code § 28:2-315): Where the Seller has reason to know any particular purpose for which the goods are required and the Buyer relies on the Seller's skill or judgment to select suitable goods, an implied warranty of fitness for that particular purpose arises.
(c) Consumer Transaction Limitation (D.C. Code § 28:2-316.01): In consumer transactions, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose may not be excluded or modified.
ARTICLE VIII — TITLE, OWNERSHIP, AND ENCUMBRANCES
Section 8.1 — Title Warranty
Seller warrants that Seller holds good and marketable title to the Property, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, claims, and restrictions, except as specifically disclosed herein, pursuant to D.C. Code § 28:2-312.
Section 8.2 — Encumbrances and Liens Disclosure
☐ The Property is free and clear of all liens and encumbrances.
☐ The Property is subject to the following existing liens or encumbrances:
| Lienholder Name | Type of Lien | Amount Owed | Account Number | Payoff Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| [________________________________] | [________________________________] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | [__/__/____] |
| [________________________________] | [________________________________] | $ [________________________________] | [________________________________] | [__/__/____] |
Section 8.3 — Lien Release Obligation
If any lien or encumbrance exists on the Property, Seller shall:
☐ Pay off and satisfy all liens prior to or at the time of transfer.
☐ Provide Buyer with a written lien release within [____] days of closing.
☐ Other arrangement: [________________________________]
Section 8.4 — Transfer of Title
Upon receipt of the full Purchase Price, Seller shall deliver to Buyer:
(a) A duly executed original Certificate of Title (or equivalent ownership document) endorsed for transfer to the Buyer;
(b) A completed DC DMV Form DMV-CTA-001 (Certificate of Title/Temporary Registration and Tag Application), if applicable;
(c) All keys, access codes, and remote control devices associated with the Property;
(d) Such other documents as may be reasonably required to effectuate the transfer of title and registration.
ARTICLE IX — VEHICLE-SPECIFIC PROVISIONS
This Article applies only to motor vehicle transactions. If this is not a vehicle transaction, mark "Not Applicable" and proceed to Article X.
☐ Not Applicable — Skip to Article X
Section 9.1 — Odometer Disclosure Statement
Pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 32705 and 49 C.F.R. Part 580, the Seller certifies:
Current Odometer Reading: [________________________________] miles
☐ The odometer reading stated above reflects the ACTUAL mileage of the vehicle.
☐ The odometer reading stated above reflects the amount of mileage IN EXCESS OF the odometer's mechanical limits (i.e., the odometer has rolled over).
☐ The odometer reading is NOT the actual mileage. WARNING — ODOMETER DISCREPANCY.
Federal Odometer Exemption: Vehicles with a model year more than 20 years old are exempt from federal odometer disclosure requirements under 49 C.F.R. § 580.17.
☐ This vehicle qualifies for the federal odometer exemption.
Seller's Signature (Odometer Certification): _________________________________ Date: [__/__/____]
Buyer's Acknowledgment: _________________________________ Date: [__/__/____]
Section 9.2 — Vehicle Condition Disclosure
Mechanical Condition:
| System | Condition | Known Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
| Transmission | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
| Brakes | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
| Suspension | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
| Electrical | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
| Exhaust | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
| Tires | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
| Air Conditioning/Heating | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
| Body/Frame | ☐ Good ☐ Fair ☐ Poor | [________________________________] |
Damage History:
☐ No prior damage history known to Seller.
☐ Prior damage as follows: [________________________________]
Title Status:
☐ Clean Title
☐ Salvage Title
☐ Rebuilt Title
☐ Flood Title
☐ Manufacturer's Buyback (Lemon Law)
☐ Other: [________________________________]
Section 9.3 — DC DMV Title Transfer Process
The parties acknowledge the following requirements for vehicle title transfer in the District of Columbia:
(a) Required Documents for Buyer:
- Original Certificate of Title signed by Seller
- Completed DC DMV Form DMV-CTA-001 (Certificate of Title/Temporary Registration and Tag Application)
- Valid District of Columbia driver's license or identification card
- Proof of current odometer reading
- Proof of insurance for the vehicle
- Lien or lessee contract, if applicable
- Payment for title transfer fees and excise tax
(b) Title Transfer Fee: The current title transfer fee is $26.00 (as of the date of this document).
(c) Processing: New titles are typically mailed within ten (10) business days of submission.
(d) Temporary Tags: The Buyer may obtain a temporary registration tag from DC DMV pending receipt of the new title and permanent registration.
Section 9.4 — DC Vehicle Excise Tax
Pursuant to D.C. Code § 50-2201.03, a vehicle excise tax is imposed upon the issuance of each certificate of title. The tax is based on the fair market value of the vehicle and varies by vehicle weight class and fuel efficiency (MPG).
Traditional Weight-Based Excise Tax Rates:
| Vehicle Weight Class | Base Rate |
|---|---|
| 3,499 lbs or less | 6% of fair market value |
| 3,500 to 4,999 lbs | 7% of fair market value |
| 5,000 lbs or more | 8% of fair market value |
MPG-Adjusted Rates (effective February 17, 2025): Under the Motor Excise Tax Amendment Act of 2024 and the Fiscal Year 2025 Emergency Budget Support Act of 2024, DC DMV calculates the excise tax based on an updated formula that accounts for fuel efficiency. Vehicles below the benchmark standard pay increased tax rates (up to 9%, 10%, or 11% depending on weight class), while vehicles above the benchmark standard pay decreased rates or may receive a rebate.
EITC Exemption: Individuals who claimed and received the District Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for the most recent tax period may elect the lower weight-class rate (6%, 7%, or 8%).
Gift Exemption: Bona fide gifts of vehicles already titled in the District between spouses, parent and child, or domestic partners are exempt from excise tax under D.C. Code § 50-2201.03.
Estimated Excise Tax for This Transaction: $ [________________________________]
Excise Tax Responsibility: ☐ Buyer ☐ Seller ☐ Split: [________________________________]
Section 9.5 — DC Vehicle Inspection Requirements
Pursuant to D.C. Code Title 50, Chapter 11, and 18 DCMR § 601 et seq.:
(a) All vehicles registered in the District of Columbia must have a valid DC inspection sticker. Valid inspection stickers from other jurisdictions are not accepted.
(b) Private passenger vehicles are required to pass emissions inspections every two (2) years. Safety inspections are not required for private passenger vehicles but are required for commercial and for-hire vehicles.
(c) First-time inspections must be conducted at the DC DMV Inspection Station located at 1001 Half Street, SW, Washington, DC. Inspection fees are paid at the time of vehicle registration, not at the inspection station.
(d) The Buyer acknowledges responsibility for obtaining a valid DC inspection sticker upon registration of the vehicle.
Current Inspection Status:
☐ Vehicle has a valid DC inspection sticker. Expiration: [__/__/____]
☐ Vehicle has a valid out-of-jurisdiction inspection (not accepted for DC registration).
☐ Vehicle does not have a current inspection sticker.
Section 9.6 — DC Automobile Consumer Protection Act (Lemon Law)
The parties acknowledge the provisions of the DC Automobile Consumer Protection Act, D.C. Code § 50-501 through § 50-511:
(a) The DC Lemon Law applies only to new motor vehicles during the first 18,000 miles of operation or the first two (2) years following delivery, whichever occurs first.
(b) If this is a used vehicle, the DC Lemon Law does not apply. However, the Buyer may have rights under other DC consumer protection statutes, including D.C. Code § 28-3901 et seq. and D.C. Code § 28:2-314 (implied warranty of merchantability).
(c) Any agreement that waives, limits, or disclaims rights under D.C. Code § 50-501 et seq. is void and unenforceable per D.C. Code § 50-509.
Vehicle Classification for This Transaction:
☐ New Motor Vehicle (Lemon Law applies)
☐ Used Motor Vehicle (Lemon Law does not apply)
Section 9.7 — Emissions and Environmental Compliance
☐ Vehicle has passed a DC emissions inspection within the last two (2) years.
☐ Vehicle is exempt from emissions inspection. Reason: [________________________________]
☐ Vehicle has not undergone a recent emissions inspection. Buyer assumes responsibility for compliance.
Most Recent Emissions Test Date: [__/__/____]
Result: ☐ Pass ☐ Fail ☐ Unknown
ARTICLE X — INDEMNIFICATION
Section 10.1 — Seller's Indemnification
Seller shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Buyer and Buyer's successors and assigns from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, costs, liabilities, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from or related to:
(a) Any breach of any representation, warranty, or covenant made by Seller in this Agreement;
(b) Any undisclosed lien, encumbrance, or claim against the Property existing prior to the date of transfer;
(c) Any claim by a third party asserting ownership or any interest in the Property;
(d) Any inaccuracy in the odometer disclosure statement; and
(e) Any violation of the DC Consumer Protection Procedures Act (D.C. Code § 28-3901 et seq.) attributable to Seller's acts or omissions.
Section 10.2 — Buyer's Indemnification
Buyer shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Seller and Seller's successors and assigns from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, costs, liabilities, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from or related to:
(a) Buyer's use, operation, or possession of the Property after the date of transfer;
(b) Any failure by Buyer to properly register, title, or insure the Property following transfer;
(c) Any taxes, fees, or penalties assessed against the Property after the date of transfer; and
(d) Any personal injury or property damage caused by or related to the Property after the date of transfer.
Section 10.3 — Limitation of Liability
Except for claims arising from fraud, intentional misrepresentation, or a breach of the warranty of title under D.C. Code § 28:2-312, the total aggregate liability of either party under this Agreement shall not exceed the Purchase Price set forth in Article VI.
ARTICLE XI — RISK OF LOSS
Section 11.1 — Transfer of Risk
Risk of loss shall pass from Seller to Buyer as follows:
☐ Upon execution of this Agreement.
☐ Upon physical delivery of the Property to the Buyer.
☐ Upon payment in full of the Purchase Price.
☐ Other: [________________________________]
Section 11.2 — Insurance
The Buyer acknowledges the obligation to obtain appropriate insurance coverage for the Property effective as of the date risk of loss transfers to the Buyer. For motor vehicles, the District of Columbia requires minimum liability insurance coverage for all registered vehicles.
ARTICLE XII — DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Section 12.1 — Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia, including the Uniform Commercial Code as codified at D.C. Code § 28:2-101 et seq., without regard to conflict of laws principles.
Section 12.2 — Dispute Resolution Mechanism
In the event of any dispute, controversy, or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, the parties agree to the following dispute resolution process:
Step 1 — Negotiation: The parties shall first attempt to resolve the dispute through good-faith negotiation within [____] days of written notice of the dispute.
Step 2 — Mediation: If negotiation fails, the parties shall submit the dispute to mediation administered by a mutually agreed-upon mediator in the District of Columbia. The costs of mediation shall be shared equally unless otherwise agreed.
Step 3 — Litigation: If mediation fails or is declined, either party may initiate legal proceedings as provided in Section 12.3.
Section 12.3 — Jurisdiction and Venue
Any legal action arising under this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, or, if federal jurisdiction exists, in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Each party irrevocably consents to the personal jurisdiction of such courts.
Small Claims Division: For disputes involving $10,000 or less (exclusive of interest, attorneys' fees, and costs), either party may file in the Small Claims and Conciliation Branch of the DC Superior Court pursuant to D.C. Code § 11-1321.
Section 12.4 — Attorneys' Fees
In any legal action to enforce or interpret this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees, court costs, and expenses from the non-prevailing party, to the extent permitted by D.C. law.
Section 12.5 — Statute of Limitations
Any action for breach of a sales contract under this Agreement must be commenced within four (4) years after the cause of action has accrued, pursuant to D.C. Code § 28:2-725. The parties ☐ agree ☐ do not agree to reduce the limitations period to [____] year(s), which may not be less than one (1) year per D.C. Code § 28:2-725(1).
ARTICLE XIII — GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 13.1 — Entire Agreement
This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior or contemporaneous negotiations, representations, warranties, understandings, and agreements, whether written or oral, relating to such subject matter. No modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be effective unless made in writing and signed by both parties.
Section 13.2 — Severability
If any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the validity, legality, and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The invalid provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable while preserving the parties' original intent.
Section 13.3 — Waiver
No waiver of any provision of this Agreement shall be effective unless in writing and signed by the waiving party. The failure of either party to enforce any provision of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of that party's right to enforce that or any other provision in the future.
Section 13.4 — Assignment
This Agreement may not be assigned by either party without the prior written consent of the other party, except that the Buyer may assign this Agreement to a trust or entity controlled by the Buyer without Seller's consent.
Section 13.5 — Notices
All notices required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed delivered when: (a) delivered personally; (b) sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid; or (c) sent by nationally recognized overnight courier, to the addresses set forth in Article III or to such other address as a party may designate in writing.
Section 13.6 — Binding Effect
This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns.
Section 13.7 — Counterparts
This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
Section 13.8 — Time is of the Essence
Time is of the essence with respect to all dates and deadlines set forth in this Agreement.
Section 13.9 — Headings
The headings in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the interpretation or construction of this Agreement.
Section 13.10 — Good Faith
The parties agree to act in good faith in the performance of their obligations under this Agreement, consistent with D.C. Code § 28:1-304.
ARTICLE XIV — DC-SPECIFIC PROVISIONS AND DISCLOSURES
Section 14.1 — DC Consumer Protection Procedures Act Compliance
This transaction is subject to the DC Consumer Protection Procedures Act, D.C. Code § 28-3901 et seq. The Seller acknowledges that engaging in unfair or deceptive trade practices in connection with this transaction is unlawful and may result in civil liability, including treble damages under D.C. Code § 28-3905.
Section 14.2 — DC UCC Warranty Protections for Consumers
Pursuant to D.C. Code § 28:2-316.01, the standard warranty exclusion provisions of D.C. Code § 28:2-316 do not apply to sales of consumer goods and services. Sellers in consumer transactions may not exclude or modify implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. However, sellers may note particular defects and limitations of goods conspicuously in writing at the time of sale.
Section 14.3 — DC Anti-Fraud Provisions
Seller certifies that no fraudulent representations have been made in connection with this transaction. Under D.C. Code § 22-3221 et seq., fraud and related offenses are punishable as criminal acts under District of Columbia law.
Section 14.4 — DC Tax Obligations
(a) Vehicle Excise Tax: The Buyer is responsible for payment of the DC vehicle excise tax at the time of title transfer per D.C. Code § 50-2201.03, unless otherwise agreed in Section 9.4.
(b) Sales and Use Tax: The District of Columbia general sales tax rate is 6.0%. Certain personal property transactions may be subject to sales tax. The parties are responsible for determining and remitting all applicable taxes.
(c) Record Retention: Both parties should retain a copy of this Bill of Sale and all related receipts for a minimum of seven (7) years for tax purposes.
Section 14.5 — Seller's Duty to Notify DC DMV
Pursuant to DC DMV requirements, the Seller must notify the DC DMV of the sale of a registered vehicle. Failure to do so may result in the Seller being held liable for parking tickets, traffic violations, and other liabilities incurred by the Buyer after the date of sale.
Section 14.6 — DC Residency and Registration Requirements
If the Buyer is a District of Columbia resident, the Buyer must register the vehicle with the DC DMV within thirty (30) days of establishing residency or acquiring the vehicle, whichever is later. Failure to register may result in fines and penalties.
ARTICLE XV — SIGNATURE BLOCKS
BY SIGNING BELOW, THE PARTIES ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THEY HAVE READ THIS AGREEMENT IN ITS ENTIRETY, UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS AND CONDITIONS, AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY ITS PROVISIONS. EACH PARTY REPRESENTS THAT HE OR SHE IS OF LEGAL AGE, HAS THE CAPACITY AND AUTHORITY TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT, AND SIGNS VOLUNTARILY.
Seller
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
Address: [________________________________]
Co-Seller (if applicable)
☐ Not Applicable
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
Buyer
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
Address: [________________________________]
Co-Buyer (if applicable)
☐ Not Applicable
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
ARTICLE XVI — WITNESS ATTESTATION (Optional)
The District of Columbia does not require witnesses for a bill of sale. However, witness signatures are recommended for evidentiary purposes.
Witness 1
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
Address: [________________________________]
Witness 2
Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
Address: [________________________________]
ARTICLE XVII — NOTARY ACKNOWLEDGMENT (Optional)
The District of Columbia does not require notarization for a bill of sale. However, notarization is strongly recommended to authenticate signatures and enhance the enforceability of this document.
Notary Acknowledgment
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
On this [____] day of [________________________________], [____], before me, the undersigned Notary Public, personally appeared:
Name(s): [________________________________]
☐ Personally known to me, OR
☐ Proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence: [________________________________]
to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.
WITNESS my hand and official seal.
Notary Signature: _________________________________
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Commission Number: [________________________________]
My Commission Expires: [__/__/____]
[NOTARY SEAL]
ARTICLE XVIII — SOURCES AND REFERENCES
The following sources and statutory authorities were consulted in the preparation of this Bill of Sale template:
District of Columbia Code
| Citation | Description |
|---|---|
| D.C. Code § 28:2-101 et seq. | UCC Article 2 — Sales |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-104 | Definition of Merchant |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-105 | Definition of Goods |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-204 | Formation of Contract |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-312 | Warranty of Title |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-313 | Express Warranties |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-314 | Implied Warranty of Merchantability |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-315 | Implied Warranty of Fitness for Particular Purpose |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-316 | Exclusion or Modification of Warranties |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-316.01 | Limitation of Exclusion or Modification — Consumers |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-401 | Passing of Title |
| D.C. Code § 28:2-725 | Statute of Limitations |
| D.C. Code § 28:1-304 | Obligation of Good Faith |
| D.C. Code § 28-3901 et seq. | Consumer Protection Procedures Act |
| D.C. Code § 50-501 through § 50-511 | Automobile Consumer Protection (Lemon Law) |
| D.C. Code § 50-1501.02 | Certificate of Title Requirements |
| D.C. Code § 50-2201.03 | Vehicle Excise Tax and Title Fees |
| D.C. Code Title 50, Chapter 11 | Vehicle Inspection |
| D.C. Code § 11-1321 | Small Claims Jurisdiction |
| D.C. Code § 22-3221 et seq. | Fraud and Related Offenses |
Federal Law
| Citation | Description |
|---|---|
| 49 U.S.C. § 32705 | Federal Odometer Disclosure Requirements |
| 49 C.F.R. Part 580 | Odometer Disclosure Regulations |
DC Government Resources
- DC DMV — Vehicle Title and Registration: https://dmv.dc.gov/service/how-obtain-vehicle-title-and-registration
- DC DMV — Selling a Vehicle: https://dmv.dc.gov/service/selling-vehicle
- DC DMV — Vehicle Inspections: https://dmv.dc.gov/inspections
- DC DMV — Vehicle Excise Tax Fees: https://dmv.dc.gov/book/vehicle-fees/vehicle-title
- DC DMV — Online Excise Tax Estimator: https://online.dmv.dc.gov/ETC/ExciseTaxEstimation
- DC Office of the Attorney General — Lemon Law: https://oag.dc.gov/consumer-protection/consumer-alert-lemon-law
- D.C. Code Online (Official): https://code.dccouncil.gov
This template is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws, regulations, and tax rates are subject to change. Users should verify all statutory citations, tax rates, and procedural requirements with current official sources and consult a licensed District of Columbia attorney before executing this document. The publisher of this template disclaims all liability for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of this template.
Published by ezel.ai — Legal Templates for Solo Practitioners
Last Updated: February 21, 2026
About This Template
A contract is a written record of what two or more parties agreed to and what happens if someone does not follow through. Clear language, defined terms, and clean signature blocks keep disputes small and enforceable. The most common mistakes in contracts come from vague promises, missing details about timing or payment, and skipping standard protective clauses like governing law and dispute resolution.
Important Notice
This template is provided for informational purposes. It is not legal advice. We recommend having an attorney review any legal document before signing, especially for high-value or complex matters.
Last updated: March 2026
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