Home Contact Login
Rhode Island Vehicle Bill of Sale
A Bill of Sale is a legal document that provides evidence of the transfer of ownership for a specific item or property. It includes transaction details such as the names and addresses of the buyer and seller, item description, condition (if relevant), sale price, and any warranties or guarantees.
Create documents in two simple steps
Generate Document Answer few questions to generate customized document
Pick Your Preference Create Secure account to E-Sign, Share, Print or Download
The Rhode Island motor vehicle bill of sale is a legally binding agreement that is used to document buying or selling of a motor vehicle and is used specifically in Rhode Island. It documents the sale, records the information of the people involved in the transaction, and is also a prerequisite for registering vehicles in Rhode Island. If the new buyer doesn’t have the bill of sale then the vehicle cannot be registered. In some cases, the bill of sale must be notarized and at other times, it doesn’t need to be. As a rule of thumb, get it notarized. 

Rhode Island doesn’t have any specific laws related to odometer disclosures but there is a federal law that states vehicles more than 10 years old and under 16,000 pounds should have it. Just to cover all your bases, get it done as it only takes an extra minute or two. 

Registering vehicles in Rhode Island

Just like the other states in the Union, cars that are driven in Rhode Island must be registered in the state unless it belongs to a non-resident. When buying from a private individual, this process must be taken care of by the buyer. Usually, the deal will submit the necessary documentation on behalf of the buyer. 

There’s no specific timeframe from purchasing that the new buyer will have to register the motor vehicle but, judging from the common requirements in other states, it’s recommended that you get it done within 30 days at the DMV. After the initial registration, it can be renewed via mail, online, or even in person at the DMV offices. OF course, you’ll choose the method that makes the most sense for you. 

When you’re ready to register the vehicle, show up at a Rhode Island DMV office with the following documentation: 

  • A bill of sale that has been signed by the buyer and seller 

  • An application for registration and certificate of title 

  • Insurance proof that is in line with the requirements for Rhode Island 

  • Drivers license or ID issued by the state 

  • A VIN check 

  • Information related to the gross vehicle weight 

  • Use Tax Form (Form T-334-2)

  • For vehicles younger than the year 2001, a title that has been signed over to the buyer (or proof of previous ownership)

  • Motor vehicle power of attorney (if applicable)

  • Emissions and safety inspection sticker showing the vehicle has passed the tests 

  • Related fees