How to Sell a Car in Washington
- 1). Check the "Private Party Value" of your car on the Kelley Blue Book website (see Resources) by selecting the year, make and model of the vehicle and any special features and entering your Washington zip code.
- 2). Post ads listing your car for sale in your local Washington newspaper and on specialized car sale websites, such as Auto Trader, Sell My Car and Craigslist (see Resources). Include photos if you have the option. Ad prices vary, with some being free. When potential buyers request to see the car, they will also want to view your emissions certificate to make sure the car has passed inspection.
- 3). Fill out all of the necessary paperwork once you have agreed on a selling price with a buyer. You must get the buyer to complete the appropriate section of your vehicle registration. You must complete a bill of sale with the buyer and sign over your car title to the buyer. You can create your own bill of sale, or download a free one from the Cars.com website (see Resources).
- 4). Create your own "report of sale," which should include the date, the vehicle identification number, your name, your address, the buyer's name and the buyer's address. This is for your personal records only.
- 5). File a report of sale with the Washington State licensing department within five days of the sale of the car. You can do this on their website (see Resources). Filing online is free, but if you file in person there may be a fee, which varies by county.
