What is a North Dakota Car Bill of Sale?

A North Dakota car bill of sale serves multiple purposes in vehicle transactions, including fulfilling state requirements. As an official record, it confirms essential information such as the sale date, agreed-upon price, and vehicle specifics. This document is often required when registering a newly acquired vehicle, transferring ownership, or paying sales tax. Moreover, it serves as a valuable reference for both parties, documenting the terms of the agreement and protecting against potential disputes. Overall, it provides a secure and reliable means of handling vehicle transactions, ensuring a transparent and legally compliant process.

What are the Buyer’s Tasks?

What are the Seller’s Tasks?

The seller has several essential tasks to complete when selling a car in North Dakota. First and foremost, they must sign the title to the buyer, ensuring they accurately fill out all required fields. The seller is also responsible for providing a completed odometer disclosure statement, essential for vehicles under ten (10) years old. Additionally, they should retain a copy of the completed bill of sale for their records. As a best practice, the seller should notify the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) of the transfer of ownership within ten (10) days of the sale.

When transferring ownership, sellers must also remove the license plate(s) from the vehicle. With the plates removed, the car is considered unlicensed. Following the acquisition, the buyer can operate it without displaying any visible evidence of registration for a maximum of five (5) days. However, the transferee must keep dated proof of ownership inside the vehicle during this time. Acceptable forms of dated evidence include a bill of sale or a copy of the certificate of title with the date included.

How to Register a Car in North Dakota (3 Steps)

Registering a motor vehicle in North Dakota for the first time is a straightforward process handled by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) motor vehicle division. The registration process ensures that all motor vehicles comply with state regulations, promoting safety and order on local roadways.

When registering a motor vehicle in North Dakota for the first time, the process must occur upon establishing residency or accepting employment, whichever comes first. A person is considered a resident after living in the state for ninety (90) days. Full-time students and military personnel are exempt from registration; however, they must display their vehicle’s current license plates from their home state.

Step 1 – Insurance

All vehicles operated on public streets, roads, highways, or off-highway areas must carry a liability insurance policy. Failure to maintain insurance on registered cars can result in the suspension or revocation of vehicle tags and registration by the Motor Vehicle Division until the owner provides proof of North Dakota insurance. When initially registering a vehicle in the state, automobile insurance is mandatory, though not enforced through vehicle registration.

State law requires each motor vehicle to carry a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $25,000 per accident for property damage. Law enforcement officers authorized to issue traffic citations will verify the presence of an insurance card in the vehicle when stopping it for any other statutory violation.

Step 2 – Title & Registration

To title and register a vehicle in North Dakota, obtain the Application for Certificate of Title & Registration of a Vehicle (Form SFN 2872).

Next, complete it by filling in all the required information, including the applicant’s details, vehicle information (such as make, year, and VIN), purchase price, and odometer reading. If the vehicle has any lienholders, provide their information as well. Then, attach proof of ownership, such as the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) for a new vehicle or the previous title or registration for a used car.

Pay the 5% motor vehicle excise tax on the vehicle’s purchase price (if applicable). Additionally, include payment for the title and registration fees, which vary depending on the type of vehicle and its weight. Provide evidence of North Dakota liability insurance, which is mandatory for all registered vehicles in the state.

Finally, bring or mail the completed application, along with all required documents and payments, to the nearest motor vehicle site. After submitting the application and the required fees, the NDDOT processes the request and issues the vehicle’s title and registration certificate. Remember to keep the title safe, as it proves ownership.

Step 3 – Renew

To renew a motor vehicle registration in North Dakota, residents must follow the steps outlined below:

1. Determine the Renewal Period: Vehicle registrations in North Dakota are typically valid for 12 months. The expiration date appears on the registration card and sticker. The vehicle owner should receive a renewal notice in the mail approximately one month before the registration expires.
2. Gather Necessary Documentation: The following documents are required to renew the registration:
   • The current registration card or renewal notice
   • Proof of North Dakota auto insurance
   • Payment for the renewal fees (fees vary depending on the type and weight of the vehicle)
3. Choose a Renewal Method: The vehicle owner can renew the registration online, by mail, or in person.
   • Online: Visit the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) online renewal portal. Follow the screen prompts to enter the required information and pay the renewal fees using a credit or debit card.
   • By Mail: Mail the renewal notice, proof of insurance, and payment (check or money order payable to the “North Dakota Department of Transportation”) to the address listed on the renewal notice.
   • In Person: Visit a local Motor Vehicle office with the renewal notice, proof of insurance, and payment. Residents can find the nearest office by visiting the NDDOT website.
4. Receive the New Registration and Sticker: Once the NDDOT processes the renewal, they provide a new registration card and sticker. The owner must place the sticker on the license plate in the designated area and keep the registration card in the vehicle.

Note: Residents who do not receive a renewal notice can still renew their registration using the same methods. However, they must provide the license plate number and vehicle information.

Individuals who do not renew on time will receive late fees. Prompt renewal helps avoid fines or penalties.