Oregon Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Form

SAVE PDF EMAIL
PDF

An Oregon motor vehicle bill of sale form verifies a car’s ownership transfer from one party to another. This form is filled out and signed during private and dealership sales, establishing the transaction details. The information includes the sale price, the identity of the buyer and the seller, and the car’s make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN). Having a completed bill of sale form is recommended for personal record keeping; it can serve as a valuable tool in resolving any future disputes related to the transaction.

  • Statutes: Chapter 803
  • Signing Requirements: All buyers and sellers must sign the document.

What is an Oregon Car Bill of Sale?

An Oregon car bill of sale ensures a seamless ownership transition during an automobile transfer. It is also essential for registration as the state uses it to identify the purchaser, seller, and vehicle. Furthermore, it helps to determine the taxes from the assessed value on the document.

Beyond these primary uses, the form also protects both parties involved. For buyers, it guarantees they are purchasing a vehicle free of liens, while for sellers, it confirms they are no longer responsible for the car after the sale date. This level of protection and transparency makes the form vital in Oregon’s vehicle transactions, promoting accountability and preventing potential legal complications.


What are the Buyer’s Tasks?

In an Oregon motor vehicle transaction, the buyer has several key responsibilities to ensure a smooth and legal transfer of ownership. Before the transaction, the buyer should thoroughly research the vehicle’s history, current condition, and fair market value. They may also want to arrange a pre-purchase inspection by a professional mechanic. The buyer should review and sign the form during the transaction, ensuring accurate information. They should include the vehicle’s details, the sale price, and the seller’s information. They should also ensure the seller provides a signed and completed title certificate.

After the transaction, the buyer’s tasks involve visiting the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to register the car in their name and apply for a new title. Lastly, the buyer should store copies of all documents related to the sale and registration for their records. By carefully following these steps, buyers can secure their new vehicle’s ownership and maintain compliance with Oregon’s laws and regulations.


What are the Seller’s Tasks?

When carrying out an Oregon motor vehicle transaction as a seller, there are several stages of preparation and execution. Before the transaction, the seller must ensure the vehicle is in a sellable condition and gather all necessary documentation, including the vehicle’s title. They should also ascertain the vehicle’s fair market value to determine a reasonable asking price.

During the sale, the seller is responsible for providing the other party with an accurately completed Oregon motor vehicle bill of sale and the vehicle’s title. The form should detail the vehicle’s information, sale price, and the identities of both themselves and the buyer. After each person has reviewed and signed the document, the seller should hand it and the title over to the new owner.

Post-sale responsibilities include notifying the Oregon DMV about the sale, which helps absolve the seller from any future liabilities related to the vehicle. This step can be done online or in person and should be completed promptly after the sale. Furthermore, keeping a copy of the signed bill of sale and other transaction documents is advisable for record keeping and potential future references. By adhering to these steps, sellers can ensure a legally compliant and smooth transfer of ownership.


How to Register a Car in Oregon (4 Steps)

Registering a vehicle in Oregon is a multi-step process. It requires specific documentation that the owner must complete according to specific timelines.

After acquiring a vehicle, the resident must secure auto insurance, as Oregon law requires proof of the policy during registration. Within thirty (30) days of the vehicle purchase, the owner should apply for a title and register the vehicle at their local DMV office.

Individuals who live in the Portland-Metro or Medford-Ashland areas must also bring their car for emissions testing before registration. Once registered, they must renew the tags every two (2) years to ensure it remains legally operable on Oregon’s roads.

Step 1 – Insurance

In Oregon, obtaining car insurance is necessary before registering and titling any newly purchased vehicle, whether used or brand new. The state mandates that all vehicle owners carry minimum liability coverage: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $20,000 for property damage per accident.

Additionally, drivers must have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage of $15,000 and uninsured motorist coverage equal to the bodily injury liability limits. Once the policy is in place, the new owner receives proof of insurance, which must be presented to the DMV when registering and titling the car. The owner safeguards their vehicle by meeting these insurance requirements while ensuring compliance with Oregon state law.

Step 2 – Emissions Inspection

In Oregon, an emissions inspection is a prerequisite for registering and titling certain vehicles.

This requirement primarily affects vehicles in the Portland-Metro and Medford-Ashland areas due to higher pollution levels in these regions. Most gasoline-powered cars, trucks, and vans older than 1975 and with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less are subject to this inspection.

If the car passes the inspection, the owner receives a certificate of compliance, which they must have for vehicle registration. Vehicle owners contribute to Oregon’s efforts to maintain clean air quality by adhering to these emissions requirements.

Step 3 – Title & Registration

To receive a title and registration, the owner can visit the DMV website to obtain and complete the necessary forms. The required documents are the Application for Title and Registration (Form 735-226) and the Bill of Sale (Form 735-501), which records the transaction details between both parties. For vehicles that fall within the model year of 2011 or later and are less than 20 years old, disclosure of the odometer reading is a mandatory requirement.

Once the forms are filled out and signed, the applicant must prepare the additional paperwork, including proof of ownership (i.e., the previous title or Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin for new vehicles). They must also provide identification, proof of insurance, and a valid emissions test if they live in the Portland-Metro or Medford-Ashland area.

Lastly, the owner must submit the necessary payment for the title and registration fees. Once the individual gathers the completed forms, required paperwork, and fees, they must visit a local DMV office or mail the information to the main branch.

Step 4 – Renew

In Oregon, car registrations typically last two (2) years, after which the owner must renew.

To renew a car registration, the owner must receive a renewal notice from the DMV, which arrives by mail. The document includes a renewal access code that the individual can use to renew online at the state’s website.

If renewing by mail, the owner must fill out the provided form and mail it back along with the necessary payment to the address indicated. For in-person renewals, they should bring the notice to any local DMV office along with payment for renewal fees.

Vehicles requiring an emissions test must also undergo inspection before renewal. Starting the process on time ensures that the registration remains valid and the owner is not driving an illegally tagged car.

Mailing Address:
Oregon DMV
1905 Lana Ave NE
Salem, OR 97314