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What Is a Rhode Island Bill of Sale?

A Rhode Island bill of sale is a written record that documents the change in legal ownership of an item. In addition to being required to transfer the ownership through a state agency from one person to another, a Rhode Island bill of sale is an important part of personal record keeping. It can be quite valuable if there is a legal dispute of some kind involving the item.

What Are Some Common Bills of Sale Used in Rhode Island?

The most commonly used bills of sale in Rhode Island are a general bill of sale, a bill of sale for a motor vehicle, a bill of sale for a boat, and a bill of sale for a gun.

How Do I Write a Rhode Island Bill of Sale?

A Rhode Island bill of sale includes certain information about both the buyer and the seller as well as information on the item being sold:

  • The names of the parties (printed)
  • The date of the bill of sale
  • Certain information about the item being sold
  • The amount the item was sold for
  • The signatures of the involved parties
  • In some instances, the bill of sale may need to be notarized

A Rhode Island bill of sale can be written in plain English. There is no need for legal jargon or archaic terms. The important part is to make sure that the bill of sale includes the required elements. If you’re a party listed in a Rhode Island bill of sale, make sure that you have more than one copy of the completed document for your records.

Is a Rhode Island Bill of Sale Required to Register a Motor Vehicle?

Sometimes. A motor vehicle bill of sale is only required for the vehicle registration of non-titled vehicles. Rhode Island does not title vehicles that are the year 2000 or older. To register the vehicle, you'll need to complete a sales tax form and an Application for Title. For non-titled vehicles, you'll also need an Application for Registration and/or Driver License Information. This form is provided online as a PDF by the State of Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles (RI DMV). For salvage vehicles and custom builds, there are other requirements. You can learn more on the Rhode Island DMV website.

Is a Rhode Island Bill of Sale Form Required to Register a Boat?

Yes. A Rhode Island bill of sale is required to register a boat.  This bill of sale requires notarization. You'll also need to complete a Boat Registration Application. You'll also need the certificate of title. To learn more about boat registration requirements for the State of Rhode Island, click here.

Is a Bill of Sale Required to Register a Gun in Rhode Island?

No. A Rhode Island bill of sale is not required to register a gun. Guns are not formally registered unless you are applying for a concealed permit.

Download a PDF or Word Template

Rhode Island Bill of Sale

Rhode Island Vehicle Bill of Sale

Rhode Island Boat Bill of Sale

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