by Armando Martinez
If you're looking to save some money on your next car purchase, buying from a private owner can be a great option. However, there are some additional steps you'll need to take to register the vehicle with the District of Columbia. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Get the Required Documents
The first step in registering a car bought in a private owner car sale is obtaining the necessary documents. You'll need the vehicle title, bill of sale, and odometer disclosure statement (if applicable). If your seller cannot provide you with a title, they’ll need to apply for a duplicate title through the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles or through the state in which the vehicle is titled. In addition, you'll need to bring your valid District of Columbia driver's license to the DMV when you go there in person to register the vehicle.
It's important to note that if you are buying a car from someone who is not licensed by the DMV as an auto dealer or broker, you will also need to provide proof of insurance coverage for both parties involved in the transaction. You should also make sure that any defects or problems with the vehicle are disclosed at the time of registration.
You’ll need to visit a DC DMV service center to obtain a 5 day temporary DC registration to provide you time to get the vehicle inspected and registered. For more information, see the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles page on temporary registration.
Step 2: Get the Car Inspected
Before you can register the car, you'll need to get it inspected. The District of Columbia requires all vehicles to pass a safety inspection before they can be registered. You can either have the inspection done at a licensed inspection station or do it yourself by following the instructions in the District of Columbia's Department of Motor Vehicles inspections page.
When getting the car inspected, make sure to tell the inspector that you bought the car from a private owner. This will help ensure that any safety issues are addressed before registration takes place.
Step 3: Complete the Registration Application
Once you have all the necessary documents and have passed the safety inspection, the next step is to complete the registration application. You can do this either online or in person at a District of Columbia DMV office. You'll need to provide personal information, as well as the vehicle's information, and pay the appropriate fees.
Step 4: Pay the Taxes and Fees
After completing the registration application, you'll need to pay the taxes and fees. You can do this at any DMV service center in the District of Columbia, or you can mail in your payment with a check or money order made out to "DC Treasurer." Make sure that all of your information is correct on both sides of the form before mailing it in.
Step 5: Get Your License Plates
Once you've completed the registration process and paid all the necessary fees, you'll be issued a set of license plates for your new car. These will be sent to the address on record with the DMV. If you need to change that address, make sure to update it with the DMV online or by calling (202) 737-4404.
Conclusion
Registering a car bought in a private owner car sale in the District of Columbia requires some additional steps, but it's a straightforward process as long as you have all the necessary documents and follow the steps outlined above. By doing so, you can get your car registered and on the road in no time. For more information regarding this process, visit the District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles website.
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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