Washington Firearm Bill of Sale Overview
Washington enacted universal background checks via Initiative 594 in 2014. All private firearm sales must go through a licensed dealer for a background check. In 2019, I-1639 added a 10-day waiting period for semi-automatic rifle purchases, raised the purchase age to 21, and required training.
All private sales must go through an FFL for a background check. Semi-automatic rifle purchases require additional steps: the buyer must be 21+, show proof of firearm safety training, and wait 10 days. Handgun purchases go through the standard process. Washington issues Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPL) through local law enforcement.
Washington banned the sale and manufacture of assault weapons in 2023 and restricts magazines over 10 rounds (banned sale/manufacture in 2022). NFA items are legal with proper federal registration except for SBRs (state restriction). Washington has a red flag law (ERPO).
Yes
Private sale BG check
10 days (semi-automatic rifles)
Waiting period
No
Registration required
No
Permit to purchase
Washington Firearm Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know about firearm transfers in Washington:
Important: Background Check Required
Washington requires background checks for private firearm sales. All transfers must be conducted through a licensed dealer. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in criminal penalties. Even with a background check, it is illegal to sell to a known prohibited person.
Seller Requirements
- FFL Transfer: Washington requires private sales to go through a licensed dealer for a background check
- Both Parties Present: Both buyer and seller must appear at the FFL with valid identification
- Bill of Sale: Complete a bill of sale documenting the firearm and transaction details
- No Prohibited Buyers: Do not sell to anyone you know or suspect is prohibited from possessing firearms
Buyer Requirements
- Washington Residency: Must be a current Washington resident with valid state ID
- Background Check: Must pass a background check processed through the FFL
- Not Prohibited: Must not be a prohibited person under federal or state law
- Retain Bill of Sale: Keep your copy as proof of legal purchase and ownership
How to Fill Out a Washington Firearm Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Washington firearm bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Washington and federal requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, current Washington mailing address, date of birth, and government-issued ID number (driver's license or state ID). This information is critical for establishing a clear chain of custody for the firearm.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, current Washington address, date of birth, and ID number. Verify the buyer's ID is valid and current. Confirm the buyer is a Washington resident — selling to an out-of-state resident in a private sale is a federal crime.
Describe the Firearm
Record the firearm's make (manufacturer), model, serial number, caliber or gauge, type (handgun, rifle, shotgun), barrel length, and finish/color. The serial number is the most important identifier — verify it matches the physical firearm exactly.
State the Sale Price
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method. If the firearm is a gift, write "$0 — Gift." If a trade, describe the items exchanged.
Include Eligibility Statement
The buyer should sign a statement affirming they are legally eligible to purchase and possess firearms under both federal and Washington law, that they are not a prohibited person, and that they are a resident of Washington.
Sign, Date, and Keep Copies
Both parties must sign and date the bill of sale. Print at least two copies — one for each party. Keep your copy indefinitely as there is no statute of limitations on ATF firearm traces. Remember that the transfer must also be processed through an FFL with a background check.
Washington Firearm Transfer Process
Washington requires private firearm transfers to include a background check. Here's the step-by-step process:
Verify Both Parties' Eligibility
Check IDs to confirm both parties are Washington residents and of legal age. The seller should have no reason to believe the buyer is a prohibited person.
Visit a Licensed Dealer (FFL)
Both parties must appear at an FFL. The dealer will process the background check as required by Washington law.
Complete Background Check
The FFL will run a background check. There is a 10 days (semi-automatic rifles) waiting period before the buyer can take possession.
Complete and Sign the Bill of Sale
Fill in all fields including the serial number, both parties' information, and the sale price. Both parties sign and date.
Exchange Payment and Firearm
Complete the payment and transfer the firearm. Each party keeps their signed copy of the bill of sale.
Store Your Records Securely
Keep your copy of the bill of sale in a safe place indefinitely. This is your proof of legal transfer if the firearm is ever traced.
Washington Firearm Transfer Fees & Costs
Here are the typical costs associated with a private firearm transfer in Washington:
| Fee / Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Background Check Fee | Varies ($10-$40 typically) |
| FFL Transfer Fee | $10-$75 (set by dealer) |
| Firearm Registration | Not required |
| Carry Permit | Varies — contact issuing agency |
Sample Washington Firearm Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Washington-specific firearm bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by Washington and federal law.
STATE OF WASHINGTON
FIREARM BILL OF SALE
Private Party Firearm Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Washington Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Washington Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
FIREARM INFORMATION
Make: [Manufacturer] Model: [Model]
Serial #: [Serial Number]
Caliber: [Cal/Gauge] Type: [Handgun/Rifle/Shotgun]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Washington Firearm Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Washington firearm bills of sale, private transfers, and state requirements.
Official Washington Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify Washington firearm transfer requirements and access government information.
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