Register & Title a Motorcycle in Washington DC

ATTENTION: Be prepared to satisfy any insurance requirements when you register & title your motorcycle.

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This page will cover the street legal requirements and registration and title process in Washington D.C. and provide some tips on how to register if you bought the motorcycle without a title.

Learn more about motorcycle title transfers in Washington DC.

Washington D.C. Title & Inspection Requirements for Used Motorcycles

  • Does Washington D.C. have an equipment/safety inspection?
    • Not required.
  • Does Washington D.C. require VIN Inspections for motorcycles bought out of D.C.?
    • Not required.
  • Does Washington D.C. require a title for old motorcycles?
    • All motorcycles require a title.

How to Title and Register a Motorcycle in Washington D.C.

You’ll need the following:

  • Signed title.
    • Bill of sale and old registration if bought in a state that doesn’t issue titles.
  • Bill of Sale.
  • Title application.
  • Proof of insurance.
  • Registration and title fees.

Find more information about Washington DC motorcycle registration and registration renewal.

Register a Motorcycle with No Title in Washington D.C.

Option 1: Motorcycles purchased in DC

Before sale is complete, ask previous owner to get a duplicate title:

Learn how to replace a lost motorcycle title in Washington DC.

Option 2: Motorcycles from outside DC

If the motorcycle was bought in a state that requires motorcycle titles:

Option 3: Register in a No-Title State

Register the bike in a non-title, no residency requirement, mail-in registration application state, such as Vermont.

Washington D.C. Street Legal Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

Street legal motorcycles in DC must have:

  • Rearview mirrors.
  • Fenders on both wheels.
  • Passenger footrests and handholds when riding with a passenger.
  • Turn signals.
  • Speedometer.

This information was correct at the time of writing it, but state laws are subject to change.

More Washington DC Motorcycle Resources