Vehicle Title Documentation
Bill of Sale for Vehicle Transactions
A proper bill of sale protects both buyer and seller. Here is what it must include and why it matters for title transfer and registration.
A proper bill of sale protects both buyer and seller. Here is what it must include and why it matters for title transfer and registration.
A vehicle bill of sale is a written record of a private-party vehicle transaction. It documents the transfer of ownership from seller to buyer and provides both parties with a paper trail that supports title transfer and registration. While not every state requires a separate bill of sale (some states use the title itself as proof of sale), having one is strongly advisable for any private transaction.
A valid vehicle bill of sale should contain: buyer and seller information (full legal names, addresses, and contact details for both parties), vehicle description (year, make, model, body style, color, and odometer reading at time of sale), VIN (the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number from the dashboard or door jamb), sale price (the agreed purchase price, written out in both numerals and words), sale date (the calendar date the transaction was completed), as-is language (if the vehicle is sold without warranty, this protects the seller from future claims), and signatures (both buyer and seller must sign; some states require a witness or notary).
Florida, Ohio, Nevada, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Montana (in some circumstances) require a notarized bill of sale on private vehicle transactions. Even where notarization is optional, a notarized bill of sale carries more legal weight and is less likely to be challenged during title transfer.
Montana requires a bill of sale as part of the title application packet for any vehicle purchased from a private seller or at auction. The document must show the full purchase price, which Montana uses to calculate any applicable fees. Montana itself has no sales tax, but the record is still required. We include bill of sale preparation as part of our Montana registration service. You do not need to source your own form.