Bill of Sale6 min readFebruary 22, 2026
Car Bill of Sale: Complete Guide for Private Vehicle Sales
Selling or buying a car privately? A bill of sale protects both parties. Here's your complete guide.
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Car Bill of Sale: Complete Guide
A vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership from seller to buyer.
Why You Need a Bill of Sale
- Legal protection for both parties
- Required by DMV in most states
- Proof of purchase for registration
- Tax documentation for sales tax
Essential Information to Include
Vehicle Details - Year, make, and model - VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) - Odometer reading - License plate number
Transaction Details - Sale price - Date of sale - Payment method
Party Information - Buyer's full name and address - Seller's full name and address - Signatures from both parties
State Requirements
Most states require a bill of sale for: - Title transfer - Vehicle registration - Sales tax calculation
Tips for a Smooth Transaction
- 1Verify the VIN matches the title
- 2Check for liens on the vehicle
- 3Get a vehicle history report
- 4Meet in a safe, public location
- 5Accept secure payment methods
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