How to Write a Bill of Sale for a Car
Selling or buying a car privately? A bill of sale for an automobile is your proof of the sale: price, VIN, odometer reading, and both signatures. This guide covers what to include and which states want their own DMV form or a notary, then lets you fill one out and preview it free before you download.
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Table of Contents
1. What is a Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership from seller to buyer. It serves as proof of purchase and is often required by the DMV when registering a vehicle in the new owner's name.
Why You Need a Bill of Sale:
- Required for DMV registration in most states
- Protects both buyer and seller legally
- Documents the sale price for tax purposes
- Provides proof of ownership transfer date
2. Required Information
A legally valid vehicle bill of sale must include:
🚗 Vehicle Information
- • Year, Make, Model
- • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- • Current odometer reading
- • License plate number
- • Color and body style
👤 Seller Information
- • Full legal name
- • Address
- • Signature and date
- • Driver's license number
👤 Buyer Information
- • Full legal name
- • Address
- • Signature and date
- • Driver's license number
💰 Sale Details
- • Sale price (numbers and words)
- • Payment method
- • Date of sale
- • "As-is" or warranty terms
3. State Requirements
Bill of sale requirements vary by state. Here's a quick overview:
| State | Required? | Notarization |
|---|---|---|
| California | Yes | No |
| Texas | Yes | No |
| Florida | Yes | No |
| New York | Yes | No |
| Louisiana | Yes | Yes |
| Maryland | Yes | Yes |
⚠️ Important: Always check your state's DMV website for the most current requirements. Some states have specific forms that must be used.
4. Step-by-Step Writing Guide
Step 1: Gather Vehicle Documents
Have the title, registration, and any maintenance records ready.
Step 2: Verify VIN
Check the VIN on the vehicle matches the title exactly.
Step 3: Record Odometer Reading
Federal law requires accurate odometer disclosure for vehicles under 20 years old.
Step 4: Document Sale Price
Write the amount in both numbers and words to prevent disputes.
Step 5: Both Parties Sign
Seller and buyer must sign, preferably with a witness.
5. Tips for Private Party Sales
✓ Do:
- • Meet in a public place
- • Accept certified checks only
- • Keep a copy of the bill of sale
- • Remove plates before handing over
- • Cancel insurance after sale
✗ Don't:
- • Accept personal checks
- • Leave sale price blank
- • Sign blank documents
- • Forget odometer reading
- • Skip the VIN verification
6. Create Your Bill of Sale
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