Free Delaware Bill of Sale Template

A Delaware bill of sale is a written record of a property transfer from a seller to a buyer. It usually lists:

• Buyer and seller names and contact information
• Description of the item sold (including identifying details like VIN, HIN, make/model, or serial number)
• Sale price and payment terms
• Date of the transaction
• Signatures of both parties

In some transactions—especially where a title is missing, an inspection is required, or the item is being registered for the first time—the bill of sale is mandatory. In others, it serves as a useful receipt and legal safeguard.

While Delaware doesn’t always require a bill of sale for every transaction, you will need one in certain cases, including:

• Vehicles: When applying for a certificate of title for a new vehicle purchased from a dealer in Delaware, the application must include a bill of sale or written statement from the dealer, which also shows any lien retained on the vehicle
• Boats: A notarized bill of sale is required for many used vessel registrations, but not in every case.
• Trailers: Recommended for private sales, and often needed for titling and tax calculations.
• Motorcycles: Not always mandatory, but highly recommended to document private sales and avoid disputes.
• Firearms: Not required by law for private sales, but creates a clear record of the transaction and can prove lawful transfer.

• Boats: Used boats require a notarized bill of sale for registration, unless both the buyer and seller appear in person with photo ID.
• Vehicles, trailers, motorcycles, firearms: Not generally required, but notarization is recommended for added protection, especially in out-of-state or high-value transactions.

• Vehicles

  • Register in person at one of Delaware’s four DMV locations (New Castle, Dover, Wilmington, Georgetown).
  • You’ll need the bill of sale, inspection report, application for title, proof of insurance (minimum: $25k bodily injury/person, $50k accident, $10k property damage), and fees.
  • Registration fee is $40; document fee is based on purchase price or average trade-in value if no bill of sale is provided.

  Boats

  • All motorized vessels, including those with electric motors, must be registered with DNREC.
  • Bill of sale is required and must be notarized for used boats.
  • Registration fees vary by vessel length, with annual and 3-year options.
  • Out-of-state vessels using tidal access ramps must have either Delaware registration or a ramp certificate.

  Trailers

  • Must be titled and registered within 30 days of purchase to avoid a $20 late fee.
  • Registration fees range from $15 (under 1,000 lbs) to $40+ depending on weight, plus $18 per 1,000 lbs over 5,000.
  • Document fee depends on purchase price; a notarized bill of sale ensures the correct tax amount.
  • Boat trailers are registered through DNREC, not the DMV.

  Firearms

  • No general registration requirement, but dealers must keep transaction records.
  • Buyers must be 21+ for handguns, 18+ for rifles/shotguns.
  • Handgun purchasers need a permit or must have completed an approved firearms training course in the last 5 years.
  • Open carry is legal without a permit; concealed carry requires a license issued by the Superior Court. A 2018 court decision recognized and strengthened the rights of Delaware residents to bear arms outside of their home.

  Motorcycles

  • Not required to have a bill of sale for in-state transfers, but recommended for tax documentation and title transfers.
  • Transfers require signing the title, completing the seller’s report of sale, and providing proof of insurance.
  • Document fees are 4.25% of the vehicle’s purchase price or the NADA book value, whichever is greater.