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Free Iowa Bill of Sale Template

An Iowa bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of property between a buyer and seller. It’s commonly used for vehicles, boats, trailers, motorcycles, and firearms. Iowa law often requires the form to be notarized before it can be used for registration or title applications.

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Written by Josh Sainsbury | Attorney-Reviewed by Harvey Barbee, J.D.

How It works?

1

Select Your Form

Pick the Iowa bill of sale template for your item, such as a vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle.

2

Fill in the Details

Enter buyer and seller names, describe the item, include identification numbers, sale price, and the date of the transaction.

3

Sign and Notarize

Both parties must sign the form. In Iowa, most bills of sale also need to be notarized to meet legal requirements.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is an Iowa Bill of Sale?
  2. When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Iowa?
  3. Does an Iowa Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?
  4. Iowa-Specific Tips and Common Scenarios

What Is an Iowa Bill of Sale?

An Iowa bill of sale:

  • Provides proof of purchase and ownership transfer
  • Includes the buyer’s and seller’s names, contact information, and signatures
  • Describes the property (make, model, year, VIN/HIN, condition)
  • Records the purchase price and payment method
  • Establishes a notarized record that protects both parties

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Iowa?

A bill of sale is required or recommended in the following cases:

  • Vehicles: Required to title and register your vehicle at the county treasurer’s office. The application must be signed by all owners, and a bill of sale is required. Registration must be completed within 30 days of establishing residency in Iowa (or promptly after purchase). Notarization is not generally required.
  • Boats: Required for registration. Must include hull ID, vessel specs, and purchase price. Notarization is required.
  • Trailers: Required for registration and titling of trailers over 2,000 pounds. A notarized bill of sale can serve as proof of ownership if the original registration is missing.
  • Firearms: Not legally required for private sales, but recommended to document proof of a lawful transfer. Must follow state age restrictions (18+ for rifles/shotguns, 21+ for handguns).
  • Motorcycles: Required to register a motorcycle. Must be notarized and submitted along with title, odometer disclosure, proof of insurance, and fees within 30 days.

Does an Iowa Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

Yes, in most cases.

  • Vehicles: Notarization is not required.
  • Boats: Notarization is not required.
  • Trailers: Notarization is required if used as proof of ownership (when no title or MCO is available).
  • Motorcycles: Notarization is not required.
  • Firearms: Notarization is not required by law, but some choose to notarize for added legal validity.

Iowa-Specific Tips and Common Scenarios

  • Sales Tax: Iowa charges a 6% sales/use tax on most transactions, with possible additional county or local taxes.
  • Vehicles: Must be registered within 30 days. Insurance minimums: $20,000 (injury per person), $40,000 (per accident), $15,000 (property damage).
  • Boats: Must be registered within 30 days (private sale) or 35 days (dealer sale). Exemptions include very small inflatables, canoes under 13 ft. without motors, and research vessels.
  • Trailers: Must be registered with the county treasurer’s office, with fees based on trailer type and weight.
  • Motorcycles: Must be titled and registered through the county treasurer’s office, with proper ownership documents and manufacturer certification required.
  • Firearms: Does not require firearm registration, but permits to acquire or carry weapons are still available through county sheriffs for those who want them.