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Free Maine Bill of Sale Template

A Maine bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of a vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, motorcycle, or other valuable property. It serves as proof of purchase and may be required for registration or tax purposes with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) or Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

4.8
1,109 Ratings
  • Duration 2 min
  • Download as PDF and Word
  • E-sign included

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

How It works?

1

Choose Your Template

Select the Maine bill of sale that fits your needs—vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle.

2

Fill Out the Details

Provide the buyer and seller’s names, describe the property, include serial numbers, sale price, and date of transfer.

3

Sign & Keep Copies

Notarization is not required in Maine, but keeping copies ensures both parties have proof of ownership transfer.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is a Maine Bill of Sale?
  2. When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Maine?
  3. Does a Maine Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?
  4. Maine-Specific Rules & Requirements

What Is a Maine Bill of Sale?

A Maine bill of sale includes:

  • Names and contact information of buyer and seller
  • Description of the item (year, make, model, VIN/HIN/serial number)
  • Sale price and payment method
  • Date of sale
  • Signatures of both parties (notarization optional)

It provides legal protection by documenting the transaction and confirming the transfer of ownership.

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Maine?

A bill of sale is required or recommended for the following transactions in Maine:

  • Vehicles: Required for private sales and out-of-state dealer purchases. Dealers in Maine also provide one for registration.
  • Boats: A bill of sale is not required to renew a boat registration in Maine. For new registrations or ownership transfers, many municipalities require a notarized bill of sale as proof of ownership.
  • Trailers: Required for registration. Trailers over 3,000 lbs must be titled. Excise tax and 5.5% sales tax apply. Camper and utility trailers can be registered for one or two years.
  • Firearms: Not required by law, but strongly recommended. Maine allows private sales without background checks or waiting periods. A bill of sale documents the transfer for legal protection.
  • Motorcycles: Required for all sales. Must be submitted with a Certificate of Title (if ≥300cc and 1995 or newer), odometer disclosure, excise tax receipt, insurance, and registration application.

Does a Maine Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

  • Vehicles: No.
  • Boats: No. 
  • Trailers: No.
  • Firearms: No, but notarization adds protection.
  • Motorcycles: No.

Maine-Specific Rules & Requirements

  • Vehicle Sales Tax: 5.5% of purchase price, due at registration.
  • Vehicle Excise Tax: Annual, based on the vehicle’s age and MSRP, paid to the local town or municipal office.
  • Boat Registration Fees: Range from $41 to $60 for inland waters and $16 to $35 for tidal waters, depending on horsepower, with personal watercraft set at the highest tier. 
  • Trailer Rules: Non–excess–taxable trailers like utility, ATV, snowmobile, boat, and semi-trailers can be renewed online. Fees are $12.50–$24 for trailers under 2,000 lbs and $22–$43 for those over 2,000 lbs, and stickers arrive in about 7 business days.
  • Firearm Laws: No permit is required to purchase, possess, or openly/concealed carry a firearm if you’re at least 21 (or 18–20 with military status), as long as you’re not otherwise prohibited by law.
  • Motorcycle and Vehicle Insurance: Requires uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage with at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident. This insurance protects you and your passengers if you’re injured in a crash caused by a driver who has no insurance or not enough to cover the damages.