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Free Maryland Bill of Sale Template

A Maryland bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership for vehicles, boats, trailers, firearms, motorcycles, or other personal property. It acts as proof of purchase and is required for certain registrations and tax purposes.

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  • 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 Maryland bill of sale for a vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle, depending on what you're selling.

2

Enter the Details

Add buyer and seller info, item description (VIN, HIN, or serial), sale price, and date of transfer.

3

Sign & Notarize

Both parties sign. Most Maryland forms need notarization and may be required for registration or title transfer.

Table of Contents

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

What Is a Maryland Bill of Sale?

The Maryland bill of sale provides:

  • Names and contact details of buyer and seller
  • Item description (make, model, year, VIN/HIN/serial number)
  • Sale price and date of transfer
  • Odometer reading (for vehicles/motorcycles)
  • Signatures of both parties and a notary public

It is required by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) and other agencies in specific situations, especially for vehicles under 7 years old sold below book value.

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Maryland?

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

  • Vehicles: Required for private party sales and must be notarized if the vehicle is under 7 years old and sold for $500 or more below book value when the buyer wants taxes based on the sale price.
  • Boats: Required in Maryland to transfer ownership of a boat, and must be submitted when applying for a new title or registration.
  • Trailers: Not always required if the title shows value, but a bill of sale is necessary when the sale price or trailer value must be verified. All trailers must be titled and registered within 60 days.
  • Firearms: All regulated firearm transfers (handguns and certain long guns) must go through the MSP 77R application process with the Maryland State Police, which serves as the official record of the transfer. That process replaces the need for a separate bill of sale.
  • Motorcycles: Only required if the motorcycle is 7 years old or newer and the sale price is at least $500 below book value, when the buyer wants taxes assessed on the sale price instead of the book value.

Does a Maryland Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

Yes — unlike many states, Maryland generally requires notarization.

  • Vehicles: Required when the vehicle is under 7 years old and sold below book value.
  • Boats: Required if original title does not contain all sale details.
  • Trailers: May be required if sale price is not reflected on the title.
  • Firearms: Strongly recommended, especially for regulated firearms.
  • Motorcycles: Required when the motorcycle is  under 7 years old and sold below book value.

Maryland-Specific Rules & Requirements

  • Excise Tax: Vehicle buyers must pay a 6.5% excise tax when titling a vehicle. 
  • Vehicle Registration: New residents must register within 60 days.
  • Boat Trailers: Unlike vessels, these are registered through the Maryland MVA, not DNR.
  • Firearm Laws:  Anyone buying, renting, or transferring a regulated firearm must complete the Maryland State Police (MSP) 77R application and undergo a background check, which includes a mandatory 7-day waiting period before taking possession. 
  • Carry Permits: A handgun permit holder may keep carrying on an expired permit if a renewal application was submitted at least two weeks before expiration, until the renewed card is issued.
  • Motorcycle Insurance: Minimums are $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000 for two or more persons, and $15,000 property damage.