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Free Massachusetts Bill of Sale Template

A Massachusetts bill of sale documents the transfer of ownership of vehicles, boats, trailers, firearms, motorcycles, and other personal property. It serves as proof of purchase and protects both parties in case of disputes or legal requirements.

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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

Select Your Template

Pick the Massachusetts bill of sale for a vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle.

2

Enter the Details

Add buyer and seller info, item description (VIN, HIN, or serial), and purchase terms.

3

Sign & File

Both must sign and keep copies. Notarization may be required for vehicles or firearms.

Table of Contents

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

What Is a Massachusetts Bill of Sale?

This legal form provides:

  • Names and contact details of buyer and seller
  • Description of the item sold (make, model, year, VIN/HIN/serial)
  • Purchase price and payment method
  • Date of transfer
  • Signatures of both parties (and notarization if required)

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) may require a bill of sale in certain cases, especially if the vehicle is exempt from titling or if the transaction involves a vessel.

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Massachusetts?

  • Vehicles: Required if the vehicle is title-exempt or if the title doesn’t list the purchase price; otherwise, it’s not always needed when the title includes all details, but it’s still strongly recommended for proof of payment, taxes, and legal protection.
  • Boats: Required to register a boat, along with the title (if applicable) and proof of sales tax.
  • Trailers: Required if the trailer is title-exempt or if the title doesn’t show the purchase price, but it’s always recommended for legal protection.
  • Firearms: Not required for firearms in Massachusetts, but some people still use one as extra documentation for their own records.
  • Motorcycles: Required if the motorcycle is exempt from titling (manufactured before 1980). For newer motorcycles, the title plus a bill of sale may be necessary for registration.

Does a Massachusetts Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

Not always, but sometimes:

  • Vehicles: Generally not required unless exempt from titling.
  • Boats: Notarization is not required in Massachusetts, except when dealing with Rhode Island–origin boats.
  • Trailers: Notarization not mandated, but signatures of both parties are required.
  • Firearms: Notarization is not required, but the sale must be reported online.
  • Motorcycles: Not required, but strongly recommended for private sales.

Massachusetts-Specific Rules & Requirements

  • Vehicle Registration: Must be completed within 10 days of purchase. New residents must register as soon as residency is established (typically within 30 days).
  • Insurance Minimums: You must carry insurance with at least $25,000/$50,000 Bodily Injury, $8,000 PIP, $25,000/$50,000 Uninsured Motorist, and $30,000 Property Damage; higher limits and optional coverages are available.
  • Boat Registration: All motor-powered boats used on public waterways must be registered, while non-motorized boats and Coast Guard–documented vessels are exempt.
  • Trailer Registration: All trailers must be registered with the RMV and renewed every 1 or 2 years, requiring an active insurance policy and payment of registration fees.
  • Firearm Laws: Buyers must hold an FID or LTC. Open carry is allowed only with an LTC. Massachusetts does not recognize out-of-state carry permits. LTCs must be renewed once every 5-6 years.
  • Motorcycle Transfers: Models older than 1980 do not require a title; bill of sale and prior registration suffice.