Free New Hampshire Bill of Sale Template

A New Hampshire bill of sale documents the legal transfer of ownership between a buyer and a seller. It acts as proof of the transaction and may be required for registration. A valid bill of sale usually includes:

• Buyer and seller’s names, addresses, and signatures
• Description of the property (VIN/HIN/serial number, make, model, year, etc.)
• Sale date and purchase price
• Notary acknowledgment when required

The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) recommends keeping a bill of sale even when not mandatory, as it protects both parties and provides a clear sales record.

A bill of sale is required or recommended in several situations:

• Vehicles: Not required for most private sales. However, it is required when transferring ownership of title-exempt vehicles (e.g., cars manufactured before 1999, RVs, mopeds, or certain boats). Buyers must register through both their local city/town clerk and the state DMV. Out-of-state buyers need a 20-day temporary plate.
• Boats: Required for any boat powered by a motor or longer than 12 feet. Registration is annual and expires on December 31. Fees range from $24 (under 16 ft) to $92 (45+ ft), plus small state surcharges.
• Trailers: Required for registration. Trailers under 3,001 lbs do not need titles, but those above this weight do. Bills of sale are essential for registration and proof of ownership.
• Firearms: Not legally required, but strongly recommended. New Hampshire law allows open and concealed carry for those 18 or older without a permit. However, concealed pistol/revolver licenses are available for reciprocity with other states.
• Motorcycles: Required if the motorcycle is title-exempt (1999 or older). For titled motorcycles, a bill of sale is optional but provides valuable proof of the transaction.

Notarization rules vary:

• Vehicles: Not required for most private sales, but helpful for title-exempt vehicles.
• Boats: Not required. 
• Trailers: Not required, but recommended.
• Firearms: Not required.
• Motorcycles: Not required, though notarization adds credibility.

Key details for buyers and sellers:

• Vehicle registration: New Hampshire registration is a two-part process. Begin with the town or city clerk, then complete the process with the state DMV. Fees include local and state charges, plus an $8 plate fee for new plates.
• Insurance minimums: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage. Proof is required for vehicle registration. New Hampshire does not have a compulsory auto insurance law. Drivers aren’t required to carry insurance, but they must still be able to prove they can cover costs if they’re found at fault in an accident. For this reason, insurance is strongly recommended even though it isn’t mandatory.
• Boat registration: Must be handled in person through a local agent, DMV drop box, or by mail. Boats are exempt from titling, even if registered.
• Trailer rules: Titles required for trailers over 3,001 lbs. Smaller trailers require only registration with proof of ownership.
• Firearm restrictions: Prohibited persons (felons, certain drug convictions, those under federal restrictions) cannot purchase firearms. Private handgun sellers may only sell to buyers they personally know unless the buyer has a license.
• Motorcycles: Title-exempt motorcycles require a bill of sale and VIN verification. Buyers must register within 60 days of purchase (new residents only).