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Free New York Bill of Sale Template

A New York bill of sale documents the transfer of ownership of vehicles, boats, trailers, firearms, motorcycles, and other personal property. It serves as a receipt of the transaction, protects both buyer and seller, and is often required for registration with the New York DMV.

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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

Choose the form for your transaction type: vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle.

2

Complete the Form

List buyer and seller details, describe the property, and record the purchase price and sale date.

3

Sign and File

Both parties sign. Notarization may be required for firearm transactions in some counties. Submit the bill of sale to the DMV.

Table of Contents

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

What Is a New York Bill of Sale?

A New York bill of sale is a legal form that proves a property transfer between two parties. It provides:

  • Proof of ownership for the buyer
  • Evidence of sale for the seller
  • Required documentation for DMV registration

A valid New York bill of sale should include:

  • Names, addresses, and signatures of buyer and seller
  • Description of the property (make, model, year, VIN/HIN/serial number)
  • Sale price and date
  • Optional notary acknowledgment (required in some firearm cases)

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in New York?

You’ll need a bill of sale in the following situations:

  • Vehicles: Required for all private sales and gifts. Buyers must register their vehicle within 180 days of insurance activation. Out-of-state title transfers from certain states (e.g., KY, MT, PA, NC) must be notarized.
  • Boats: Required for all vessel sales. Boats 14 feet or longer and all motorized vessels newer than 1987 must be titled or registered. Fees range from $22 to $75, depending on length.
  • Trailers: Required for registration. Trailers over 1,000 lbs unladen (or manufactured after 1973) must have a title. Smaller/older trailers can transfer ownership with a transferable registration. Annual renewal is due December 31.
  • Firearms: Strongly recommended. New York requires background checks and licensing for all firearm sales, including private transfers. Handguns must be licensed, and “assault weapons” must be registered. Some counties require notarization.
  • Motorcycles: Processed under the same rules as vehicles. A bill of sale is required for registration and proof of purchase.

Does a New York Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

  • Vehicles: Not required, unless transferring an out-of-state title from specific states (e.g., KY, MT, PA, NC).
  • Boats: Not required, but recommended for added protection.
  • Trailers: Not required, but the DMV requires a signed bill of sale for registration.
  • Firearms: May require notarization in some counties for handgun applications or transfers.
  • Motorcycles: Not required unless involving certain out-of-state titles.

New York-Specific Rules & Tips

  • Vehicle registration: Must be done within 180 days of insurance activation. DMV requires proof of insurance, bill of sale, Statement of Transaction (Form DTF-802), and completed registration/title application (Form MV-82).
  • Insurance minimums: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, $10,000 property damage.
  • Boat sales: Dealers issue MV-50 (Dealer’s Bill of Sale). Private sellers must provide both a bill of sale and title transfer.
  • Trailer rules: Safety inspection required annually. Registration fees are $5.39 per 500 lbs gross weight, with a minimum of $14.38.
  • Firearms: All private sales require a background check through a licensed dealer, unless transferring to immediate family. Assault weapons must be registered under NY law.