Document Genius

Free North Dakota Bill of Sale Template

A North Dakota bill of sale documents the transfer of ownership of vehicles, boats, trailers, firearms, motorcycles, and other personal property. It provides proof of the transaction, protects both buyer and seller, and may be required for registration with the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) or Game & Fish Department.

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

Select Your Template

Choose the bill of sale form for your item: vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle.

2

Fill Out the Details

Enter buyer and seller names, addresses, and signatures, plus identifying details, purchase price, and date of sale.

3

Sign and File

Both parties sign. Notarization is required for boat sales, and is recommended for protection. Keep copies for your records.

Table of Contents

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

What Is a North Dakota Bill of Sale?

A North Dakota bill of sale is a legal form that proves a transfer of ownership between two parties. It serves as proof of ownership, evidence of the transaction, and supporting documentation for registration.

A valid ND bill of sale should include:

  • Buyer and seller information and signatures
  • Description of the property (make, model, year, VIN/HIN/serial number)
  • Date of sale and purchase price
  • Notary acknowledgment (required for boats)

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in North Dakota?

You’ll need a bill of sale in certain situations to register or document ownership. Below are the most common cases:

  • Vehicles: Required for registration. Purchasers must register their vehicle within 5 days of taking ownership. Odometer disclosures and damage/salvage statements apply to newer vehicles. Insurance minimums: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage.
  • Boats: Required for all motorized vessels. Must be notarized. Boats are registered through the ND Game & Fish Department. Fees: $18 (under 16 ft), $36 (16–20 ft), $45 (over 20 ft). Non-motorized boats (kayaks, rowboats, canoes) are exempt unless a motor is added.
  • Trailers: Required for most trailers. Title and registration required for trailers over 1,500 lbs or used commercially. Exemptions apply for light personal-use trailers, some farm trailers, and motorcycle/ATV haulers. Fees: $20 annually or $120 permanent registration for qualifying trailers.
  • Firearms: Not legally required, but recommended. North Dakota has no firearm registration, purchase permits, or waiting periods. Buyers must still comply with federal law (no sales to prohibited persons). Concealed carry permits are issued to residents 18+ who meet eligibility and training requirements.
  • Motorcycles: Bill of sale not required for registration, but strongly recommended. Buyers must register within 5 days, using the title, odometer disclosure (if applicable), and proof of insurance. A bill of sale can temporarily serve as proof of ownership until registration is complete.

Does a North Dakota Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

Notarization rules depend on the type of property being sold. In most cases, it’s optional, but boats are an exception.

  • Vehicles: Not required.
  • Boats: Not required.
  • Trailers: Not required, though recommended.
  • Firearms: Not required; no state registration system exists.
  • Motorcycles: Not required unless the NDDOT seller’s certificate form is used.

North Dakota-Specific Rules & Tips

North Dakota law has a few unique requirements to keep in mind when completing a bill of sale and registering property:

  • Fast registration deadlines: Vehicles and motorcycles must be registered within 5 days of purchase.
  • Annual renewals: Vehicle and trailer registrations renew yearly unless permanent trailer registration is purchased.
  • Boat fees: In addition to registration, all boat owners must pay a $15 Aquatic Nuisance Species fee.
  • Trailer exemptions: Certain farm trailers, light personal-use trailers (<1,500 lbs), and some specialty trailers are exempt from titling/registration.
  • Firearms: North Dakota is a shall-issue state for concealed carry. Firearm inheritance follows federal rules; no ND-specific inheritance laws.
  • Motorcycles: NDDOT requires proof of insurance and registration fees at the time of titling. Homemade or rebuilt motorcycles may require inspection.