Free Vehicle Bill of Sale Template

A vehicle bill of sale is a written record that shows a vehicle changed hands from a seller to a buyer. It typically includes the sale date, the purchase price, and details that identify the vehicle.

Many people use a bill of sale during a private sale because it helps prevent disputes later. It can also support title and registration steps when the buyer visits the DMV.

To build one quickly, you can use Document Genius’s customizable bill of sale form and answer a few guided questions.

Can You Register a Car With a Bill of Sale and No Title?

In most states, a bill of sale helps, but it does not replace a title. If the title is missing, the buyer usually needs to work with the DMV on next steps before registration.

Start by finding your state’s motor vehicle office using USA.gov’s state motor vehicle services directory. Your DMV can explain options that may apply in your situation, including replacement titles, bonded titles (where available), or additional paperwork.

A strong vehicle bill of sale is clear, specific, and easy to verify. Here’s how to create one step by step.

Step 1 – Add the Sale Date and Location

Write the date the buyer and seller sign. Also include the state where the sale takes place, since local rules can affect registration and paperwork.

Step 2 – List the Price and Payment Details

Include the purchase price and the payment method. If the buyer is paying in installments, consider using a separate agreement to keep the payment plan clear.

• Cash, cashier’s check, money order, or electronic payment
• Any deposit amount, if used
• When the full balance is due, if the payment is split

If the buyer is financing the purchase privately, a loan agreement or promissory note can spell out the repayment terms.

Step 3 – State Whether There Is a Warranty

Clarify whether the seller is providing any warranty, or if the vehicle is sold “as is.” This section can reduce misunderstandings about repairs after the sale.

Step 4 – Describe the Vehicle Clearly

Include the details someone would need to confirm the exact vehicle being sold. For example, list the:

• Make, model, and year
• Body style and color
• Vehicle identification number (VIN)
• Current condition, if you want it documented

A VIN is a 17-character identifier used to distinguish a specific vehicle. You can look up VIN information using NHTSA’s VIN Decoder.

Step 5 – Add Odometer Details When Required

Some transfers require an odometer disclosure. Federal rules also list situations where an odometer disclosure is not required, such as certain older vehicles and certain vehicle types.

For the federal exemptions, review 49 CFR § 580.17 (odometer disclosure exemptions).

Step 6 – Identify the Buyer and Seller

Add the full legal names and addresses for both parties. This keeps the record clear if questions come up later.

Step 7 – Sign, and Notarize If Needed

Many states accept a bill of sale with signatures only, but some situations call for notarization. If you want an extra layer of verification, you can also use a notary acknowledgment.