
You may also need a bill of sale when you register a new car, depending on your location. In 16 states, a vehicle bill of sale is required when buying a used car. Trusted sellers want to follow the law, just like you do as the buyer. If the seller doesn't want to do that, something is going on and you'd be wise to back away from buying that particular vehicle. If you're in Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, Maryland, New Hampshire, or West Virginia, you'll both need to sign in front of a notary. Before you part ways with the seller of the car you just bought, both of you should sign and date the bill of sale. That can make the title transfer easier, and also provide you with more peace of mind. Also include the odometer reading.ĭouble-check all the information, and make sure it's accurate. You can list the year, make, and model, but it's also a good idea to provide the VIN. Last, but certainly not least, it's very important that you provide details about the vehicle, too. That way anyone who looks at the document has all the information they need about when the sale occurred, how much it was for, and who was involved with it. Third, be sure to include the date of the transfer and the sale price of the vehicle. That's especially important if there's something unique to the sale, such as the seller keeping something that would normally go along with the car, or the buyer making payments to the seller.

Second, spell out any conditions that are part of the sale. You can also include email addresses or other information if you want, but it's not strictly necessary. That's usually their names, addresses, and phone numbers. There are some specific details you'll want to include in a bill of sale, to make sure it's seen as valid and contains everything that important about the transaction.įirst, you want to include the identifying information for the buyer and the seller.

It provides information about the sale, and it also helps buyers and sellers prove the vehicle was sold.


What is a Vehicle Bill of Sale?Ī bill of sale for a vehicle is a legal document. Here's what a vehicle bill of sale is, and why you really need one for your next used car purchase. Then you can register your new vehicle quickly and easily, and you won't have to worry about any ownership issues.Īlong with the title and other paperwork you might need for a legal transfer of vehicle ownership, make sure you get a bill of sale. If you're planning on buying a car, you want to make sure you have all the paperwork in order.
