Car Bill of Sale: Free Printable Template, PDF & Blank Form

A Car Bill of Sale is a written document used to record the sale of a motor vehicle from a seller to a buyer. It provides a detailed record of the transaction, including the names of the parties, vehicle information, purchase price, payment terms, date of sale, and signatures.

A bill of sale can be useful when buying or selling a new or used car, particularly in a private-party transaction. It gives both parties a written record of what was agreed upon and can help establish important details if questions arise after the sale.

A typical car bill of sale includes the vehicle’s make, model, year, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), mileage, purchase price, and condition, along with the buyer’s and seller’s information.

However, a bill of sale is not necessarily a replacement for a vehicle title or other documents required by the state. Title transfer, registration, taxes, odometer disclosures, and other requirements can vary by jurisdiction. Buyers and sellers should check the requirements that apply to their particular transaction.

Free Printable Car Bill of Sale Template

A Free Printable Car Bill of Sale Template provides a convenient way to document a private vehicle sale without creating the form from scratch.

PDF

Download Car Bill of Sale PDF

The form can be printed and completed by hand or used as a reference when preparing a digital agreement. Both the buyer and seller should review the information carefully before signing and retain a completed copy.

What Is a Car Bill of Sale?

A car bill of sale is a written record of a vehicle transaction between a buyer and seller. It identifies the vehicle and documents the main terms agreed upon by the parties.

The document commonly records:

• Buyer’s full name and contact information
• Seller’s full name and contact information
• Vehicle year, make, and model
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Odometer reading
• Vehicle color
• Purchase price
• Payment method
• Date of sale
• Vehicle condition
• Warranty or “as-is” terms
• Additional agreements
• Buyer and seller signatures

The exact information required can vary depending on the state and type of transaction.

Why Use a Car Bill of Sale?

A written record can make a private vehicle transaction easier to understand and document.

A car bill of sale can help:

• Record the agreed purchase price
• Identify the vehicle being sold
• Document the date of the transaction
• Identify the buyer and seller
• Record the vehicle’s condition
• Document payment terms
• Clarify warranty or as-is provisions
• Support certain title or registration processes where accepted
• Provide a transaction record for both parties
• Reduce misunderstandings about the terms of the sale

For a high-value transaction such as a vehicle sale, keeping written documentation can be especially useful.

Information to Include on a Car Bill of Sale

A well-prepared car bill of sale should contain enough information to clearly identify the parties, vehicle, and terms of the transaction.

Buyer Information

Include the buyer’s:

• Full legal name
• Address
• Phone number
• Email address, when appropriate

The buyer’s information identifies the person purchasing the vehicle.

Seller Information

Include the seller’s:

• Full legal name
• Address
• Phone number
• Email address, when appropriate

The seller should also confirm that they have the authority to sell the vehicle and should disclose relevant ownership or lien information.

Vehicle Information

The vehicle section should provide enough detail to distinguish the car from other vehicles.

Common information includes:

• Year
• Make
• Model
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Body style
• Color
• Odometer reading
• License plate number, when applicable
• Title number, when applicable

The VIN should be copied carefully and checked against the vehicle and title documents.

Purchase Price and Payment Method

The bill of sale should clearly state the amount the buyer and seller agreed upon.

The payment section can include:

• Total purchase price
• Deposit amount
• Remaining balance
• Payment method
• Payment date
• Installment terms, if applicable

Payment may be made by cash, check, bank transfer, electronic payment, or another agreed method.

If the buyer has not paid the full amount when the bill of sale is signed, the remaining balance and payment schedule should be clearly documented.

Vehicle Condition

The condition of the vehicle is an important part of a private car sale.

The bill of sale may describe the vehicle as:

• New
• Used
• Reconditioned
• In working condition
• Damaged
• Sold with known defects
• Sold “as-is”

Known mechanical, cosmetic, or safety-related issues should be disclosed accurately where required or appropriate.

The buyer should have an opportunity to inspect the vehicle and, particularly for a used car, may want to obtain an independent inspection before completing the purchase.

“As-Is” Car Sale

An “as-is” sale generally means that the buyer accepts the vehicle in its current condition, subject to applicable law and any specific promises or warranties made by the seller.

An as-is provision can help clarify that the buyer is purchasing a used vehicle based on its condition at the time of sale.

However, an as-is statement should not be treated as a guarantee that the seller has no legal responsibilities. Laws concerning fraud, required disclosures, consumer protection, express warranties, and other matters may still apply.

Any known material defects or specific promises made by the seller should be addressed honestly in the agreement.

Odometer Reading and Disclosure

The bill of sale can record the vehicle’s mileage at the time of the transaction.

For example, the document may include:

Odometer Reading: __________ miles

Certain vehicle sales are subject to federal or state odometer disclosure requirements, and a bill of sale may not replace a separate odometer disclosure statement when one is required.

Buyers and sellers should follow the applicable odometer requirements for the vehicle and jurisdiction.

Vehicle Title and Bill of Sale

A car bill of sale and vehicle title are different documents.

A bill of sale records the transaction between the buyer and seller. A title is an official ownership document issued or recognized by the appropriate government authority.

Depending on the state, completing a vehicle sale may require:

• Signed vehicle title
• Bill of sale
• Odometer disclosure
• Registration application
• Proof of identification
• Proof of insurance
• Tax documentation
• Lien release
• Inspection or emissions documentation
• Other state-specific forms

Therefore, a buyer should not assume that a bill of sale alone completes every title or registration requirement.

Does a Bill of Sale Transfer Ownership?

A bill of sale documents the sale and the parties’ agreement, but it does not necessarily replace the legal title-transfer process.

The exact requirements for transferring ownership vary by state. Some jurisdictions require a properly assigned title and additional paperwork before the buyer can register the vehicle.

For this reason, the buyer and seller should complete all required title and registration procedures in addition to preparing a bill of sale.

Free Bill of Sale for Car

PDF

A free car bill of sale template can be used as a convenient starting point for documenting a private vehicle transaction.

Before signing, compare the information on the form with the vehicle, title, identification documents, and other transaction records.

Key Sections of a Car Bill of Sale

1. Document Title

Use a clear heading such as Car Bill of Sale or Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale.

2. Date of Sale

Record the date on which the transaction takes place.

3. Seller Information

Enter the seller’s complete name and contact details.

4. Buyer Information

Enter the buyer’s complete name and contact details.

5. Vehicle Description

Record the year, make, model, VIN, mileage, color, and other identifying details.

6. Purchase Price

Enter the total amount agreed upon by the parties.

7. Payment Information

State how the purchase price was paid or will be paid.

8. Vehicle Condition

Describe the vehicle’s condition and any important known issues.

9. Warranty Terms

State whether a warranty applies or whether the vehicle is sold without a warranty or on an as-is basis.

10. Title and Lien Information

Record relevant information about the vehicle title and disclose any applicable lien or financing interest.

11. Additional Terms

Include agreements about accessories, repairs, delivery, pickup, deposits, or remaining payments.

12. Signatures

Provide spaces for the buyer and seller to sign and date the document.

13. Witness or Notary

Include a witness or notary section when required or desired.

Notarization of a Car Bill of Sale

Not every car bill of sale needs to be notarized.

Whether notarization is required depends on the state, type of transaction, and applicable government requirements. Some parties may choose to have their signatures notarized for additional verification.

A notary generally verifies the identity of the signer and acknowledges or witnesses the signing according to applicable notarial procedures. Notarization does not automatically replace a vehicle title, registration form, or other required paperwork.

Before notarizing a bill of sale, check the requirements that apply to the specific transaction.

Additional Terms You Can Include

A car bill of sale can contain additional terms when they are relevant to the transaction.

Examples include:

• Delivery date
• Pickup location
• Delivery responsibility
• Accessories included with the vehicle
• Number of keys provided
• Spare tire
• Owner’s manuals
• Service records
• Repair agreements
• Deposit information
• Remaining balance
• Warranty terms
• Return terms, if agreed
• Other special conditions

Any additional agreement that is important to the transaction should be written clearly rather than relying on a verbal promise.

Delivery of the Vehicle

The parties may document when and where the vehicle will be delivered or collected.

The agreement can include:

• Delivery date
• Pickup date
• Delivery location
• Person responsible for transportation
• Transportation costs
• When possession changes hands

This can help clarify the practical arrangements surrounding the transaction.

Seller’s Responsibilities After Selling a Car

A seller should check the applicable state requirements after completing a vehicle sale.

Depending on the jurisdiction, the seller may need to:

• Sign and transfer the title correctly
• Provide required disclosures
• Remove or transfer license plates when required
• Notify the appropriate state agency of the sale
• Cancel or update insurance when appropriate
• Keep a copy of the bill of sale
• Keep proof of payment or other transaction records

A bill of sale by itself may not automatically remove all responsibilities from a seller. Completing the required state-specific procedures is important.

Buyer’s Responsibilities After Purchasing a Car

After purchasing the vehicle, the buyer should:

• Obtain the properly assigned title
• Keep the signed bill of sale
• Complete title-transfer requirements
• Apply for registration
• Obtain required insurance
• Pay applicable taxes and fees
• Complete required inspections or emissions testing
• Keep copies of all transaction documents

The deadlines for these steps can vary by state.

Tax and Registration Considerations

A vehicle purchase may involve sales tax, use tax, title fees, registration fees, or other charges.

The amount and method of payment depend on the jurisdiction and circumstances of the transaction.

The buyer should check the applicable state or local requirements rather than assuming that the bill of sale alone satisfies tax or registration obligations.

Vehicle History and Condition Disclosure

A bill of sale can record the vehicle’s condition at the time of purchase, but it may not replace other required vehicle-history or disclosure documents.

Before purchasing a used vehicle, a buyer may want to review:

• Vehicle history report
• Title history
• Odometer information
• Maintenance records
• Accident history
• Inspection records
• Recall information
• Lien information

Sellers should provide any disclosures required by applicable law.

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How to Write a Bill of Sale for a Car

Creating a car bill of sale is straightforward when you have all the relevant information.

Step 1: Enter the Sale Date

Record the date of the transaction.

Step 2: Identify the Seller

Write the seller’s full legal name and contact information.

Step 3: Identify the Buyer

Enter the buyer’s complete information.

Step 4: Describe the Vehicle

Include the year, make, model, VIN, mileage, color, and other relevant identifiers.

Step 5: State the Purchase Price

Enter the total amount agreed upon.

Step 6: Record the Payment Method

Specify whether payment was made by cash, check, transfer, or another method.

Step 7: Describe the Condition

Record the vehicle’s condition and known defects as appropriate.

Step 8: Add Warranty or As-Is Terms

Clearly state whether the vehicle is covered by a warranty or sold without one.

Step 9: Add Additional Conditions

Include any special terms agreed upon by the buyer and seller.

Step 10: Review the Information

Check the VIN, names, price, mileage, dates, and other important information carefully.

Step 11: Sign the Document

Both parties should sign and date the completed bill of sale.

Step 12: Keep Copies

The buyer and seller should each retain a signed copy with their other vehicle records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect VIN

A single incorrect character in the VIN can create problems. Compare it with the vehicle and title documents before signing.

Missing Purchase Price

Always record the agreed price clearly.

Incomplete Buyer or Seller Information

Use complete legal names and accurate contact information.

Forgetting the Odometer

Record the mileage and complete any separate disclosure required by law.

Not Checking the Title

A bill of sale does not necessarily replace the vehicle title.

Leaving Blank Spaces

Complete important sections before signing to reduce the possibility of later alterations or misunderstandings.

Ignoring State Requirements

Vehicle-sale requirements can differ significantly between states.

Relying Only on an As-Is Clause

An as-is provision does not necessarily eliminate obligations imposed by law or protect a seller who has engaged in fraud or failed to make legally required disclosures.

Car Bill of Sale vs. Receipt

A receipt generally confirms that money was paid for an item.

A bill of sale provides more detailed information about the transaction and can identify:

• Buyer
• Seller
• Vehicle
• Purchase price
• Payment terms
• Condition
• Warranty terms
• Date of sale
• Signatures

For a private vehicle transaction, a bill of sale can therefore provide a more complete written record than a simple payment receipt.

Car Bill of Sale vs. Vehicle Title

These documents serve different purposes.

Document	Main Purpose
Bill of Sale	Records the sale and agreed transaction terms
Vehicle Title	Establishes official ownership according to the applicable jurisdiction
Registration	Authorizes the vehicle’s registration and use according to state requirements
Odometer Disclosure	Records mileage when required
Receipt	Confirms payment

A vehicle transaction may require several of these documents.

What Should a Buyer Check Before Buying a Used Car?

Before paying for a used vehicle, consider checking:

• VIN
• Vehicle title
• Seller’s identity
• Ownership history
• Outstanding liens
• Odometer reading
• Vehicle history
• Accident history
• Maintenance records
• Mechanical condition
• Tires
• Brakes
• Lights
• Engine
• Transmission
• Inspection requirements
• Emissions requirements
• Insurance requirements

For a higher-value vehicle, an independent inspection can be a worthwhile precaution.

What Should a Seller Do Before Selling a Car?

Before completing a private sale, the seller should:

1. Confirm ownership of the vehicle.
2. Locate the vehicle title.
3. Check for outstanding liens.
4. Gather the VIN and vehicle information.
5. Determine the agreed price.
6. Disclose required information.
7. Complete the bill of sale.
8. Complete the title transfer correctly.
9. Provide required disclosures.
10. Keep copies of the signed documents.
11. Follow any state-specific notification requirements.

Free Printable Bill of Sale for Car

PDF

A printable car bill of sale can provide a simple format for recording the essential terms of a private vehicle transaction.

Before using a generic template, verify whether your state requires a specific government form or additional documents.

Car Bill of Sale for Parts

A standard car bill of sale is designed for the sale of a complete vehicle. If the transaction involves individual vehicle parts rather than the entire car, a separate Bill of Sale for Car Parts may be more appropriate.

A parts bill of sale can be used for items such as:

• Engines
• Transmissions
• Wheels
• Tires
• Batteries
• Body panels
• Seats
• Electronic components
• Accessories
• Other removable vehicle components

The document should clearly identify each part being sold and distinguish the transaction from the sale of the entire vehicle.

Information for a Car Parts Bill of Sale

A parts transaction can include:

• Buyer information
• Seller information
• Part name
• Manufacturer
• Part number
• Serial number, when available
• Quantity
• Condition
• Vehicle compatibility
• Purchase price
• Payment method
• Warranty terms
• Pickup or shipping details
• Signatures

The seller should make sure they have the legal right to sell the parts and should accurately describe their condition.

Legal Considerations for Selling Car Parts

Some vehicle components may be subject to special laws, environmental requirements, safety rules, or restrictions.

Before selling certain parts, consider:

• Ownership of the parts
• Applicable warranties
• Condition disclosures
• Sales tax requirements
• Shipping restrictions
• Environmental regulations
• Hazardous-material rules
• Restrictions affecting particular components

For example, batteries, fluids, airbags, and certain emissions-related components may be subject to specific handling, transportation, or legal requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a car bill of sale?

A car bill of sale is a written document that records the sale of a vehicle between a buyer and seller. It typically includes the vehicle information, buyer and seller details, purchase price, date of sale, payment terms, condition, and signatures.

What should be included on a bill of sale for a car?

A car bill of sale should generally include the buyer’s and seller’s information, vehicle year, make, model, VIN, mileage, purchase price, payment method, sale date, vehicle condition, warranty or as-is terms, and signatures.

Does a bill of sale prove ownership of a car?

A bill of sale provides evidence of the transaction, but it may not replace a vehicle title or other ownership documentation required by the state.

Does a bill of sale transfer the title of a car?

Not necessarily. A bill of sale documents the sale, while title transfer is generally completed according to the requirements of the applicable state or jurisdiction.

Do I need a bill of sale to sell a car?

The requirement varies by state. Even when it is not mandatory, a bill of sale can be useful because it provides a written record of the transaction.

Is a bill of sale required to buy a used car?

Requirements differ by jurisdiction. Some states require or accept a bill of sale as part of the title or registration process, while others rely primarily on the vehicle title and other documents.

Does a car bill of sale need to be notarized?

Not always. Some states or transactions may require notarization, while others do not. Check the applicable state requirements before signing.

Can I write my own car bill of sale?

Yes, a private-party car bill of sale can often be created by the buyer and seller, provided it contains the necessary information and complies with applicable requirements.

Can a car bill of sale be handwritten?

A handwritten bill of sale may be acceptable in many situations if the applicable law does not require a specific format. It should be clear, complete, and signed by both parties.

Who keeps the original car bill of sale?

Both the buyer and seller should keep a completed copy of the signed bill of sale. The buyer may need it for records or certain title and registration procedures, while the seller should retain it as evidence of the transaction.

Should the VIN be included on the bill of sale?

Yes. Including the VIN is highly recommended because it uniquely identifies the vehicle.

Should mileage be included?

Yes. The mileage should be recorded accurately, and any separate odometer disclosure required by law should also be completed.

Can I sell a car “as-is”?

A vehicle can often be sold as-is in a private transaction, subject to applicable law. The agreement should accurately state the vehicle’s condition and should not be used to conceal defects or avoid legally required disclosures.

Can I use a generic bill of sale in every state?

A generic bill of sale may be useful for many private transactions, but vehicle-sale requirements vary by state. Some states have specific forms or additional documentation requirements.

What documents should I give the buyer when selling a car?

Depending on the state, the buyer may need the properly assigned title, bill of sale, odometer disclosure, lien release, maintenance records, and other required documents. The exact requirements should be checked with the relevant state agency.

What should I do after selling my car?

The seller should complete the required title-transfer paperwork, provide the buyer with the necessary documents, notify the appropriate agency when required, update or cancel insurance as appropriate, and retain copies of the transaction records.

Car Bill of Sale Checklist

Before completing the sale, review the following:

• Buyer’s full legal name is correct.
• Seller’s full legal name is correct.
• Contact information is complete.
• Vehicle year is correct.
• Make and model are correct.
• VIN matches the vehicle and title.
• Mileage is recorded accurately.
• Purchase price is correct.
• Payment method is documented.
• Vehicle condition is described accurately.
• Known issues are disclosed as appropriate.
• Warranty or as-is terms are clear.
• Title and lien information has been checked.
• Additional agreements are recorded.
• Required signatures are completed.
• Both parties receive a copy.
• State title and registration requirements have been checked.

Final Thoughts

A Car Bill of Sale is a practical document for recording the important terms of a private vehicle transaction. By identifying the buyer, seller, vehicle, purchase price, payment details, condition, and date of sale, it creates a clear record that both parties can keep for future reference.

However, a bill of sale should not be viewed as a substitute for the vehicle title or other documents required by law. Title transfer, registration, taxes, odometer disclosures, insurance, and seller-notification requirements can vary from one state to another.

For the smoothest transaction, the buyer and seller should verify the vehicle’s VIN and ownership documents, agree on the condition and price, complete the bill of sale accurately, sign and exchange copies, and finish all state-required transfer procedures.

A few minutes spent preparing accurate paperwork can make a private car sale much clearer and help both parties maintain a reliable record of the transaction.