Vehicle Bill of Sale
for Private Party Sales
Selling your car privately? Generate a complete bill of sale with federal odometer disclosure and as-is clause, accepted by all US state DMVs.
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What's in your DMV bill of sale
Complete Vehicle Record
Year, make, model, VIN, odometer reading, color, and license plate, everything your state DMV needs to process the title transfer.
Federal Odometer Disclosure
Required by federal law (49 U.S.C. § 32705) for vehicles under 10 years old. Auto-included when applicable based on the vehicle year.
Dual Signature Blocks
Separate signature and date lines for seller and buyer. Print two copies, one for each party to keep after signing.
Why every private car sale needs a bill of sale
Protects the seller from future liability once the vehicle changes hands
Documents the agreed sale price for the buyer's insurance and registration
Required by most state DMVs alongside the signed title for title transfer
Establishes the exact sale date, relevant for tax and registration deadlines
As-is clause protects the seller from post-sale disputes about vehicle condition
What to do with your document
- 1Both buyer and seller sign the document in each other's presence, each party keeps a signed original.
- 2The seller files a Notice of Release of Liability with the state DMV immediately (most states allow online filing, free of charge).
- 3The seller notifies their auto insurance company that the vehicle has been sold.
- 4The buyer brings the signed bill of sale and signed title to the DMV within the state's required window (typically 30 to 90 days) to complete title transfer.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bill of sale required to transfer a car title?▾
Requirements vary by state, but most DMV offices require a bill of sale alongside the signed title to process a title transfer. Even where it's technically optional, it protects both parties and documents the agreed sale price (which determines sales tax).
Does a federal odometer disclosure need to be on the bill of sale?▾
For vehicles under 10 years old, yes, federal law (49 U.S.C. § 32705) requires a written odometer disclosure at the time of sale. This can appear on the title or as a separate document, including the bill of sale.
What is a Release of Liability and why does the seller need to file it?▾
A Release of Liability is a form you file with the state DMV to notify them the vehicle has changed hands. Without it, you remain on record as the registered owner and can be held liable for parking tickets, toll violations, or accidents that occur after the sale.
Can the buyer drive the car home before getting it registered?▾
Typically yes, with a signed bill of sale and the state's temporary permit rules (varies by state). The buyer should verify their state's rules before driving. Most states give 30 to 90 days to complete title transfer and registration.
kweldoc documents are drafting tools, not legal advice. Title transfer requirements vary by state, verify specific requirements with your state DMV before completing the sale. kweldoc is not a law firm.