As-Is Bill of Sale: What It Means

An as-is bill of sale is a bill of sale that states the vehicle is sold in its current condition with no warranty. Once the buyer signs, they accept the vehicle's condition and the seller is not responsible for repairs or defects discovered after the sale.

Most private party vehicle sales are as-is by default because state lemon laws generally apply only to dealers selling new vehicles. Stating it in writing removes any ambiguity and protects the seller.

In California, private party sales are generally as-is — the seller is not required to provide a warranty. An as-is clause on your California bill of sale documents that the buyer accepted the vehicle in its current condition.

An as-is bill of sale does not replace California DMV Form REG 262 or other required title transfer paperwork. It supplements those forms and records the terms of the sale.

Our wizard includes as-is warranty language by default for private sales. You can keep the standard as-is clause or specify different terms if the buyer and seller agree to a warranty.

The as-is clause appears clearly on the finished document alongside the sale price, odometer disclosure, and both signatures.