Bill of Sale vs. Title: What's the Difference?

A bill of sale is a receipt documenting the transaction between buyer and seller. It records the sale date, price, and vehicle details.

A certificate of title is the official state document proving ownership of a vehicle. Title transfer at the DMV is what legally changes ownership.

The seller signs the title over to the buyer. The bill of sale documents the terms of the sale and supports tax calculation at registration.

Neither document alone completes the transfer — the buyer must register with the DMV using both.