Does the DMV Keep the Bill of Sale?

Yes — in most states the DMV keeps a copy of the bill of sale when you submit it with your title transfer and registration paperwork. It becomes part of the vehicle's official record and documents the purchase price used to calculate sales or use tax.

Because the DMV may retain the copy you hand in, both the buyer and seller should keep their own signed copies before submitting anything.

For the seller, a copy is proof they no longer own the vehicle if it is later involved in tickets, tolls, or accidents. For the buyer, it documents the price paid and the transaction date in case of a tax dispute.

Our wizard delivers PDF and Word downloads to both parties, so each side retains a complete record even after one copy goes to the DMV.