What should the buyer bring?

Payment, valid ID, and proof of insurance for registration.

How soon must the buyer register?

Deadlines vary by state from 10 to 60 days. See your state's bill of sale page for specifics.

Seller: verify you have a clear title, gather maintenance records, set a fair price, and prepare the vehicle for inspection.

Buyer: research the vehicle history, inspect the car, verify the VIN matches the title, and confirm insurance coverage.

Complete a bill of sale with all required fields. Sign the title assignment with odometer disclosure.

Exchange payment and keys only after all documents are signed. Both parties should keep copies.

Seller: remove license plates (in most states), notify the DMV of the sale, and cancel insurance.

Buyer: obtain insurance, register the vehicle within the state deadline, and pay applicable taxes and fees.

Certificate of title (signed by seller), bill of sale, odometer disclosure, proof of insurance, valid ID, and any state-specific forms.

Create your bill of sale at billandsale.com — $9.99 for a signed PDF and Word download.

Create a state-specific motor vehicle bill of sale with e-signatures. $9.99 per completed sale.

Your title, a bill of sale, and any state-specific forms. Check your state's page on our site for details.

This is not legal advice. Read our disclaimer.