Is this bill of sale legally binding?

A bill of sale is a legal record of a private transaction. When completed accurately and signed by both parties, it is generally accepted as proof of ownership transfer in most US states, Canadian provinces, and other jurisdictions. Requirements vary by location — some states require notarisation for vehicle transfers. Always check your local DMV or motor registry requirements.

Do I need a bill of sale to sell a car privately?

In most US states and Canadian provinces, a bill of sale is strongly recommended and often required to transfer vehicle ownership, register the vehicle in the buyer's name, and protect both parties legally. Some states like Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and West Virginia legally require a bill of sale for vehicle transfers.

What should a bill of sale include?

A complete bill of sale should include: full legal names and addresses of buyer and seller, a full description of the item being sold, the sale price and payment method, the date of sale, odometer reading for vehicles, VIN or serial number where applicable, an as-is clause, and signatures from both parties.

Do I need to notarise a bill of sale?

Notarisation requirements vary by state and item type. For vehicle sales, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, West Virginia, and Maryland require notarisation. For firearms, a bill of sale is separate from federal background check requirements. Most general property sales do not require notarisation. Check your specific state or province requirements.

Can I use this for a firearm sale?

Yes, this generator includes a firearm bill of sale template. Important: a bill of sale does not replace federal, state, or provincial legal requirements for firearm transfers. In the US, sales through a licensed dealer require a background check. Private sales rules vary significantly by state. Always comply with all applicable laws before transferring a firearm.

How many copies of a bill of sale do I need?

Both the buyer and seller should keep a signed copy. For vehicle sales, you may need an additional copy for your state DMV or motor registry. Print at least two copies and have both parties sign both — or download two PDFs.

Bill of Sale Generator

Generate a free, professional bill of sale for vehicles, boats, firearms, or general property. Covers US, Canada, UK, and Australia. Free PDF download, no signup.

What are you selling?

Country

Seller Details

Full Legal Name *

Street Address

City

State

Phone (optional)

Buyer Details

Full Legal Name *

Street Address

City

State

Phone (optional)

Vehicle Details

Year *

Make *

Model *

VIN *

Colour

Odometer Reading *

Unit

License Plate (optional)

Sale Details

Sale Price *

Payment Method

Date of Sale *

Sold "as-is" — no warranties

Seller makes no guarantees about condition, fitness, or merchantability.

Additional Terms (optional)

Live Preview

BILL OF SALE

Vehicle

Seller

—

Buyer

—

Vehicle

—

Sale Details

Sale Price—

Payment—

Date—

ConditionSold As-Is

Signatures Required

Seller Signature & Date

—

Buyer Signature & Date

—

Both parties should sign the printed document. Requirements vary by jurisdiction.

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How to create a bill of sale

Choose your sale type (vehicle, boat, firearm, or general property) and your country. The form updates to show the relevant fields.
Enter the seller and buyer details — full legal names and addresses are important for a legally sound document.
Fill in the item details — for vehicles include the VIN and odometer; for firearms include the serial number and caliber.
Set the sale price, payment method, and date. Check "sold as-is" if applicable (recommended for private sales).
Review the live preview, then download your PDF. Print two copies — one for each party. Both must sign.