Bills of Sale
Private Vehicle Sale Checklist
A step-by-step checklist for selling a car, truck, motorcycle, ATV, or trailer privately. Gather the right documents and complete the sale correctly.
Before the sale
Gather the vehicle title, current registration, and maintenance records. Confirm the title is in your name and that there are no undisclosed liens. Order a vehicle history report. Check your state's title-transfer and license-plate requirements. Determine a fair asking price using market data.
Meeting the buyer
Meet in a safe, public location. Allow the buyer to inspect the vehicle and review the title and records. Accompany a test drive — verify the buyer has a valid driver's license. Be prepared to answer questions about the vehicle's history, condition, and any known issues. Disclose material defects honestly.
The bill of sale
A bill of sale records the transaction details: buyer and seller names, vehicle description including VIN, sale price, date, and odometer reading. Both parties should sign. Some states require notarization. Locke Direct offers a state-aware Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale that includes the required fields and execution instructions.
Payment
Accept payment through a secure method. For in-person sales, a cashier's check or cash is common. For higher-value transactions, consider meeting at the buyer's bank to verify funds. Provide a receipt. Never release the vehicle or title until payment has cleared.
After the sale
Sign over the title to the buyer. Complete a release of liability or notice of transfer with your state's DMV. Remove the license plates (in most states). Cancel your insurance. Keep copies of the signed bill of sale, title transfer, and release of liability for your records.
Related document
Create the legal document that goes with this guide.
Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale →Frequently asked questions
Do I need a bill of sale if I have the title?
In most states, the title transfer is the primary ownership document. However, a bill of sale provides an additional written record of the transaction terms — price, date, odometer reading, and both parties' acknowledgment. Some states require a bill of sale for private transactions. Even when not required, it is recommended as a receipt and record.
What if the title is lost?
You will need to obtain a duplicate title from your state's DMV before selling the vehicle. Most states require the title to transfer ownership. A bill of sale alone is generally not sufficient.
Does the bill of sale need to be notarized?
Notarization requirements vary by state. Some states require a notarized bill of sale; others do not. Locke Direct's guided Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale applies your state's requirements.
Related guides
Last reviewed July 28, 2026.