What is a “bill of sale”?

A bill of sale is a critical legal document that facilitates the transfer of ownership from one party to another in a vehicle transaction. This document typically includes essential details such as the names and addresses of the buyer and seller, the vehicle identification number (VIN), the make and model of the vehicle, the sale price, and the date of the transaction. Having a bill of sale is important because it serves as proof of ownership, which can be needed for registration or in case of disputes over property rights.

By documenting the sale, both parties have a record that can be referred to if there are future questions regarding ownership or if discrepancies arise. This legal acknowledgment helps confirm that the buyer is the rightful owner of the vehicle, securing their rights to the vehicle and informing third parties of this change in ownership. In contrast, a temporary vehicle registration, maintenance records, or temporary driving permits serve very different purposes and do not accomplish the legal transfer of ownership that a bill of sale does.