A Texas Bill of Sale is a legal document confirming property transfer from one individual to another. It is an important affidavit that serves as proof of ownership, similar to a receipt but with greater legal significance.
⚖️ Texas Registration Documents (Required)
- Odometer Disclosure Statement
- Title Registration Application – Online PDF Fillable Form
Source: Texas DMV
Texas Laws
A Bill of Sale document is not strictly required by law in Texas, but it is highly recommended as it establishes a strong foundation for ownership rights and can help to avoid potential future legal complications.
What to Include in a Texas Bill of Sale Form?
- The buyer’s name + address
- The seller’s name + address
- Registration Application
- The vehicle/car description (make, model, year, + body style)
- The car’s vehicle identification number (VIN)
- The sale date
- Transaction details (purchase: price, trade, and/or gift)
- The warranty information (sold “as-is”)
- The Odometer Disclosure
- The Federal Law, 49 U.S. Code § 32705, requires a bill of sale to include a verifying statement about the vehicle’s mileage. Vehicles greater than ten years old and over 16,000 pounds are exempt.
How do I get Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)?
The 2019 Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) started on December 28, 2018, after the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) approved the 2019 fees. Enforcement begins on April 30, 2019. Register at www.UCR.gov.
What are the Bill of Sale Signing Requirements? ✍️
Signing Requirements – Both parties must sign. The DMV recommends that both parties visit a County Tax Office together when the seller is transferring the vehicle’s title.
Vessels and Outboard Motors Must be Titled in Texas
- Motorized vessels, (including any sailboat with an auxiliary engine) any length.
- Non-motorized vessels (including sailboats) that are 14 feet in length or longer.
- Internal combustion such as gasoline, diesel, propane powered motors.
- Boat trailers should be registered or titled through the applicant’s local county tax office.
What is a Texas Bill of Sale Form?
In Texas, the process of buying and selling a vehicle requires the completion of a bill of sale. This document is used for the transfer of ownership for types of vehicles, including automobiles, motorcycles, trailers, and boats.
DMV Information
For those dealing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), have a printable form, whether it’s a free template or a PDF.
How to write a Bill of Sale in Texas? 📄
This form includes the vehicle’s identification number, sale amount, names, and signatures of both parties involved. Additionally, firearm and gun sales in Texas also require a similar bill of sale to document the exchange legally and safely.
The Transaction
The form can be specific to different types of transactions, such as auto, trailer, or even mobile home sales. For example, a motor vehicle bill of sale PDF is typically used for cars and trucks, while a boat bill of sale might be more specialized.
State of TX: Motorcycles and Firearm Legal Docs
The state of Texas also provides templates for various forms, including those for motorcycles and firearms, ensuring that all transactions are properly documented.