New Hampshire Bill of Sale Template for Cars, Trucks, Trailers, and Boats

Buying or selling a vehicle in New Hampshire? A bill of sale is more than just paperwork—it’s essential for documenting the transaction. While it’s not always required for registration, it helps protect both parties from legal disputes.

New Hampshire Bill of Sale Form

Whether buying from a private seller or a dealer, this document guarantees a clear and straightforward transfer of ownership. Get a free New Hampshire bill of sale today.

What is the New Hampshire Bill of Sale For?

A New Hampshire bill of sale provides security when buying or selling a vehicle, boat, or trailer. It is a written record of the transaction, ensuring both parties agree on the terms and preventing potential misunderstandings.  

Without a bill of sale, buyers may struggle to prove ownership, and sellers could still be held liable for the vehicle. This simple document helps avoid complications and makes the transfer process smoother and more secure.

Get a Vehicle History Report in New Hampshire or a Window Sticker

Before completing your purchase, wouldn’t you want to know everything about the vehicle’s past? A bill of sale verifies the transaction but won’t uncover hidden problems like stolen records, accidents, damages, etc. That’s why a vehicle history report is a must.

What Details Are Included in the Vehicle History Report?

A VIN check from Detailed Vehicle History provides a detailed insight into a vehicle’s history. Here’s what your report will cover.

Sellers can also highlight their vehicle’s original specs with a window sticker, detailing standard and optional features, packages, MSRP, safety ratings, and more.

Get instant access to accurate vehicle details with our window sticker lookup tool!

What's Included in a Window Sticker?

Our window sticker lookup provides all original factory details for your vehicle.

What Does the Bill of Sale Contain?

A properly structured bill of sale is more than a simple receipt—it’s a detailed record of the transaction. It should contain:

  • Buyer and seller details – Full names and addresses
  • Vehicle information – Make, model, year, VIN, and mileage
  • Sale price – The agreed-upon amount
  • Date of sale – The official transfer date
  • Signatures – Both parties must sign for validity

Including these elements ensures a well-documented sale, reducing the risk of future disputes.

Why You Need a Bill of Sale?

Why Sellers Need a Bill of Sale

Selling a car in New Hampshire? You don’t want to be liable for anything that happens after the vehicle leaves your possession. A New Hampshire bill of sale provides proof of the transaction and confirms the transfer of ownership. Without it, you could still receive tickets or fines linked to the vehicle.

This document is especially important if the buyer delays the title transfer. In New Hampshire, buyers must transfer the title promptly to avoid issues. A bill of sale documents the sale date, helping protect you from potential legal or financial complications.

Why Buyers Need a Bill of Sale

A bill of sale is more than just paperwork—it’s your proof of ownership and an added layer of protection if any issues arise. If the title transfer is delayed, this document verifies the sale and ensures your rights as the new owner.

It can also help settle disputes and may be required for vehicle registration, insurance, or addressing legal and financial matters after your purchase.

What to Check Before Buying a Car!

Aside from getting the bill of sale, you may check the background of the vehicle you are about to buy by utilizing these tools.

Check the vehicle history

Avoid costly mistakes by verifying past accidents, title issues, and undisclosed damages.

Look for flood damage

Some areas have a high risk of water-damaged vehicles. A flood damage check helps identify unsafe cars.

Verify the odometer reading

Odometer fraud is common, with sellers rolling back mileage to increase value.

Be informed about the title

Checking the title is important before you decide to buy the car, as nobody wants to buy a car with a bad title.

Check for theft records

You don’t want to be stuck with a stolen vehicle. Check for theft records and avoid legal issues.

Get the service record

Buying a used car means you need to check the service record to ensure that past owners regularly serviced the car.

How to Register a Vehicle in New Hampshire?

In Minnesota, all motor vehicles must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) before being legally driven. Follow these steps to complete the process:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

Before visiting the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), make sure you have:

  • Signed Title – The seller must correctly transfer it to you.
  • Valid ID – A New Hampshire driver’s license or ID.
  • Proof of Residency – Required if registering for the first time.
  • Proof of Insurance – Mandatory for registration.
  • VIN Verification – Needed for out-of-state vehicles (can be done at the DMV or a licensed dealer).
  • Registration Fees – Costs vary by vehicle type and location.

Step 2: Visit Your Local Town or City Clerk’s Office

In New Hampshire, vehicle registrations are first processed at your local town or city clerk’s office before being finalized at the DMV. Bring all required documents.

Step 3: Register Your Vehicle

Complete your registration by:

  • Submitting the necessary paperwork.
  • Paying the registration fees.
  • Receiving your license plates and registration sticker.

Step 4: Transfer the Title

Ensure the vehicle title is officially transferred to your name. New Hampshire law requires title transfers to be completed within 20 days to avoid penalties.

Step 5: Keep Your Documents Secure

After registering, store your title, registration, and plates in a safe place.

How to Register a Vessel in New Hampshire?

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

To register your boat, have the following ready:

  • Bill of Sale – Proof of purchase signed by both parties.
  • Boat Title – Required for vessels over 12 feet long.
  • Valid ID – A New Hampshire-issued driver’s license or ID.
  • Proof of Payment – Receipt for registration fees.

HIN Verification – Some boats require a Hull Identification Number (HIN) inspection.

Step 2: Visit a New Hampshire Boat Registration Office

Bring your documents to a New Hampshire DMV office or an authorized boat registration agent.

Step 3: Complete the Registration

Finish the process by:

  • Submitting your paperwork.
  • Paying the registration fees.
  • Receiving your boat registration number and decals.

Step 4: Renew Your Registration on Time

New Hampshire boat registrations must be renewed annually. Make sure to renew on time to avoid penalties.

Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale by State

Each state has its own requirements for an auto bill of sale. Click below to find the template for your state!

Frequently Asked Questions

A bill of sale is not always required in New Hampshire, but it is recommended for private-party vehicle sales as proof of purchase. If the vehicle is a 1999 model or older, a bill of sale is required for titling and registration.

To sell a car privately in New Hampshire:

  1. Sign the title over to the buyer (if the vehicle requires a title).
  2. Provide a bill of sale with details like buyer and seller info, vehicle details, sale price, and date.
  3. Remove the license plates before handing over the car.
  4. The buyer must take the title and bill of sale to the DMV for registration.

A bill of sale is important in New Hampshire as it serves as legal proof of ownership transfer, protecting both the buyer and seller. It is especially crucial for vehicles that do not require a title, helping with registration and tax documentation.