New Mexico Bill of Sale Template for Cars, Trucks, Trailers, and Boats
Buying or selling a vehicle in New Mexico? A bill of sale is more than just paperwork—it’s essential for recording the transaction. While it’s not always required for registration, it helps protect both parties from potential legal issues.
New Mexico Bill of Sale Form
Whether purchasing from a private seller or a dealership, this document ensures a smooth and transparent transfer of ownership with clearly outlined terms.
What is the New Mexico Bill of Sale For?
In private vehicle sales, a bill of sale is essential since the buyer and seller handle the transaction directly. It provides legal proof, documenting key details such as the sale price, date, and vehicle or vessel information.
Even when purchasing from a dealership, a bill of sale offers added security. It ensures transparency, helps prevent disputes, and serves as a backup record if any issues arise.
Get a Vehicle History Report in New Mexico or a Window Sticker
Before completing your purchase, wouldn’t you want to know everything about the vehicle’s past? While a bill of sale confirms the transaction, it won’t uncover hidden issues like stolen records, accidents, damages, etc. That’s why a vehicle history report is crucial.
What Details Are Included in the Vehicle History Report?
A VIN check from Detailed Vehicle History provides a comprehensive view of a vehicle’s history. Here’s what your report will cover.
- Mileage
- Ownership History
- Sales History
- Usage History
- Accident History
- Lien & Loans
- Recalls History
- Flood Damage
- Title Brand
- Warranty Status
- Salvage Title
- Repair Cost
- Hail Damage
- Ownership Duration
- Accident History
- Maintenance Schedule
Sellers can also highlight their vehicle’s original specs with a window sticker, detailing features, packages, MSRP, safety ratings, and more.
Get instant, 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.
- MSRP & Pricing
- Optional Equipment
- Warranty Details
- Engine Specs
- Exterior Features
- Color Codes
- Standard Features
- Safety Ratings
- Fuel Economy
- Interior Features
- Packages & Options
- Manufacturing Info
What Does the Bill of Sale Contain?
A bill of sale is more than a simple receipt—it’s a detailed record of the transaction. It should contain:
- Buyer & seller information – Full names and addresses
- Vehicle details – 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 details helps ensure a transparent, well-documented sale, reducing the chance of future disputes.
Why You Need a Bill of Sale?
Why Sellers Need a Bill of Sale
Selling a car in New Mexico? You don’t want to be responsible for anything that happens after the vehicle is out of your hands. A bill of sale acts as proof of the transaction and confirms the transfer of ownership. Without it, you could still receive fines or tickets tied to the vehicle.
This document is especially important if the buyer delays transferring the title. In New Mexico, buyers must complete the title transfer promptly. A bill of sale records the sale date, protecting you from potential legal or financial issues.
Why Buyers Need a Bill of Sale
A bill of sale isn’t just paperwork—it’s your proof of ownership and protection if any issues come up. If the title transfer is delayed, it verifies the sale and secures your rights as the new owner.
It can also help settle disputes and may be required for registration, insurance, or handling 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 Mexico?
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before visiting the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), ensure you have:
- Signed Title – The seller must properly transfer ownership.
- Valid ID – A New Mexico driver’s license or ID.
- Proof of Insurance – Required for vehicle registration.
- Emissions Test – Needed for certain vehicles in Bernalillo County.
- VIN Inspection – Required for out-of-state vehicles.
- Registration Fees – Costs vary based on the vehicle’s weight and type.
Step 2: Visit an MVD Office
Bring all required documents to your local MVD office. If you purchased the vehicle from a dealer, they may handle the registration for you.
Step 3: Register Your Vehicle
Complete the registration by:
- Submitting the necessary paperwork.
- Paying the registration fees.
- Receiving your license plates and registration documents.
Step 4: Transfer the Title
Ensure the vehicle title is officially transferred to your name. In New Mexico, title transfers must be completed within 30 days to avoid penalties.
Step 5: Keep Your Documents Safe
Store your title, registration, and insurance documents securely for future reference.
How to Register a Vessel in New Mexico?
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
To register a boat in New Mexico, you’ll need:
- Bill of Sale – Proof of purchase signed by both parties.
- Boat Title – Required for vessels over 10 feet long.
- Valid ID – A New Mexico-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 an MVD Office
Take your documents to an MVD office or an authorized boat registration agent.
Step 3: Complete the Registration
Finalize the process by:
- Submitting your paperwork.
- Paying the applicable fees.
- Receiving your boat registration number and decals.
Step 4: Renew Your Registration on Time
New Mexico boat registrations must be renewed annually. Renew before the expiration date 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
Is a bill of sale required in New Mexico?
A bill of sale is not always required in New Mexico, but it is recommended for private vehicle sales. If the title does not have a section to record the sale price, a bill of sale may be needed for tax and registration purposes.
How many vehicles can you sell in a year in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, you can sell up to four vehicles per year without needing a dealer’s license. Selling more than four vehicles in a 12-month period requires a dealer’s license from the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).
What paperwork is needed to register a vehicle in New Mexico?
To register a vehicle in New Mexico, you typically need:
- A properly signed vehicle title
- A bill of sale (if applicable)
- A completed Application for Vehicle Title and Registration (MVD 10002)
- A VIN inspection (for out-of-state vehicles)
- Proof of liability insurance
- Payment for registration fees and taxes
Additional documents may be required depending on the vehicle’s history and ownership status.