Utah Bill of Sale for Cars, Trucks, Trailers, and Boats
Buying or selling a vehicle in Utah? A bill of sale is more than just a piece of paper—it’s your safety net in case things go south. It protects both parties by outlining the terms, preventing disputes, and serving as legal proof of the transaction.Â
Whether you’re sealing the deal on a used car or transferring ownership of a classic truck, having this document on hand can protect both the buyer and the seller from future disputes.
What is the Bill of Sale For?
A bill of sale serves as proof that ownership of the vehicle has legally changed hands. It typically includes:
- Buyer and seller details (names, addresses, contact info)
- Vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN)
- Sale price and date
- Any special terms or conditions
While Utah doesn’t always require a bill of sale for registration, it’s still a smart move for both parties. If a dispute arises about the transaction, like the buyer claiming they never got the car or the seller being blamed for parking tickets, it is solid evidence of the sale.
Check a Car’s History Before Buying in Utah!
A great deal on a used car might seem like a steal until you realize it comes with hidden baggage. Before handing over your hard-earned cash, check the car’s history to avoid costly surprises. Has it been in a major accident? Does it have an open recall? Worse—has the odometer been tampered with? A VIN check can expose these.
What You Can Learn from a Vehicle History Report
A VIN check from Detailed Vehicle History provides a comprehensive look at the vehicle. Here’s what your report will include.
- 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
In addition, sellers can display their vehicles’ original factory specifications and features with window stickers. A window sticker shows the standard and optional features, packages, MSRP, safety ratings, and more.
Display accurate vehicle specs to all buyers easily 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
Must-Have Details for a Utah Bill of Sale
Not all bills of sale are created equal. To ensure yours is legally sound, make sure it includes:
- Full names and addresses of both parties
- A detailed vehicle description (including VIN)
- The exact sale amount (to avoid tax issues)
- Date of sale and signatures of both buyer and seller
Why You Need a Bill of Sale?
How a Bill of Sale Protects Sellers from Future Problems
Think you’re done with a car once you sell it? Not necessarily. Without a bill of sale, you could still be on the hook if the buyer:
- Fails to register the vehicle in their name
- Gets into legal trouble before the paperwork is updated
- Incurs parking fines or toll violations
By keeping a signed bill of sale, you have proof that you’re no longer responsible for what happens with the car after it leaves your hands.
Why a Bill of Sale Is a Must-Have For Buyers
A bill of sale is more than just a form—it’s proof of purchase that confirms legal ownership. It provides a written record of the transaction, including key details like the buyer and seller’s information, the purchase price, and the date of sale. This documentation is essential if any disputes arise over ownership, ensuring you have legal backing in case of any claims.
Additionally, a bill of sale makes the registration process straightforward, making transferring the title into your name easier. It can also serve as evidence of the agreed-upon price, which may be useful for tax purposes or if you ever need to prove the vehicle’s value. Without it, you could face delays, complications, or even potential legal risks.
What to Check Before Buying a Car!
Before buying, make sure you’re making a smart investment by checking the vehicle’s history. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for:
Flood Damage Check
Check for past flood exposure that could lead to major mechanical failures.
Odometer Rollback Report
Verify the mileage to avoid paying more for a car with hidden wear and tear.
License Plate Lookup
See past ownership details, registration status, and any red flags with a license plate lookup.
Service Records
Review maintenance history to ensure the car has been properly cared for.
Title History Check
Confirm there are no liens, salvage titles, or undisclosed problems.
Stolen Record Check
Check for theft records and avoid stolen vehicles and legal issues.
A little research now can help you avoid major issues later! Check now!
How to Register a Vehicle in Utah
Once the sale is complete, the new owner needs to register the vehicle. Here’s how to go about registration:
- Gather necessary documents:
- Bill of sale
- Title certificate
- Safety and emissions certificates (if required)
- Visit the Utah DMV
- Pay registration fees and taxes
- Receive new plates and registration
Skipping registration can lead to fines and legal headaches—so don’t delay!
How to Register a Vessel in Utah
Buying a boat or vessel in Utah? Similar rules apply. A bill of sale is required for boats over a certain length and for those with a motor. To register a boat, you’ll need:
- A completed bill of sale
- A valid title (if applicable)
- Proof of sales tax payment
- A boat inspection (if required)
The process is similar to vehicle registration, ensuring that ownership is properly transferred and legal.
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
Not always, but it’s highly recommended. It helps protect both buyers and sellers.
Yes, as long as it includes all the necessary details. However, using an official form is best.
No, but notarization can add an extra layer of security to the transaction.
Buyers must register the vehicle within 60 days of purchase.
You could still be legally tied to the car. That’s why a Vehicle Transfer Notification is critical.