New York Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template

Q: What to do with license plates when selling a car in New York?

In New York, the seller must remove the license plates before handing over the vehicle. The plates should be: Returned to the DMV if the seller is not transferring them to another vehicle. Kept for transfer if registering a new vehicle. Failure to return the plates can result in penalties, including fines and suspension of registration privileges.

If you’re buying or selling a car in New York, having a bill of sale is important to finalize the transaction. It serves as a legal record of the sale and protects both parties involved. To make the process easier, we’ve provided a free New York bill of sale template for cars that you can customize for your needs.

What is the New York Bill of Sale?

A New York bill of sale is used to document the sale of a vehicle, boat, or trailer, ensuring a legal record of the transaction between the buyer and seller. It includes key details such as the sale price, date, and vehicle information, serving as proof of ownership transfer.

While New York requires a bill of sale for certain transactions, it also provides added protection by preventing disputes, assisting with tax and registration processes, and ensuring both parties have a clear record of the sale.

Why Do Buyers and Sellers Need a Bill of Sale in New York

For Seller

Proof of Sale: Shows that the transaction happened and ownership was officially transferred to the buyer. It helps avoid confusion about who owns the car after the sale.
Protection from Fines: Prevents the seller from receiving tickets, tolls, or other penalties linked to the vehicle once it is sold.
Record of Transfer: Keeps a written record of the sale date and vehicle details, which is useful if the buyer delays transferring the title.
Financial and Legal Safety: Protects the seller from future disputes or financial issues that could arise after the transaction.

For Buyers

Proof of Ownership: Confirms that the buyer is the new legal owner of the vehicle and can use it for registration or insurance.
Buyer’s Protection: Helps the buyer if any disputes or claims occur after the sale, proving the purchase was completed legally.
Title Transfer Support: Useful when there are delays with title processing, as it clearly shows when the vehicle was bought.
Administrative Use: Often required when registering the vehicle, applying for insurance, or handling financial paperwork related to the purchase.

Types of New York Bill of Sale

In New York, there are a few types of bills of sale that you can choose from, depending on what you are selling or buying. The most common ones are for vehicles, boats, and firearms, but there are also general and conditional types used in other situations.

By Asset Types

Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale: Used for vehicles like cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles. On the motor vehicle bill of sale, you’ll find details like VIN and odometer reading. It’s usually required to register at the NY DMV.
Boat Bill of Sale: Records the boat sale or other watercraft. The Hull Identification Number (HIN) and the seller’s and buyer’s information are written on the bill of sale.
Firearm Bill of Sale: Keeps a written record of firearm transactions. It usually lists the buyer and seller’s contact information, driver’s license details, and signatures to ensure the transfer is legally documented.
General Bill of Sale: This type of bill of sale is used to record the transaction of everyday items like furniture, tools, or electronics.

By Transaction Types

Absolute Bill of Sale: Transfers full ownership from the seller to the buyer with no conditions. The sale is final, and the seller has no more responsibility after the deal is completed.
Conditional Bill of Sale: Used when the ownership depends on certain terms being met, such as finishing payment or meeting an agreed condition before the buyer takes full ownership.
Quitclaim Bill of Sale: Transfers whatever ownership rights the seller may have, even if they don’t hold full proof of ownership. It’s often used for quick or informal transfers.
Dealer Bill of Sale: Issued by licensed dealerships during vehicle sales. It includes extra documents and information needed for registration with the New York DMV.

What Should Be Written in a New York Bill of Sale?

A bill of sale goes beyond a basic receipt; it’s a vital record of the transaction. It should include:

How to Register a Vehicle in New York

To register your vehicle in New York, you must visit a local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. It is strongly recommended to make an appointment beforehand to avoid long wait times.

Required Documents and Information

Collect all of the following documents before your visit:

Application for Vehicle Registration: The completed Form MV-82 (Vehicle Registration/Title Application).
Proof of Ownership: The New York State Certificate of Title.
Proof of Insurance: A valid NYS automobile liability insurance card.
Proof of Identity: Your NYS Driver License, non-driver ID, or learner’s permit.
Proof of Sales Tax Payment: A completed sales tax form (DTF-802, DTF-803, or DTF-804) or proof of a tax exemption.
Payment: Funds to cover all required registration fees and taxes.

Steps to Register

Gather Documents: Ensure all required forms, proofs of identity and insurance, and payment are ready.
Visit the DMV: Go to your local DMV office. Remember to make an appointment to save time.
Submit Application: Present your completed application and all supporting documents to the DMV representative.
Pay Fees and Taxes: Pay all applicable registration fees and taxes at the time of your application.
Receive Documents: You will be issued temporary registration documents and new license plates. Your official title will be mailed to you later.

Note on Inspection: If your vehicle has been out of service, you may need to obtain a 10-day waiver sticker (Form VS1077) to legally drive the vehicle to an official inspection station.

New York VIN Check – Verify Vehicle History Before You Buy

Plan to buy a used vehicle? Be sure to check the VIN and get the report before you decide to purchase the vehicle. Check the specifications and the records, like auction, recalls, past usage, and more.

Mileage History

Title Brand

Ownership History

Warranty Status

Sales History

Salvage Title

Usage History

Repair Cost

Auction History

Hail Damage

Ownership Duration

Recalls History

Accident History

Flood Damage

Lien & Loans

Maintenance Schedule

Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale by State

Bill of sale requirements vary by state. Click below to download a state-specific template tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About New York

Is a bill of sale required in New York?

Yes, a bill of sale is required in New York for private vehicle sales. The New York DMV provides a Form MV-912 (Bill of Sale), but a generic bill of sale with all necessary details is also acceptable.

Can you handwrite a bill of sale in New York?

Yes, a handwritten bill of sale is valid in New York as long as it includes essential details like buyer and seller information, vehicle description (make, model, year, VIN), sale price, date of sale, and signatures.

What to do with license plates when selling a car in New York?

In New York, the seller must remove the license plates before handing over the vehicle. The plates should be:

Returned to the DMV if the seller is not transferring them to another vehicle.
Kept for transfer if registering a new vehicle.

Failure to return the plates can result in penalties, including fines and suspension of registration privileges.

Does the New York bill of sale need to be notarized?

No, a bill of sale for a vehicle in New York does not need to be notarized to be valid for transferring the title. However, New York law requires a bill of sale for private vehicle sales, and it is a good idea to use the official form from the NY DMV. Notarization is optional, but can add credibility if there is a legal argument.