Pennsylvania Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template

Buying or selling a car, truck, trailer, or boat in Pennsylvania? This simple form records key details like the buyer, seller, price, and vehicle information, helping prevent disputes.

What is the Pennsylvania Bill of Sale?

A bill of sale is essential in private sales since buyers and sellers handle the paperwork themselves. Even when purchasing from a dealership, it provides extra protection by clarifying terms, resolving disputes, and serving as a backup record if issues arise.

Let’s say you buy a car from a private seller, but later discover they don’t have the legal right to sell it. Without a bill of sale, proving your ownership could be difficult. This document is more than just a receipt; it’s legal proof of the transaction. If ownership is ever questioned, a signed bill of sale confirms who sold what to whom and for how much.

While Pennsylvania doesn’t require a bill of sale to transfer ownership at the DMV, having one is a smart choice. It serves as proof of purchase, records the agreed-upon price, and helps prevent misunderstandings or disputes. Think of it as your safety net in case anything goes wrong.

How is a Pennsylvania Bill of Sale Crucial for Seller and Buyer?

For Seller

Proving the sale happened – Avoids disputes over ownership.
Clarifying “as-is” terms – So buyers can’t claim hidden defects later.
Preventing liability issues – Ensures you’re not responsible for future incidents.

For Buyers

Proof of Legal Ownership: Serves as solid evidence that you purchased the vehicle and are its rightful owner. This document helps you in case of disputes or ownership questions.
Supports Registration and Title Transfer: A bill of sale includes key details like the VIN, sale date, and price, making it easier to complete registration, title transfer, and insurance paperwork.
Protection in Disputes: If problems arise with the seller or questions come up about the sale, you have written proof of the transaction to protect your rights.
Useful for Tax and Insurance Records: The recorded sale price and date can be helpful when calculating taxes or updating your insurance policy.
Avoids Delays and Extra Costs: Having a bill of sale ready can prevent complications or extra fees when dealing with the DMV or other legal processes.

What Should be Included in a Pennsylvania Bill of Sale?

The Pennsylvania bill of sale should have included the following information:

Buyer and Seller Info – Names, addresses, and signatures.
Vehicle Details – Make, model, year, VIN, and mileage.
Sale Price & Date – Proof of the agreed amount and transaction date.
As-Is Statement – Protects the seller from future claims.

It’s a simple document, but missing even one key detail can cause headaches later.

How to Register a Vehicle in Pennsylvania: Step-by-Step

Once you buy a vehicle, you must register it with the Pennsylvania DMV. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

Before heading to the DMV, make sure you have:

The vehicle title is signed by the seller
A completed bill of sale (optional but recommended)
Proof of Pennsylvania liability insurance
A filled-out Application for Title and Registration
Payment for registration fees and taxes

Step 2: Visit a Pennsylvania DMV Office

Find a nearby PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Service Center or an authorized tag agency.
Bring all your documents, including your ID.

Step 3: Submit Your Paperwork

Hand in the title, bill of sale, insurance proof, and application form.
The DMV will verify the documents and check for any errors.

Step 4: Pay Fees & Taxes

Fees vary based on your vehicle type and county.
Be prepared to pay sales tax on the purchase price.

Step 5: Receive Your Registration & License Plate

Once approved, you’ll receive a registration card, license plate, and sticker (if applicable).

Step 6: Attach Your License Plate & Keep Your Documents

Install the plate on your vehicle as instructed.
Keep your registration card in the car at all times.

Pennsylvania requires title transfers within 20 days to avoid penalties.

Pennsylvania 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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Bill of Sale

Is a bill of sale required to register a car in PA?

No, but the bill of sale is highly recommended for private sales. While Pennsylvania doesn’t require it for registration, having one can help resolve disputes, verify the terms of the sale, and serve as proof of payment.

Can I handwrite a bill of sale?

Yes, as long as it includes all the necessary details. A handwritten bill of sale is legally valid in Pennsylvania, but make sure it’s legible and contains key information like the buyer and seller’s names, the vehicle’s details (VIN, make, model, and year), the sale price, and the date of transfer.

Does a Pennsylvania bill of sale need to be notarized?

Not in Pennsylvania, but it adds an extra layer of security. Notarization isn’t required, but having the document notarized can help prevent fraud, confirm identities, and provide extra assurance if any legal issues arise.

Is a bill of sale the same as a title?

No. The title proves ownership; the bill of sale proves the transaction. A title is issued by the state and is necessary to transfer ownership officially, while a bill of sale serves as a receipt showing the agreed-upon terms between buyer and seller. Both documents play an important role in the buying and selling process.