New Jersey Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template
When buying or selling a car in New Jersey, having a Bill of Sale is an important step to ensure the transaction is legal and properly documented. Whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealer, this document ensures a clear, hassle-free ownership transfer.
What is the New Jersey Bill of Sale?
A New Jersey bill of sale is used to document the sale of a vehicle, boat, or trailer, ensuring a clear transfer of ownership between the buyer and seller. It records details like the sale price, date, and vehicle information, serving as proof of the transaction.
This document can help prevent disputes, assist with tax and registration requirements, and provide legal protection for both parties. Even if not always required, having a bill of sale adds security and transparency to the sale process.
Why Sellers in New Jersey Need a Bill of Sale?
A bill of sale serves as proof of the transaction and confirms the transfer of ownership. Without it, you could still receive tickets or fines tied to the vehicle.
For Seller
- Release from Liability: The bill of sale serves as legal proof that the transaction happened and confirms the transfer of ownership, so you won’t get tickets or fines tied to the vehicle later.
- Protection Against Delays: The buyer’s delay must transfer the title. It records the exact date of sale, protecting the seller from potential legal or financial issues until the title is finalized.
- Proof of Transaction: It provides a clear, documented record that the vehicle is no longer your responsibility.
For Buyers
- Proof of Ownership: The bill of sale is solid proof of purchase and a legal protection if problems arise. If the title transfer is delayed, it confirms your rights as the new owner.
- Dispute Resolution: The document can help resolve disagreements about the sale, price, or vehicle condition.
- Aids Official Processes: It may be needed for vehicle registration, getting insurance, or handling other legal and financial matters after your purchase.
Types of New Jersey Bill of Sale
New Jersey uses several different kinds of bills of sale to record the transfer of various items. The common types are for vehicles, boats, and firearms.
Specific types of New Jersey bills of sale include:
- Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale: This document is used when transferring ownership of vehicles like cars, motorcycles, or trailers. It includes necessary details such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), the model, the date of sale, and the price.
- Boat Bill of Sale: This form is needed specifically for registering a watercraft. You must have it when you transfer ownership of a boat or a jet ski.
- Firearm Bill of Sale: This is recommended for private gun sales so you can follow state regulations, even though a formal bill of sale is not always required by law.
- Personal Property Bill of Sale: This is a general form that can be used for many different items, such as household furniture, electronics, or jewelry.
- Commercial Real Estate Bill of Sale: The commercial real estate bill of sale is used when you transfer tangible personal property, for example, equipment or machinery, as part of a commercial real estate purchase
What Does the New Jersey Bill of Sale Contain?
A bill of sale is more than just a receipt; it’s a comprehensive record of the transaction. It should include:
- Buyer & 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 – Required from both parties for validity
How to Register a Vehicle in New Jersey
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before heading to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC), ensure you have:
- Signed Title – The seller must properly transfer ownership.
- Valid ID – A New Jersey driver’s license or ID.
- Proof of Insurance – Mandatory for vehicle registration.
- Vehicle Inspection – Some vehicles may require an inspection before registration.
- Registration Fees – Costs vary based on vehicle type and weight.
Step 2: Visit an NJMVC Office
Bring all required documents to your local NJMVC office. If the vehicle was purchased from a dealer, they may handle the registration for you.
Step 3: Register Your Vehicle
Complete the registration process by:
- Submit the required paperwork.
- Paying the necessary fees.
- Receiving your license plates and registration documents.
Step 4: Transfer the Title
Make sure the vehicle title is officially transferred to your name. New Jersey requires title transfers to be completed within 10 days to avoid penalties.
Step 5: Keep Your Documents Safe
Store your title, registration, and insurance documents securely for future reference.
New Jersey VIN Check – Verify Vehicle History Before You Buy
If you plan to buy a used vehicle in New Jersey, make sure you check the VIN and secure the vehicle history report to examine the vehicle’s specifications and its records, like accidents, auctions, or recalls.
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
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Each state has its own requirements for an auto bill of sale. Click below to find the template for your state!
New Jersey Bill of Sale FAQs
Does New Jersey require a bill of sale?
A bill of sale is not required in New Jersey for most vehicle transactions. However, it is recommended as proof of purchase, especially in private sales. If the title does not include a section for recording the sale price, a bill of sale may be necessary for tax purposes.
Does a New Jersey bill of sale need to be notarized?
Generally, a New Jersey bill of sale does not require notarization; however, it is necessary for specific vehicle transactions, such as the registration of a car originally from a state that does not issue titles.Â
For most standard, in-state vehicle sales, the critical document is the title transfer, meaning the bill of sale itself is often not mandatory
How to write a bill of sale in New Jersey?
A bill of sale in New Jersey should include:
- Buyer and seller’s full names and contact information
- Vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN)
- Sale price and date of sale
- Signatures of both parties
While notarization is not required, both parties should keep a copy for their records.
Can a bill of sale be handwritten in New Jersey?
Yes, a bill of sale can be handwritten in New Jersey as long as it includes all essential details, such as the buyer and seller’s information, vehicle description, sale price, and signatures.
What is a bill of sale for a motorcycle in New Jersey?
A bill of sale for a motorcycle in New Jersey is a document proving the transfer of ownership. It typically includes:
- Buyer and seller’s names and contact details
- Motorcycle details (make, model, year, VIN)
- Sale price and date of sale
- Signatures of both parties
This document can help with registration and serves as proof of purchase.
