New Jersey Bill of Sale Template for Cars, Trucks, Trailers, and Boats

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. To make the process easier, we’ve provided a free New Jersey bill of sale template for vehicles that you can customize to your needs.

New Jersey Bill of Sale Form

Whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealer, this document ensures a clear, hassle-free ownership transfer with well-defined terms. Download one for free today!

What is the New Jersey Bill of Sale For?

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.

Get a Vehicle History Report in New Jersey or a Window Sticker

Before finalizing your purchase, wouldn’t you want to know the vehicle’s full history? A bill of sale confirms the deal, but it won’t reveal hidden issues like stolen records, accidents, or damages—that’s why a vehicle history report is essential.

What Details Are Included in the Vehicle History Report?

A VIN check from Detailed Vehicle History gives you an in-depth look at a vehicle’s past. Here’s what your report will include.

Sellers can also showcase their vehicle’s original specs with a window sticker, featuring standard and optional features, packages, MSRP, safety ratings, and more.

Use our window sticker lookup tool for instant, accurate vehicle details!

What's Included in a Window Sticker?

Our window sticker lookup provides all original factory details for your vehicle.

What Does the 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

These details ensure a clear, well-documented sale, minimizing the risk of future disputes.

 

Why You Need a Bill of Sale?

Why Sellers Need a Bill of Sale

Selling a car in New Jersey? You don’t want to be held responsible for anything that happens after the vehicle is out of your hands. 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.

This document is especially crucial if the buyer delays transferring the title. In New Jersey, 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 is more than just a document—it’s proof of ownership and a safeguard if problems arise. If the title transfer is delayed, it confirms the sale and protects your rights as the new owner.

It can also help resolve disputes and may be needed for registration, insurance, or handling legal and financial matters after your purchase.

What to Check Before Buying a Car!

Considering a used car? Protect yourself from costly issues by checking for flood damage, odometer fraud, and other red flags before you buy!

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 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:

  • Submitting 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.

Complete the registration process by:

  • Submitting the required paperwork.
  • Paying the necessary fees.
  • Receiving your license plates and registration documents.

Step 5: Keep Your Documents Safe

Store your title, registration, and insurance documents securely for future reference.

How to Register a Vessel in New Jersey?

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

To register a boat in New Jersey, you’ll need:

  • Bill of Sale – Proof of purchase signed by both parties.
  • Boat Title – Required for vessels over 12 feet long.
  • Valid ID – A New Jersey-issued driver’s license or ID.
  • Proof of Payment – Receipt for registration fees.
  • HIN Verification – Certain boats may need a Hull Identification Number (HIN) inspection.

Step 2: Visit an NJMVC Office

Bring your documents to an NJMVC office or an approved boat registration agent.

Step 3: Complete the Registration

Finish 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 Jersey boat registrations must be renewed annually. Be sure to 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

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.

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.

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.

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.