North Carolina Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template
A North Carolina bill of sale is an important document for recording vehicle transactions, proving ownership transfer, and protecting both buyer and seller. It may also be required for registration and tax purposes. This document ensures a smooth and transparent transfer of ownership with clearly outlined terms.
What is the North Carolina Bill of Sale?
In private vehicle sales, a bill of sale is important since the buyer and seller handle the transaction directly. It provides legal documentation, capturing key details such as the sale price, date, vehicle or vessel information, and every detail about the transaction.
Even when purchasing from a dealership, a bill of sale adds an extra layer of security. It ensures transparency, helps prevent disputes, and serves as a valuable record if any issues arise.
Additionally, a bill of sale can be useful for tax purposes, registration, and insurance claims. It provides a clear paper trail, proving the terms of the sale and protecting both parties in case of future disagreements or legal concerns.
Why Do Sellers and Buyers Must Have a Bill of Sale in North Carolina?
Both buyer and seller should have a copy of the bill of sale in their possession, as it is a solid document to prove the vehicle’s transfer. For the buyer, the bill of sale is used as one of the required documents to title the vehicle on the DMV.
For Seller
- Proof of Transaction: Confirms that the sale took place and that ownership of the vehicle was legally transferred to the buyer.
- Protection from Liability: Prevents the seller from being held responsible for tickets, fines, or other problems linked to the vehicle after it has been sold.
- Record of Sale Date: Keeps an official record of when the vehicle was sold, which is important if the buyer delays transferring the title.
- Avoid Future Dispute: Helps avoid future legal or financial troubles that may arise if there is any confusion about who owns the car.
For Buyers
- Proof of Ownership: Serves as clear evidence that the buyer legally purchased the vehicle, which can be used for registration and insurance.
- Buyer Protection: Protects the buyer if any disputes or issues come up after the sale by showing the exact date and details of the purchase.
- Support for Title Transfer: Helps if there is a delay in processing the title transfer by confirming that the vehicle was bought properly.
- Useful for Records: Can be needed for registration, insurance, or other financial and legal paperwork related to the vehicle.
Different Types of North Carolina Bill of Sale
In North Carolina, it has more than one type of bill of sale. The bill of sale is used to record transactions, especially if it’s a big transaction like real estate or a vehicle. The DMV usually asks for the bill of sale to register the vehicle.
Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale
Used for selling cars, trucks, or motorcycles. Along with the bill of sale, the North Carolina DMV requires forms such as the Title Application (MVR-1) and Odometer Disclosure Statement (MVR-180) to complete the ownership transfer.
Vessel Bill of Sale
Needed when selling a boat or other watercraft. This document must be notarised before the buyer can register the vessel with the state.
Generic Bill of Sale
Used for everyday items like furniture, tools, or other personal property. It serves as proof of the transaction and helps both parties avoid disputes later on.
What Does the North Carolina Bill of Sale Include?
A bill of sale is more than a simple receipt – it’s an important record of the vehicle transaction. It should include:
- Buyer & seller details – Full names and addresses
- Vehicle details – 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
- Seller’s Name and Signature
Having these details ensures a well-documented, transparent sale and helps prevent future disputes.
How to Register a Vehicle in North Carolina
To register a vehicle in North Carolina (NC), you must complete three steps—licensing, insurance, and inspection-before visiting a license plate agency or submitting your documents by mail.
1. Get Your Requirements Ready
Complete these prerequisites before applying for registration:
- Driver’s License: Obtain an NC driver’s license or ID. New residents with an out-of-state license must first get an NC Temporary Driving Certificate.
- Insurance: Secure a valid North Carolina liability insurance policy.
- Inspection: Have the vehicle pass a required safety and emissions inspection at a licensed North Carolina inspection station.
- Property Taxes: Ensure any applicable property taxes on the vehicle are paid.
2. Complete the Necessary Forms
Gather the following official vehicle documents:
- Vehicle Documents: Collect the vehicle’s title, bill of sale, and any lien release (if applicable).
- MVR-1 Title Application: Fill out the Application for Title (MVR-1) from the N.C. Department of Transportation.
- MVR-180 Odometer Disclosure: Complete this form for all vehicles less than 10 years old.
3. Register the Vehicle and Pay Fees
- Registration Options: You can submit your documents and application in person at a local license plate agency (making an appointment is recommended) or by mail to the DMV.
- Pay the Fees: Be prepared to pay the following:
- The Title Fee and License Plate Fee.
- The Highway Use Tax (HUT) is 3% of the vehicle’s value.
North Carolina 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
Â
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 the North Carolina Bill of Sale
Is a bill of sale required in North Carolina?
No, North Carolina does not legally require a bill of sale for vehicle sales. However, it is highly recommended as proof of the transaction, protecting both the buyer and seller.
Can a bill of sale be handwritten in North Carolina?
Yes, a handwritten bill of sale is acceptable in North Carolina as long as it includes all essential details, such as buyer and seller information, vehicle details, sale price, and signatures.
Can a bill of sale be typed?
Yes, a bill of sale can be typed, and it is often preferred for clarity and legibility. Whether handwritten or typed, it must contain all required details to be valid. Download our template to make sure it has all the required information.
What documents do you need to register a car in North Carolina?
To register a car in North Carolina, you will need:
- The vehicle title, properly signed over by the seller
- A valid North Carolina driver’s license or ID
- Proof of insurance
- A completed Title Application (MVR-1)
- A bill of sale (recommended but not required)
- Payment for registration and title fees
Do both parties need to be present for a title transfer in North Carolina?
No, both parties do not need to be present. The seller must sign the title and provide the necessary documents, but the buyer can complete the transfer at the DMV on their own.
Does the North Carolina bill of sale need to be notarised?
No, a North Carolina bill of sale does not need to be notarised for a private vehicle sale. However, the vehicle’s title document must not be notarised.
Notarization of the title is a necessary step for the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). This process verifies the seller’s signature, which is needed to complete the transfer of ownership.
