North Dakota Bill of Sale Template for Cars, Trucks, Trailers, and Boats
A North Dakota bill of sale is a key document for documenting vehicle sales, verifying ownership transfer, and safeguarding both the buyer and seller. Without it, both parties may face legal and financial risks, such as disputes over ownership, unpaid fees, or registration issues.
North Dakota Bill of Sale Form
Download your free template today and make the car selling or buying process smoother and legally binding.
What is the North Dakota Bill of Sale For?
A bill of sale is important in private vehicle sales since the buyer and seller handle the transaction directly. It records important details like the sale price, date, and vehicle or vessel information, serving as legal proof of ownership transfer.
Even when buying from a dealership, having a bill of sale offers extra security. It promotes transparency, helps prevent disputes, and provides a reliable record if any issues arise.
Additionally, a bill of sale is useful for tax purposes, vehicle registration, and insurance claims. It creates a clear paper trail, outlining the terms of the sale and protecting both parties from future legal or financial complications.
Get a Vehicle History Report in North Carolina or a Window Sticker
Before finalizing your purchase, wouldn’t you want to know the full history of the vehicle? While a bill of sale proves the transaction, it won’t reveal hidden problems, like theft records, hidden damages, liens, and loans, etc—that’s where a vehicle history report comes in.
What Details Are Included in the Vehicle History Report?
A VIN check from Detailed Vehicle History offers a comprehensive look into a vehicle’s past. Here’s what your report will include.
- Mileage
- Ownership History
- Sales History
- Usage History
- Accident History
- Lien & Loans
- Recalls History
- Flood Damage
- Title Brand
- Warranty Status
- Salvage Title
- Repair Cost
- Hail Damage
- Ownership Duration
- Accident History
- Maintenance Schedule
Sellers can also showcase their vehicle’s original features with a window sticker, which includes details like factory options, packages, MSRP, and safety ratings.
Get quick, reliable vehicle insights with our window sticker lookup tool today!
What's Included in a Window Sticker?
Our window sticker lookup provides all original factory details for your vehicle.
- MSRP & Pricing
- Optional Equipment
- Warranty Details
- Engine Specs
- Exterior Features
- Color Codes
- Standard Features
- Safety Ratings
- Fuel Economy
- Interior Features
- Packages & Options
- Manufacturing Info
What Does the Bill of Sale Include?
A bill of sale is more than just a receipt—it serves as an official 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 purchase amount
- Date of sale – The official transfer date
- Signatures – Required from both parties to validate the document
Including these details ensures a clear, legally documented sale and helps prevent potential disputes.
Why You Need a Bill of Sale?
Why Do Sellers Need a Bill of Sale?
If you’re selling a vehicle in North Dakota, a bill of sale safeguards you from liability once the car is out of your hands. It serves as proof of the sale and confirms the transfer of ownership. Without it, you might still be responsible for tickets, fines, or other issues tied to the vehicle.
This document is especially crucial if the buyer delays transferring the title. In North Dakota, buyers must complete the title transfer promptly. A bill of sale records the sale date, protecting you from potential legal or financial complications.
Why Do Buyers Need a Bill of Sale?
A bill of sale is more than just paperwork—it’s essential proof of your purchase and a safeguard against future complications. If there’s a delay in the title transfer, it verifies the sale and protects your rights as the new owner.
Additionally, it can help resolve disputes and may be needed for vehicle registration, insurance, or other legal and financial matters.
What to Check Before Buying a Car!
Looking for a used car? Protect yourself from costly surprises by checking for flood damage, odometer fraud, and other hidden issues before you buy!
Flood Damage Check
Check for past flood exposure that could lead to major mechanical failures.
Odometer Rollback Report
Verify the mileage to avoid paying more for a car with hidden wear and tear.
ND License Plate Lookup
See past ownership details, registration status, and any red flags with a license plate lookup.
Service Records
Review maintenance history history to ensure the car has been properly cared for.
Title History Check
Confirm there are no liens, salvage titles, or undisclosed problems.
Stolen Record Check
Check for theft records and avoid stolen vehicles and legal issues.
Taking a few minutes to check a vehicle’s history can save you from expensive problems down the road.
How to Register a Vehicle in North Dakota
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before visiting the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), make sure you have:
- Signed Title – The seller must properly transfer ownership.
- Valid ID – A North Dakota driver’s license or identification card.
- Proof of Insurance – Required for registration.
- Bill of Sale – Recommended as proof of purchase.
- Odometer Disclosure Statement – Needed for vehicles under 10 years old.
- Vehicle Inspection Report – May be required for certain vehicles.
Registration Fees – Varies based on vehicle type and weight.
Step 2: Visit an NDDOT Office
Bring all required documents to your local NDDOT office. If purchasing from a dealership, they may handle the registration process for you.
Step 3: Register Your Vehicle
Complete the registration process by:
- Submitting all necessary paperwork.
- Paying the registration and title fees.
- Receiving your license plates and registration documents.
Step 4: Transfer the Title
Ensure the vehicle title is officially transferred to your name. In North Dakota, this should be done promptly to avoid penalties.
Step 5: Keep Your Documents Safe
Store your title, registration, and insurance documents in a secure place for future reference.
How to Register a Vessel in North Dakota
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
To register a boat in North Dakota, you’ll need:
- Bill of Sale – Proof of purchase signed by both parties.
- Boat Title – Required for motorized vessels over 12 feet long.
- Valid ID – A North Dakota-issued driver’s license or ID.
- Proof of Payment – Receipt for registration fees.
- Hull Identification Number (HIN) Inspection – Some boats may require verification.
Step 2: Visit a North Dakota Game and Fish Department Office
Take your documents to a North Dakota Game and Fish Department office or an authorized registration agent.
Step 3: Complete the Registration
Finalize the process by:
- Submitting your paperwork.
- Paying the applicable fees.
- Receiving your boat registration number and decals.
Step 4: Renew Your Registration on Time
North Dakota boat registrations must be renewed every one to three years, depending on your selected registration period. Be sure to renew before expiration to avoid penalties.
Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale by State
Bill of sale requirements vary by state. Click below to download a tailored template for your specific location.
Frequently Asked Questions
A bill of sale is not required for most vehicle transactions in North Dakota, but it is strongly recommended. It provides proof of purchase, protects both buyer and seller, and may be required for registration in some cases.
To sell a car privately in North Dakota:
- Sign the vehicle title over to the buyer.
- Complete an Odometer Disclosure Statement (for vehicles under 10 years old).
- Provide a bill of sale (recommended for record-keeping).
- Remove the license plates before handing over the vehicle.
- The buyer must then register the vehicle with the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
No, North Dakota charges a 5% motor vehicle excise tax on most vehicle purchases. Some exemptions apply, such as transfers between immediate family members.
Registration fees in North Dakota vary based on the vehicle’s age, weight, and type. Passenger vehicle registration fees typically range from $49 to $274. Additional fees may apply for title transfers, plate renewals, and other services.