Tennessee Bill of Sale for Cars, Trucks, Trailers, and Boats
Buying or selling a vehicle in Tennessee? A bill of sale isn’t just a piece of paper – it’s your proof that the transaction happened. This document is essential for buyers looking to protect their purchase or sellers wanting to avoid future headaches.
Tennessee Bill of Sale Form
A Tennessee bill of sale protects both parties by outlining the terms, preventing disputes, and serving as legal proof of the transaction. Get a Tennessee bill of sale for free today!
What is a Tennessee Bill of Sale For?
A bill of sale serves as proof that a vehicle has been legally transferred. While Tennessee may not always require one for private sales, it helps protect both the buyer and seller. If any issues arise, like an unexpected ticket or a lost title, it clarifies who is responsible.
For sellers, it offers peace of mind. You won’t be held accountable if the new owner gets parking fines. For buyers, it acts as solid proof of ownership, which can be crucial in case of a title dispute.
Here’s Why You Need A History Check Before Purchase
A great deal on a used car can quickly turn into a nightmare if you don’t check its history first. That low-mileage sedan? It might have had its odometer rolled back. That accident-free SUV? It could have been sitting in a flood zone last year.
Before handing over your hard-earned money, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting. A vehicle history report can reveal hidden title issues, past accidents, undisclosed damage, and more.
What Can You Find in a Vehicle History Report?
A VIN check shows everything about the history of the vehicle, including accident reports, title issues, theft records, title brand records, and more. Take a look at what’s included in a full report here:
- 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
In addition, sellers can display the original factory specifications and features of their vehicles with window stickers. A window sticker shows the standard and optional features, packages, MSRP, safety ratings, and more.
Display accurate vehicle specs to all buyers easily with our window sticker lookup tool!
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’s in a Tennessee Bill of Sale?
A proper bill of sale should include:
- Buyer and seller names and contact information
- Vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN)
- Sale price and date of sale
- Odometer reading
- Signatures of both parties
Adding a notarization can further strengthen its validity, though it’s not required in most cases.
Why You Need a Bill of Sale?
How a Bill of Sale Helps Sellers Avoid Future Issues
Selling a car without a bill of sale can leave you vulnerable to:
- Liability if the buyer gets into an accident before transferring the title
- Parking tickets or violations tied to the vehicle
- Potential fraud if the buyer misuses the car and claims they never purchased it
With a bill of sale, you have solid proof that the car is no longer your responsibility.
Why Every Buyer Should Insist on a Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is more than just paperwork—it’s your proof of purchase, confirming that you legally own the vehicle. If any disputes arise over ownership, payment, or the car’s condition, having this document can protect you from legal or financial trouble.
It’s also crucial for registration and taxes. Many states require proof of purchase when transferring a title or registering a vehicle, and a bill of sale makes the process much smoother. Without it, you could run into delays or complications that can easily be avoided with this simple document.
What to Check Before Buying a Car!
Before buying, protect your investment by checking the vehicle’s history. Some major points to check are:
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.
License Plate Lookup
See past ownership details, registration status, and any red flags with a license plate lookup.
Service Records
Review maintenance 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.
A little research now can help you avoid major headaches later!
How to Register a Vehicle in Tennessee – Simple Steps
Once you have a bill of sale and the title properly signed over, here’s how to register your vehicle:
- Complete a title transfer – Visit your local county clerk’s office.
- Provide a bill of sale – While not always required, it’s useful in case of discrepancies.
- Pass an emissions test (if applicable) – Some Tennessee counties require emissions testing.
- Pay the necessary fees – Title and registration fees vary by county.
- Receive your new registration and plates – You’re officially the new owner!
Need to verify a car’s registration? Use a Tennessee license plate lookup to check its current status.
Tennessee Boat Registration: What You Need to Know
If you’re buying a boat in Tennessee, the process is slightly different. You’ll need:
- A completed bill of sale with the boat’s details
- Proof of ownership (previous title or manufacturer’s statement of origin)
- A Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) registration application
- Payment for registration fees
Unlike vehicles, boats must be registered with TWRA, not the DMV. Always verify past ownership by running a title history check.
The Advantages of Having a Bill of Sale in Tennessee
Still on the fence? Here’s why you should always get a bill of sale when buying or selling a vehicle:
- Proof of ownership transfer – Prevents disputes over who owns the car.
- Legal protection – Shields both parties from potential fraud or liability.
- Accurate record-keeping – Ensures a paper trail in case of future issues.
Whether you’re selling a car, truck, or boat, having a bill of sale is a simple step that can save you major headaches later.
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
No, Tennessee does not require a bill of sale for private party vehicle sales. However, it is highly recommended as proof of purchase.
No, notarization is not required, but having the document notarized can add an extra layer of security.
If you have a signed title from the seller, you can still transfer ownership. However, a bill of sale can help resolve any disputes if questions arise about the sale.
Yes, a handwritten bill of sale is valid as long as it includes all essential details and signatures from both parties.
No. A bill of sale proves the transaction happened, while a title transfer legally moves ownership from the seller to the buyer.
Many online resources offer free templates, or you can create your own by including the necessary details mentioned in this guide.