Vermont Bill of Sale Form – Download Free Template

Buying or selling a vehicle in Vermont? A bill of sale isn’t just paperwork; it’s official proof of the transaction. While not always required for registration, it protects both buyers and sellers from potential legal complications.

What is the Vermont Bill of Sale?

A Vermont bill of sale is an important document used in private vehicle or vessel sales, where the buyer and seller manage the paperwork themselves. It serves as legal proof that ownership has been transferred, recording key details such as the sale date, price, and vehicle information.

Even when buying from a dealership, having a bill of sale adds an extra layer of protection. It helps clarify the terms of the deal, settles potential disputes, and acts as a reliable backup record if any issues arise later.

Why Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Vermont?

Selling a vehicle in Vermont? A bill of sale is your safeguard against future liabilities. Here are the reasons why buyers and sellers need to have a bill of sale.

For Seller

As a seller, the bill of sale serves more than just a sales proof. Here’s why it’s important to get a bill of sale:

Protects you from future liabilities such as accidents, parking fines, or toll charges after the vehicle is sold.
Serves as clear proof that ownership has officially transferred to the buyer.
Helps you avoid legal or financial issues if the buyer delays title transfer or registration.
Acts as documentation of the sale date, which is useful since Vermont buyers have 30 days to transfer the title.

For Buyers

Here are the reasons why a buyer needs a bill of sale: to protect if there’s a future dispute regarding ownership.

Provides legal proof of ownership in case of title transfer delays or disputes.
May be required for vehicle registration, insurance, or other legal purposes.
Helps prevent ownership conflicts or misunderstandings after the sale.
Confirms the agreed-upon transaction details, protecting your rights as the new owner.

What are the Types of Bill of Sale in Vermont?

Vermont offers several types of bills of sale depending on what’s being sold. These forms make it easier to document ownership transfers for vehicles, boats, firearms, and other personal property.

The most common is the Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale (Form VT-005), which also acts as an official odometer disclosure statement.

Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale (Form VT-005): Serves as both a bill of sale and odometer disclosure form, required for private vehicle registration.
Boat Bill of Sale: Used to record the transfer of ownership for a vessel or watercraft.
Firearm Bill of Sale: Documents the sale or transfer of a firearm between private parties.
General Bill of Sale: Covers other personal property items sold privately, such as tools, electronics, or furniture.
Affidavit of Non-Titled Vehicle (Form VT-025): Used when a vehicle has no existing title record.
Trailer Bill of Sale: Required for registering trailers over 1,500 lbs, often submitted with a title application.

What Does the Vermont Bill of Sale Contain?

A properly drafted bill of sale goes beyond a simple agreement; it serves as a thorough record of the transaction. It should contain:

Buyer and seller details: Full names and addresses
Vehicle information: Make, model, year, VIN, and mileage
Sale price: The finalised amount
Date of sale: The official transfer date
Signatures: Required from both parties to confirm the sale

These essential details ensure clear documentation, reducing the risk of disputes or misunderstandings.

How to Register a Vehicle in Vermont

To register your vehicle in Vermont, you must complete the Vermont Registration Tax and Title Application (VD-119), submit all necessary documents, and pay the required fees. You may complete the process online, by mail, or in person.

When applying for registration, ensure you have the following:

Completed VD-119 Form: The official Vermont Registration Tax and Title Application.
Vehicle’s Title: The original title, which will be processed by the DMV.
Proof of Purchase: Typically, a bill of sale.
Odometer Reading: An updated reading for the vehicle.
Proof of Payment: Payment for Vermont’s registration fees and sales tax, and proof of any sales or use tax paid to a prior state.
Proof of Residency: New residents must provide a Vermont-issued credential.
Other Documents: Depending on the vehicle, you may need a VIN verification or proof of a valid safety and emissions inspection.

Steps to Register

You have three options to complete your registration:

Online: Visit the Vermont DMV portal to begin the process.
By Mail: Mail the completed forms, documents, and payment to the Vermont DMV at 120 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05603-0001.
In Person: Visit a DMV office or a participating town clerk’s office. (Note: In-person visits to the DMV may require an appointment, which can be scheduled online.)

Vermont VIN Check – Verify Vehicle History Before You Buy

Be sure to check the VIN and get the report before you decide to purchase the vehicle. Check the specifications and the records, like accident history, auction records, warranty status, 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

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 Vermont Bill of Sale

Is a bill of sale required to sell a car in Vermont?

Yes, a bill of sale is required for selling a car in Vermont, and the official form, VT-005, is the standard. This document provides the Vermont DMV with the necessary proof of the transaction to process the sale.

Can I create my own bill of sale in Vermont?

Yes, you can create your own bill of sale in Vermont, provided it includes all necessary information: the buyer’s and seller’s details, a full description of the item, the purchase price, and both parties’ signatures. For a vehicle, you must also include the VIN, odometer reading (for newer models), and other specific vehicle details.

Does a bill of sale confirm ownership in Vermont?

While a bill of sale legally records the transfer of ownership, for vehicles and boats in Vermont, it is not the sole proof of ownership; the signed-over title is also required. Both documents together allow you to register the vehicle with the Vermont DMV.

Where can I find a Vermont bill of sale form?

The official Vermont bill of sale form, “Bill of Sale and Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form VT-005),” is available on the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. This standard motor vehicle form can also be found on other Vermont government sites and third-party form providers.

Does the Vermont bill of sale need to be notarised?

No, a standard Vermont bill of sale does not need notarization. The one exception is the Affidavit of Non-Titled Vehicle form (VT-025), which must be notarised when transferring a vehicle that is not titled in Vermont.