California Vehicle Bill of Sale (2026)
A California vehicle bill of sale acts as a legally binding receipt that protects both the buyer and the seller during a private transaction. It outlines the agreed-upon purchase price, vehicle identification number (VIN), and specific sale conditions, establishing a clear record of the transfer of ownership.
California Automobile Bill of Sale
Official printable document required for the private sale and title transfer of a vehicle in California. This PDF is optimized for clear printing and accepted by local county tax and DMV offices.
Step-by-Step Guide to Selling a Vehicle in California
Step 1: Negotiate the purchase price and payment method. The seller should verify the buyer's identity using a valid driver's license to ensure accurate details for the bill of sale and liability release.
Step 2: Complete the California Bill of Sale (Form REG 135). For vehicles under 20 years old, accurately record the current mileage on the title or use a secure Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form (REG 262) for the odometer disclosure.
Step 3: Both parties must sign the bill of sale and the Certificate of Title. Under California law, a notary public is not required to witness or seal these signatures.
Step 4: The seller hands over the signed title, valid smog certificate (passed within 90 days prior), and the keys. Standard California license plates remain with the vehicle, but sellers should remove toll transponders and custom plates. The seller must submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) within 5 days.
Step 5: The buyer has 10 days to submit the signed title, bill of sale, smog certificate, and proof of insurance to their local DMV office, where they will pay the required transfer fees and vehicle use tax.
Frequently Asked Questions About California Vehicle Bills of Sale
Do I need a bill of sale to sell a vehicle in California?
While the California DMV primarily relies on the signed Certificate of Title to process ownership transfers, a Bill of Sale (Form REG 135) is legally required if the title lacks a designated space for the purchase price or if the seller's name is not on the title. Regardless, it is highly recommended as a legal receipt for both parties.
Does a California vehicle bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. California does not require a vehicle bill of sale or title signatures to be notarized. The buyer and seller's signatures on the documents are legally sufficient to execute the transfer.
Can I write my own bill of sale in California?
Yes, you can draft your own bill of sale or use a generic template provided it includes the vehicle details (VIN, make, model, year), purchase price, buyer and seller information, and signatures. However, using the DMV's official Form REG 135 is widely recommended to ensure all necessary data is captured.
Are private vehicle sales in California considered "as-is"?
Yes, private vehicle sales in California are strictly "as-is." The state's Lemon Law does not cover vehicles purchased from private sellers. Buyers are strongly encouraged to arrange a pre-purchase mechanical inspection before handing over funds.
How is sales tax calculated on a private vehicle sale in California?
The buyer is responsible for paying vehicle use tax to the DMV during registration. The tax is calculated based on the purchase price stated on the bill of sale or title, plus the applicable local city and county district tax rates where the buyer resides.
What documents does the buyer need to bring to the California DMV?
To successfully transfer a vehicle title, the buyer must bring the signed Certificate of Title, a valid Smog Certificate (if the vehicle is over 8 model years old and not gas-exempt), proof of California auto insurance, the completed Bill of Sale, an Odometer Disclosure (on the title or Form REG 262), and payment for transfer fees and taxes.