Free Illinois Vehicle Bill of Sale (2026 PDF)
An Illinois vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of a motor vehicle between a private seller and a buyer in the State of Illinois. It serves as a receipt outlining the exact purchase price, vehicle specifications, and the date of the transaction. This document protects both parties by detailing the agreed-upon terms and providing evidence of the sale for tax and liability purposes.
While the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) does not strictly require a bill of sale to transfer a title if the purchase price is clearly listed on the title assignment, having one is highly recommended to properly assess the Private Party Vehicle Use Tax (RUT-50). Illinois law does not require a bill of sale or the vehicle title to be notarized. However, sellers are legally mandated to remove their license plates and submit a Seller's Report of Sale (VSD 703) to remove liability for the vehicle.
Illinois Automobile Bill of Sale
Official printable document required for the private sale and title transfer of a vehicle in Illinois. This PDF is optimized for clear printing and accepted by local county tax and DMV offices.
How to Sell a Vehicle in Illinois: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Negotiate the purchase price and agree on the payment method. Ensure both the buyer and seller verify each other's identities before proceeding with the transaction.
Step 2: Complete a vehicle bill of sale detailing the VIN, make, model, year, and purchase price. Both parties must also accurately record the mileage on the Odometer Disclosure Statement located on the title.
Step 3: Sign and date the bill of sale and the vehicle title. Illinois does not require a notary public to witness these signatures, making the paperwork straightforward.
Step 4: The seller must remove their license plates before handing over the keys; plates belong to the seller, not the vehicle. The seller must also immediately file a Seller's Report of Sale (VSD 703) with the Secretary of State.
Step 5: Within 20 days, the buyer must take the signed title, bill of sale, Application for Vehicle Transaction (VSD 190), Private Party Vehicle Tax Form (RUT-50), and proof of insurance to a local SOS facility to register the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Vehicle Bills of Sale
Do I need a bill of sale to sell a vehicle in Illinois?
While the Illinois Secretary of State does not explicitly require a separate bill of sale if the title includes the purchase price, it is highly recommended. It serves as proof of the transaction amount, which is essential for calculating the Private Party Vehicle Use Tax (RUT-50).
Does an Illinois vehicle bill of sale need to be notarized?
No, the State of Illinois does not require a vehicle bill of sale or the title transfer signatures to be notarized. Both the buyer's and seller's signatures are legally binding without a notary.
Can I write my own bill of sale in Illinois?
Yes, you can write your own or use a generic bill of sale form. Illinois does not have an official, mandatory bill of sale form for private vehicle transactions, so any template that includes the buyer and seller details, vehicle information (VIN, make, model), purchase price, and signatures is acceptable by the SOS.
Are private vehicle sales in Illinois considered 'as-is'?
Yes, private vehicle sales in Illinois are generally considered 'as-is' transactions. The Illinois Lemon Law does not cover used vehicles purchased from private sellers. Buyers should have the vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic prior to purchase, as they assume all risks once the sale is finalized.
How is sales tax calculated on a private vehicle sale in Illinois?
In Illinois, private vehicle sales are subject to the Private Party Vehicle Use Tax (form RUT-50). The tax amount is determined by tax tables provided by the Illinois Department of Revenue, which are based on the vehicle's model year and purchase price, or its fair market value if the stated purchase price is unusually low.
What documents does the buyer need to bring to the Illinois DMV?
To successfully transfer the title, the buyer must bring the original signed vehicle title, a completed Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (Form VSD 190), the Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction (Form RUT-50), a bill of sale (recommended), proof of valid Illinois auto insurance, and payment for title, registration, and tax fees to a local Secretary of State facility.