Free New Jersey Vehicle Bill of Sale (2026 PDF)
A New Jersey vehicle bill of sale is an important legal document that records the transfer of ownership of a motor vehicle between a private seller and a buyer. It outlines critical details of the transaction, including the purchase price, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the date of sale, providing legal protection and a clear receipt for both parties.
Under New Jersey law, a bill of sale is not strictly required to transfer a title if the current title includes a designated space for the purchase price. However, if the title lacks this section, or if there is a discrepancy in the sale price, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) requires a signed bill of sale. Furthermore, New Jersey does not require a vehicle bill of sale or the title transfer to be notarized.
New Jersey Automobile Bill of Sale
Official printable document required for the private sale and title transfer of a vehicle in New Jersey. This PDF is optimized for clear printing and accepted by local county tax and DMV offices.
How to Sell a Vehicle in New Jersey (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Negotiate the purchase price and payment terms. Acceptable payment methods for private sales typically include cash, cashier's check, or secure electronic transfer.
Step 2: Complete a New Jersey vehicle bill of sale and fill out the back of the title. Both parties must sign, and the seller must record the exact purchase price and current odometer reading.
Step 3: Sign the documents. New Jersey does not require a notary public to witness the bill of sale or the title signatures.
Step 4: The seller must remove the license plates from the vehicle before handing over the keys. In New Jersey, plates stay with the seller and must be transferred to another vehicle or surrendered to the MVC.
Step 5: The buyer has 10 days to take the signed title, bill of sale, proof of valid New Jersey insurance, and the buyer's identification to a local MVC agency to pay the 6.625% sales tax, title fee, and register the vehicle.
New Jersey Vehicle Bill of Sale FAQs
Do I need a bill of sale to sell a vehicle in New Jersey?
A bill of sale is only legally required by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) if the vehicle's title does not have a designated space to write the purchase price. However, it is highly recommended to complete one in all private sales to serve as a legal receipt.
Does a New Jersey vehicle bill of sale need to be notarized?
No, New Jersey does not require a vehicle bill of sale or the vehicle title to be notarized. Both the buyer and seller simply need to sign and date the documents.
Can I write my own bill of sale in New Jersey?
Yes. The New Jersey MVC does not provide an official, mandatory bill of sale form, which means you can write your own or use a generic printable PDF. It must include the vehicle's year, make, model, VIN, purchase price, date of sale, and the signatures of both the buyer and seller.
Are private vehicle sales in New Jersey considered 'as-is'?
Yes, private vehicle sales in New Jersey are strictly 'as-is'. The New Jersey Used Car Lemon Law applies only to vehicles purchased from licensed dealerships, meaning private buyers assume all risks once the transaction is complete.
How is sales tax calculated on a private vehicle sale in New Jersey?
New Jersey charges a standard 6.625% sales tax on the purchase price listed on the title or bill of sale. However, if the purchase price is substantially lower than the fair market value, the MVC may require an explanation or tax the vehicle based on its standard presumptive value.
What documents does the buyer need to bring to the New Jersey MVC?
To successfully transfer the title and register the vehicle, the buyer must bring the original signed title, a bill of sale (if applicable), proof of valid New Jersey auto insurance, their driver's license, a completed Vehicle Registration Application (Form BA-49), and payment for the title transfer, registration fees, and sales tax.