Free New York Vehicle Bill of Sale PDF (2026)
A New York vehicle bill of sale acts as a legal receipt documenting the transfer of a vehicle between a buyer and a seller. It outlines essential transaction details, including the purchase price, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the date of sale, protecting both parties against future disputes and confirming the exact conditions of the trade.
In New York, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) strictly requires a bill of sale to register a vehicle and transfer the title. While the state provides an official document, Form MV-912, you can legally use a generic form as long as it contains all required information. A notary public is not legally required to witness or sign a New York vehicle bill of sale, making the private sale process more straightforward. However, both parties must also complete Form DTF-802 (Statement of Transaction) to declare the purchase price for sales tax purposes.
New York Automobile Bill of Sale
Official printable document required for the private sale and title transfer of a vehicle in New York. This PDF is optimized for clear printing and accepted by local county tax and DMV offices.
How to Buy and Sell a Vehicle Privately in New York
Step 1: Agree on the purchase price and terms of the sale. The buyer should verify the seller's identity and ensure the vehicle has a clear New York title without any active, unpaid liens.
Step 2: Complete the New York Vehicle Bill of Sale (Form MV-912) and the Statement of Transaction (Form DTF-802). Both the buyer and the seller must sign the bill of sale. Record the accurate odometer reading directly on the back of the title.
Step 3: New York law does not require the bill of sale or the title transfer signatures to be notarized. Simply ensure all printed names and signatures identically match the legal names printed on the front of the title.
Step 4: The seller must sign the title over to the buyer. Crucially, under New York law, the seller must remove their license plates and the registration windshield sticker; plates do not transfer to the buyer. The seller must surrender these plates to the DMV before canceling their auto insurance.
Step 5: The buyer must visit a local NY DMV office to register the vehicle, pay the calculated sales tax, and apply for a new title. Once registered, the buyer has exactly 10 days to pass a mandatory New York State safety and emissions inspection.
New York Vehicle Bill of Sale & Title Transfer FAQs
Do I need a bill of sale to sell a vehicle in New York?
Yes, a bill of sale is strictly required in New York to transfer ownership and register the vehicle. It serves as legal proof of purchase and is required by the NY DMV alongside the title.
Does a New York vehicle bill of sale need to be notarized?
No, the New York DMV does not require a vehicle bill of sale, nor the signatures on the certificate of title, to be notarized.
Can I write my own bill of sale in New York?
Yes. While the NY DMV provides the official Form MV-912 (Vehicle Bill of Sale), they will accept a generic or handwritten bill of sale provided it includes the year, make, model, VIN, purchase price, date of sale, and the signatures of both the buyer and the seller.
Are private vehicle sales in New York considered 'as-is'?
Yes, private vehicle sales in New York are generally considered 'as-is.' The New York Lemon Law for used cars only applies to vehicles purchased from registered auto dealers, not private sellers. Buyers assume all risks and should have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before finalizing the purchase.
How is sales tax calculated on a private vehicle sale in New York?
Sales tax in New York is calculated based on the actual purchase price listed on the bill of sale or the fair market value of the vehicle, whichever is higher. Buyers must submit Form DTF-802 (Statement of Transaction), which the state uses to assess the appropriate state and local sales tax rates.
What documents does the buyer need to bring to the New York DMV?
To successfully transfer the title and register the vehicle, the buyer must bring the original signed Title, a completed Bill of Sale (MV-912), the Statement of Transaction (DTF-802), a Vehicle Registration/Title Application (MV-82), proof of New York State auto insurance (FS-20 ID card), valid proof of identity and date of birth, and payment for all registration fees and sales tax.