What Is A Vehicle Bill Of Sale In Florida? (2026)
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Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
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- What Is a Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale?
- When Do You Need a Vehicle Bill of Sale in Florida?
- What Information to Include in a Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale
- Common Types of Florida Vehicle Bills of Sale
- Does a Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale Need to Be Notarized?
- Registering Your Vehicle After Completing a Bill of Sale
- Do You Need More Than One Copy of a Florida Bill of Sale?
- Get Legal Help From ConsumerShield
Summary
- A bill of sale is recommended, but not always required, in Florida
- There are a few different types of bills of sale
- A bill of sale helps protect you from liability
When it comes to how to sell a car in Florida, there are a few forms you’ll need to fill out to protect your interests or ensure the process is legal. The bill of sale is one of these.
It’s a record of the transfer of ownership and can help protect you from liability if, for example, the new car owner breaks Florida traffic laws and causes an accident. Learn more about the importance of a vehicle bill of sale in Florida.
What Is a Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A vehicle bill of sale in Florida is a legal document that records the transfer of a vehicle’s ownership from the seller to the buyer. It functions somewhat like a receipt.
The vehicle’s title is the main document in a sale, but the bill of sale form is needed to complete the registration and title transfer. Often, it also serves as an “as-is” clause. This prevents future disputes regarding the vehicle’s condition.
When Do You Need a Vehicle Bill of Sale in Florida?
A vehicle bill of sale is important when you sell a car privately because it can prove ownership transfer. It is usually required for registering the vehicle if the title is incomplete.
What Information to Include in a Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale
The document should include the names of the buyer and seller, the purchase price, the date of the transaction and the vehicle description. Most of the time, it will also include the license plate number.
Common Types of Florida Vehicle Bills of Sale
In Florida, the most common type of bill of sale is the Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale, which covers cars, trucks and motorcycles. There is also a Boat/Vessel Bill of Sale for transferring boat ownership, and a Mobile Home Bill of Sale for mobile home sales.
Does a Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale Need to Be Notarized?
You're not required to have this form notarized, but it's a good idea to do so. It confirms that both parties signed the document and that you’re no longer the vehicle’s owner.
Registering Your Vehicle After Completing a Bill of Sale
To register the vehicle in Florida after completing the bill of sale, you must transfer the title within 30 days to avoid fines. You'll need to complete the Application for Certificate of Motor Vehicle Title. Registration fees in Florida vary based on the vehicle's size and weight, and first-time registrants are typically required to pay a one-time initial fee of $225.
Do You Need More Than One Copy of a Florida Bill of Sale?
It’s wise to have two copies made. This allows the seller and the buyer to each have a copy.
Get Legal Help From ConsumerShield
If you need legal help, ConsumerShield offers a variety of resources to explore. Get started by checking out our legal tools today.
Vehicle Bill of Sale
Create a legally binding vehicle bill of sale for private transactions. Covers sales, gifts, and trades. Includes VIN, federal odometer disclosure, smog certification, lien status, and state-specific titling rules. All 50 states. Instant PDF download.
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View Legal FormBill Of Sale Knowledge Base
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. As long as all of the requirements are met and the document has been signed, a handwritten bill of sale is typically valid.
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Yes. The bill of sale states the price of the vehicle, making it easier to calculate sales tax.
