Can a bill of sale in Texas be handwritten?

Yes. As long as the document meets all legal requirements, it can be handwritten.

Do I need to notarize the bill of sale in Texas?

No. Notarization is not required in Texas.

Understanding Vehicle Bill Of Sale In Texas (2026)

Sarah Edwards

Contributor

Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.

Editor

February 23, 2026 Read in 3 mins

What Is a Texas Vehicle Bill of Sale?
Is a Bill of Sale Required in Texas?
What Information Should Be Included in a Texas Vehicle Bill of Sale?
Types of Texas Vehicle Bills of Sale
What to Do After Getting a Texas Bill of Sale
Can You Use a Digital Bill of Sale in Texas?
What if the Vehicle Condition Doesn't Match the Bill of Sale?
Need Legal Help? Contact ConsumerShield

Summary

Texas doesn’t require a vehicle bill of sale
The bill of sale doesn’t officially transfer ownership of the car

If you buy or sell a car privately in Texas, there are numerous documents you may need to fill out. One of these is the vehicle bill of sale. While not required in the state, it is always an important option to consider because it provides proof of the change in ownership, protecting you from liability.

For example, if the car is involved in receiving a ticket for breaking the Texas speed limit, you’ll want to be able to readily prove you’re no longer the owner. Learn more about the importance of a vehicle bill of sale in Texas.

What Is a Texas Vehicle Bill of Sale?

When it comes to how to sell a car in Texas, the bill of sale functions as a legal document that records the transfer of ownership. Both the seller and buyer need to sign the document.

Is a Bill of Sale Required in Texas?

A vehicle bill of sale isn’t a legal requirement for transferring ownership of the car in Texas. Instead, the seller has to file a Vehicle Transfer Notification with the DMV, along with the signed title. Having a bill of sale, however, can provide further protection for both parties.

What Information Should Be Included in a Texas Vehicle Bill of Sale?

In a vehicle bill of sale in Texas, you must include the following:

Name of the buyer and seller
Basic information on the vehicle
Sale price
Odometer reading

An as-is clause is also helpful.

Types of Texas Vehicle Bills of Sale

For private sales, you have the standard Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale. You can choose an As-Is Bill of Sale that specifies the vehicle is sold in its current condition.

Additionally, you have the Gift Transfer Bill of Sale, which allows the seller to give the vehicle as a gift. The Dealer Bill of Sale is for dealership transactions. There are also Boat/Vessel Bill of Sale forms.

What to Do After Getting a Texas Bill of Sale

As the seller, you’ll need to file a Vehicle Transfer Notification form within 30 days to avoid any type of liability. The buyer must transfer the title, pay sales taxes and register the vehicle.

Can You Use a Digital Bill of Sale in Texas?

You can use digital bill of sale forms in Texas for recordkeeping, though the DMV will generally ask for a real copy.

What if the Vehicle Condition Doesn't Match the Bill of Sale?

If the vehicle doesn’t match the condition stated in the bill of sale, the buyer may begin legal action against the seller. That’s the case even if the bill of sale had an as-is clause, as long as the description provided there doesn’t match the vehicle’s actual condition.

Need Legal Help? Contact ConsumerShield

If you need help after purchasing a vehicle, the team at ConsumerShield offers numerous online tools to assist you with your legal needs. Explore our collection of resources today.