Selling or buying a car in California? Fill in the free bill of sale below, then follow California’s title transfer rules. A bill of sale records the price, date, VIN and as-is terms; in California, as in most states, the signed title is what actually transfers ownership.
Free California Vehicle Bill of Sale template
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Vehicle Bill of Sale
Seller: ____, ____ Buyer: ____, ____
Vehicle
| Year | Make | Model | VIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| ____ | ____ | ____ | ____ |
Odometer reading: ____ miles. To the best of Seller’s knowledge this reflects the actual mileage, unless noted here: __.
Sale
On ____, Seller sold the vehicle to Buyer for $____, receipt of which Seller acknowledges.
As-is
The vehicle is sold as-is, where-is, without warranties of any kind, express or implied, except that Seller states they are the legal owner and the vehicle is free of liens and encumbrances unless listed here: __.
Title
Seller will sign over the certificate of title to Buyer. Buyer is responsible for registration, taxes and fees required by ____.
Seller: __ Date: __
Buyer: __ Date: __
This free template is general information, not legal advice, and may not suit your state or situation. Some documents must be signed before witnesses or a notary. For anything important, have a lawyer review it.
California rules to know
- Buyer: transfer within 10 days. California DMV: “Buyers have 10 days after purchasing the vehicle to transfer ownership.”
- Seller: report within 5 days. Sellers have 5 days after the sale to report the transfer to DMV (Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability).
- When a bill of sale is required: DMV requires one if the seller is not the person named on the title; it must be signed by the seller and the titled owner. California’s own form is REG 135.
- Also needed: the title signed by the seller, an odometer record for vehicles under 10 years old, smog certification, and fees and use tax.
What else you need
The certificate of title is what legally transfers ownership. Most states also require an odometer disclosure on the title for newer vehicles, and some require a state-specific bill of sale form or notarization. Check your DMV’s website.
Tips for sellers
- Remove your license plates if your state requires it.
- Notify the DMV and your insurer that you sold the car.
- Accept payment you can verify (cash or a cashier’s check confirmed with the bank).
Sources
California rules checked October 14, 2026. Laws and agency rules change; confirm with the state agency linked above. This is general information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bill of sale required in California?
Only when the seller is not the person named on the title (California DMV). California’s form is REG 135.
How long do you have to transfer a title in California?
Buyers have 10 days; sellers must report the sale within 5 days (California DMV).
Does a car bill of sale need to be notarized?
Only in some states. Check your state DMV’s requirements.
Is a bill of sale the same as a title?
No. The title transfers legal ownership; the bill of sale records the transaction.
Questions from readers
Question about the California Vehicle Bill of Sale? Ask it here. We answer common questions in general terms on this page. This is not legal advice.
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