Texas Vehicle Bill of Sale (2026)
A Texas vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that provides official proof of the transfer of ownership of a motor vehicle between a buyer and a seller. This document outlines the specifics of the transaction, including the purchase price, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the contact information of both parties. It serves as a vital receipt for the buyer and offers liability protection for the seller once the vehicle leaves their possession.
In Texas, a standalone bill of sale is not strictly required by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) to transfer a title; however, it is highly recommended to accompany the mandatory Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U). The state of Texas does not require a vehicle bill of sale to be notarized. Still, the seller is legally obligated to submit a Vehicle Transfer Notification to the state within 30 days, and the buyer has 30 days to title and register the vehicle at their local county tax assessor-collector's office.
Texas Automobile Bill of Sale
Official printable document required for the private sale and title transfer of a vehicle in Texas. This PDF is optimized for clear printing and accepted by local county tax and DMV offices.
Step-by-Step Guide to Selling a Vehicle in Texas
Step 1: Agree on the purchase price and terms of the sale. Texas buyers and sellers should ensure funds are secured, often through a cashier's check or cash, before proceeding with the paperwork.
Step 2: Complete the bill of sale and strictly fill out the Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U). Record the exact mileage in the odometer disclosure section on the back of the title.
Step 3: Sign the necessary documents. While Texas does not legally require the bill of sale or the title transfer signatures to be notarized, both parties must sign and date the title and Form 130-U.
Step 4: The seller signs over the title to the buyer and removes the Texas license plates. Under Texas law, license plates stay with the seller, and keeping them protects the seller from future parking tickets or toll violations.
Step 5: The buyer takes the signed title, Form 130-U, bill of sale, proof of insurance, and a passing Texas Vehicle Inspection Report to the local county tax assessor-collector office within 30 days to pay taxes and register the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Vehicle Sales
Do I need a bill of sale to sell a vehicle in Texas?
While a bill of sale is not strictly mandatory to transfer the title in Texas, it is strongly recommended for your records. The TxDMV strictly requires Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title and/or Registration) to legally transfer ownership, which serves a similar function to a bill of sale.
Does a Texas vehicle bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. The state of Texas does not require a vehicle bill of sale, the vehicle title, or Form 130-U to be notarized during a private party sale.
Can I write my own bill of sale in Texas?
Yes, you can draft your own generic bill of sale or use a printable PDF template as a receipt. However, the Texas DMV requires the official Form 130-U to be completed and signed by both parties to actually process the title transfer.
Are private vehicle sales in Texas considered 'as-is'?
Yes. In Texas, all private party vehicle sales are considered 'as-is' and are not covered by the state's Lemon Law, which only applies to new vehicles purchased from licensed dealers. Buyers should have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic prior to purchase.
How is sales tax calculated on a private vehicle sale in Texas?
Texas calculates the 6.25% motor vehicle sales tax based on the actual purchase price listed on the bill of sale or the vehicle's Standard Presumptive Value (SPV), whichever is higher. If you buy a vehicle for less than its SPV, you will pay taxes on the SPV unless you obtain a certified appraisal.
What documents does the buyer need to bring to the Texas DMV?
To successfully transfer the title, the buyer must bring the original signed vehicle title, a completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U), a passing Texas Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR), proof of current liability insurance, a copy of the bill of sale (recommended), and payment for the title transfer fees and sales tax to their local county tax assessor-collector office.