Motorcycle bill of sale — what to include

A bill of sale is your primary legal record of a private motorcycle transaction. Done correctly, it protects both buyer and seller and satisfies DMV requirements in most states. Here is exactly what to include.

Required fields

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The 17-character VIN from the motorcycle's frame and title. Buyers should verify the VIN on the frame matches the title and any listing documents.

Year, Make, and Model

Full description as it appears on the title: e.g., "2021 Yamaha MT-09". Include the trim or variant if applicable (e.g., "SP" or "ABS").

Odometer reading

The actual mileage at the time of sale, written both in numerals and spelled out. Federal law (Truth in Mileage Act) requires odometer disclosure for most vehicles under 20 years old.

Selling price

The agreed purchase price in numerals and written out (e.g., "$6,500 — Six thousand five hundred dollars"). This is what the DMV will use to calculate sales tax in most states.

As-is language

"Sold as-is, with no warranties expressed or implied." This is critical — it establishes that the buyer accepts the motorcycle in its current condition and releases you from post-sale liability.

Date of sale

The calendar date on which the sale is completed and payment is exchanged. This is the date that starts the buyer's clock for title transfer.

Seller information

Full legal name, current address, and phone number or email address. The name must match the title exactly.

Buyer information

Full legal name, current address, and phone number or email address. The name used here is what will appear on the new title.

Both signatures

Both buyer and seller must sign and date the bill of sale. In states that require notarization (Louisiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Hawaii, North Dakota, Montana), both signatures must be made in front of a notary public.

Recommended additions

Color and any significant cosmetic features
List of included accessories (helmet, cover, extra keys)
Disclosure of any known mechanical issues
Whether the motorcycle has ever been in an accident
Copy of current registration
List of recent repairs or service performed

States that require a notarized bill of sale or title

In 6 states, the seller's signature on the title and/or the bill of sale must be notarized by a licensed notary public before the title can be transferred. Failing to notarize in these states means the DMV will reject the transfer.

Hawaii Louisiana Montana North Dakota Ohio West Virginia

Where to find a notary: your bank (usually free for customers), UPS Store, FedEx Office, or a mobile notary app such as Notarize or PandaDoc Notary.

Download the MotoHub bill of sale checklist

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Sample motorcycle bill of sale template

MOTORCYCLE BILL OF SALE Date of Sale: ____________________ SELLER Full Name: ________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ City, State, ZIP: __________________________________ Phone / Email: ____________________________________ BUYER Full Name: ________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ City, State, ZIP: __________________________________ Phone / Email: ____________________________________ VEHICLE DESCRIPTION Year: ______ Make: ________________ Model: _____________________ Color: _______________ VIN: ____________________________________ Odometer at Time of Sale: ______________ miles SALE TERMS Selling Price: $____________ (_________________________________ dollars) This motorcycle is sold AS-IS, with no warranties expressed or implied. The seller makes no representations regarding the mechanical condition of the vehicle beyond what has been disclosed in writing. SIGNATURES Seller Signature: __________________________ Date: ____________ Print Name: ____________________________________________________ Buyer Signature: ___________________________ Date: ____________ Print Name: ____________________________________________________ [ ] Notarized (required in LA, OH, WV, HI, ND, MT) Notary Signature: _________________________ Date: ____________ Notary Commission Expires: ________________

Find your state guide Full sale guide (9 steps)

This template is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements vary by state — verify current DMV requirements before completing your transaction.