bill of sale should include the date and price of sale, vehicle information, odometer reading, and the buyer and seller’s information and signatures.

The bill of sale is an important legal document for privately sold vehicles. The requirement for a bill of sale for private sales differs from state to state but it is recommended to complete one. The bill of sale should include the terms of agreement so that it can be used as proof of the transaction when you

sell a vehicle

buy a car in Florida

If you need to complete a bill of sale, you can use a template if it is provided by your local DMV. You can also create one that includes all the required information. To help you out, we've compiled what you need to know about completing a Florida bill of sale.

What is a bill of sale?

bill of sale

is basically your receipt for the private sale of a car. Information about the vehicle, the buyer and seller, odometer reading, and the purchase price and date are usually included in the bill of sale. It’s a good idea to have your terms of agreement with the other party clearly indicated for future reference.

Having the bill of sale does not automatically mean the car ownership has been transferred to you. You will need to get a

title transfer

at your local DMV to issue a certificate of title in your name, as it is the legal document that proves ownership of the car.

Is a bill of sale required in Florida?

A bill of sale for private car sales is required in the state of Florida. This document will be your proof of the transaction, the date of transfer, and the purchase price. You will also need it for your title transfer.

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What is required in a Florida bill of sale?

If you are buying or selling a car in Florida, you can download a

sample bill of sale

from the Florida DMV website. You can also create your own with the following information:

Basic vehicle details, including make, model, year, body style, and color

Certificate of title number (found on the vehicle title)

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Odometer disclosure statement.

Seller's printed names and address, signature, and the date signed

Buyer's printed names and address, signature, and the date signed

Sell date and sell price

What should I do after I get a bill of sale?

Once the bill of sale is complete and you have possession of the car, you will need to complete a title transfer. Some states will require the bill of sale to be notarized. Although the bill of sale records the terms of agreement between the parties, it cannot be used to prove car ownership.

The process to get a title transfer can be different in each state, but it is straightforward. In some states, the seller will have to report the sale to their local DMV and turn their plates in. The buyer will need to register the new vehicle at the DMV to get new plates issued under their name.

Be sure to keep a copy of the completed bill of sale for your records as proof of the terms of agreement, especially if you are buying a car in Florida and taking possession of the car before the title transfer.

How to find affordable car insurance

After completing the bill of sale, transferring your title, and registering your car, you’ll need a new car insurance policy. Using the car insurance broker app

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