California Bill of Sale Template

Seller: file the Notice of Transfer (NRL) within 5 days

After selling, submit the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability to the DMV within 5 days (online or form REG 138). It releases you from liability for parking tickets, tolls, and accidents involving the vehicle after the sale date.

Source: California DMV — Title Transfers

Buyer: report the transfer within 10 days

Any change in ownership must be reported to the DMV within 10 days and the title updated. The buyer completes the title transfer and pays transfer fees and use tax.

Source: California DMV — Title Transfers

Smog certification is the seller’s job

The seller must give the buyer a valid smog certification at sale. Exception: if the car is less than 4 model years old, no inspection is needed — the buyer pays a smog transfer fee instead.

Source: California DMV — Smog Inspections

REG 135 is the official form — ours mirrors its fields

California publishes an official Bill of Sale (REG 135). The DMV accepts any bill of sale with the same essentials (vehicle, VIN, price, parties, signatures) — this template covers them; no notarization required.

Source: California DMV — Forms (REG 135)

Is a bill of sale required in California?

A bill of sale is strongly recommended for any private sale in California because it documents the transfer, the price, and the "as-is" condition — protecting both buyer and seller. For a vehicle, the California DMV may also require it (or its own form) to transfer the title and register the vehicle. Check current requirements with the California DMV before you file.

Does a California bill of sale need to be notarized?

No — California does not require a bill of sale to be notarized (as of 2026). Notarizing is optional and adds proof, but isn’t needed to transfer the vehicle. Source: California DMV (Form REG 135).

How do I fill out and download the California bill of sale?

Enter the seller, buyer, item, price, and date in the form on this page. The document preview updates as you type. When it looks right, click "Download / Print PDF" and save it or print it — then both parties sign. Keep a copy each.

Is this California bill of sale legally valid?

A bill of sale is generally valid when it accurately identifies the parties and the item, states the price and date, and is signed by both the buyer and the seller. This template covers those elements. It is a general template, not legal advice — for high-value or complex sales, have an attorney review it.

How long do I have to transfer the title after buying a vehicle in California?

California gives the buyer 10 days after the sale to apply for a new title and registration. Source: Cal. Veh. Code § 5902 (amended Stats. 2001, ch. 826, eff. Jan. 1, 2002); California DMV private-party page.

Does California have an official bill of sale form?

Yes — Bill of Sale, Form REG 135 (REV. 2/2007). The DMV may prefer it for title work; you can attach it to the bill of sale you generate here. Source: California DMV Form REG 135 (REV. 2/2007).

Where do I register a vehicle bought from a private seller in California?

Title and registration in California are handled by the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Bring the signed title, this bill of sale, and proof of insurance and ID. Source: California DMV — How to Register Vehicles Purchased in Private Sales.