Alabama Bill of Sale Requirements & Free Form

Alabama requirements

• For titled vehicles, ownership transfers through the certificate of title: the seller assigns the existing title to the buyer, and the buyer applies for a new Alabama title through a designated agent such as the county license plate issuing official.
• The Alabama Department of Revenue states that anyone acquiring a new or used motor vehicle must obtain a license plate within 20 calendar days of acquisition.
• A bill of sale is not listed by the Department of Revenue as a required title document when a properly assigned title exists, but county licensing officials may ask for supporting purchase documents, so bringing one is prudent.
• Alabama does not impose a general notarization requirement on private party bills of sale; confirm any county specific practice with your county license plate issuing official.
• The title assignment includes an odometer disclosure for most recent model year vehicles; complete it carefully and confirm specifics with the Alabama Department of Revenue.
• Alabama does not publish a single mandatory statewide bill of sale form for private sales, so a general purpose bill of sale like ours can document the transaction alongside the assigned title.

Frequently asked questions

Does a bill of sale need to be notarized in Alabama?

The Alabama Department of Revenue does not list notarization as a general requirement for private party bills of sale. Some county offices have their own documentation practices, so check with your county license plate issuing official before the sale.

Where do I transfer a vehicle title in Alabama and how long do I have?

Title applications go through a designated agent, most commonly the county license plate issuing official. The Department of Revenue requires a license plate within 20 calendar days of acquiring the vehicle, so start the transfer promptly.

Official sources

• https://www.revenue.alabama.gov/faqs/i-just-acquired-a-vehicle-how-many-days-do-i-have-to-title-and-register-this-vehicle/
• https://www.revenue.alabama.gov/faqs/what-documents-will-i-need-to-make-application-for-alabama-certificate-of-title/