California Bill of Sale Requirements & Free Form

California requirements

• Ownership transfers through the certificate of title: the seller signs the title over to the buyer, and the buyer submits it to the California DMV to complete the transfer.
• The DMV lists a Bill of Sale, form REG 135, among its title transfer forms; our template is a general purpose alternative when the official form is not required for your situation.
• Sellers must submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability to the DMV within 5 days of the sale, which limits liability for what happens with the vehicle afterward.
• The buyer should complete the DMV transfer promptly after the sale; confirm the current filing deadline and fees with the DMV before visiting.
• The DMV title transfer page does not spell out odometer disclosure rules for private sales; record the actual reading and confirm current odometer requirements with the California DMV.
• The DMV title transfer page does not list notarization as a step for a private party sale; confirm with the California DMV if your title or lien situation is unusual.

Frequently asked questions

Does California require a bill of sale for a private car sale?

The signed over title is the core transfer document, but the DMV publishes the REG 135 Bill of Sale among its transfer forms and it is wise to complete one. It documents the price, date, and parties, which matters for use tax and any later dispute.

What must a California seller file after the sale, and how fast?

A Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability must reach the DMV within 5 days of the sale. It can be submitted online and records that the vehicle changed hands, protecting the seller from parking tickets, toll violations, and other liability after the sale date.

Official sources

• https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/titles/title-transfers-and-changes/