Wisconsin Bill of Sale Requirements & Free Form

Wisconsin requirements

• Wisconsin DMV offers a bill of sale for convenience and states plainly that it is not a required form. Our general bill of sale is a general purpose alternative that covers the same details and also works for non vehicle property.
• The seller signs and dates the title in the space for the selling owner. If the title lists owners joined by "and", every owner must sign; if joined by "or", any one owner may sign.
• The seller fills in the selling price and the buyer's name and address, completes any brand disclosures, and provides lien release documents if a lien is recorded.
• Odometer disclosure is required for vehicles of model year 2011 or newer, and the seller must state whether the mileage is actual, not actual, or in excess of mechanical limits. Wisconsin DMV notes this is a federal requirement.
• The seller should remove the license plates, with narrow exceptions such as heavier trucks, mopeds and trailers, and complete the seller notification for a private sale between individuals.
• Under Wis. Stat. 342.15 the seller assigns and warrants title on the certificate and the buyer must promptly execute the application for a new certificate of title and deliver it to the department. The statute says promptly rather than naming a number of days, so file without delay and confirm the current processing rules and fees with Wisconsin DMV.

Frequently asked questions

Is a bill of sale required in Wisconsin?

No. Wisconsin DMV provides a bill of sale for convenience and states that it is not a required form. A written bill of sale is still useful proof of price, date and condition for both parties, and DMV separately asks the seller to complete the seller notification for a private sale.

Who handles a Wisconsin title transfer and how fast must it happen?

The Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles. Wis. Stat. 342.15 requires the buyer to promptly execute the application for a new certificate of title and deliver it to the department, and it sets forfeiture penalties for failing to apply on transfer, so do not let it sit.

Official sources

• https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/vehicles/sll-jnk-vhcl/sellyourvehicle.aspx
• https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/342/ii/15