Maryland Vehicle Bill of Sale Form
The Maryland Vehicle Bill of Sale Form is a legal document used to register the sale of a motor vehicle in Maryland. It also records the transfer of ownership from a seller to a buyer.
Why Do You Need a Maryland Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A Bill of Sale is an important document when transferring a title to a vehicle in Maryland. This is especially the Form VR-181. The form is important for registering with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) .
A Maryland Bill of Sale should have important details about the vehicle, such as:
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Make
- Model
- Year
- Current odometer reading (for a car under 10 years old)
The document also clearly states the agreed-upon purchase price, which is used for calculating excise tax. Both the buyer and seller must sign the form for it to be accepted by the MVA.
Usually, the Maryland Bill of Sale itself does not need to be notarized. However, the MVA advised that the buyer should have the odometer disclosure on the title for specific vehicles.
Common Uses of a Maryland Vehicle Bill of Sale
This document has several uses. They include:
- Transfer of Liability
This document formally shows that the seller no longer owns the vehicle. It completely transfers all the liabilities that come with the vehicle to the buyer.
- Evidence of Ownership
For the buyer, it is the main evidence of ownership of their new vehicle. They will need this to register, insure, and resell in the future.
- Fulfills State Requirements
A correctly executed form ensures that the sale complies with state requirements. This, in turn, helps with the easy transfer of titles.
- Ensures Peace of Mind
This document helps prevent any future disputes. Thus, it brings peace to both parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a Maryland Bill of Sale to sell a car?
Yes, to sell a car in Maryland, you need a Bill of Sale (Form VR-181). The buyer needs it to get the title transferred and register the vehicle with the Maryland MVA. The form proves the purchase and is also essential to process the efficient and accurate ownership transfer of a vehicle.
What specific information must be on a Maryland Vehicle Bill of Sale?
First, the Maryland Bill of Sale should have the full legal name and addresses of the buyer and seller. It should also have the details that can be used to identify the vehicle. It should also spell out the decided sale price and be signed by both parties to make it valid.
Does a Maryland Vehicle Bill of Sale need to be notarized?
Maryland Bill of Sale normally does not need notarization to be legally valid. However, the odometer disclosure statement on the title for vehicles older than 10 years should be notarized. This is to ensure it is authentic and prevent fraud. Always check the MVA to know the current requirements.
How do I transfer a car title in Maryland with a Vehicle Bill of Sale?
To transfer title, the buyer needs the Maryland Bill of Sale (Form VR-181) and the signed-over vehicle title from the seller. They also need a valid safety inspection certificate and an Application for Certificate (Form VR-008). These documents, along with excise tax and fees, should be submitted to the MVA.