Michigan Vehicle Bill of Sale Form
The Michigan Vehicle Bill of Sale Form is a legal document used to register the sale of a motor vehicle in Michigan. It also records the transfer of ownership from a seller to a buyer.
Why Do You Need a Michigan Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A Bill of Sale is an important document when transferring a title to a vehicle in Michigan. This document is important for registering with the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS).
First, the Michigan Bill of Sale should have the full legal name and addresses of the buyer and seller. It 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 states the purchase price that they agreed upon. This is applied when calculating sales tax. Both the buyer and the seller have to sign the form for it to be accepted by the SOS.
Normally, the Michigan Bill of Sale itself does not need to be notarized. However, it is necessary to complete the odometer disclosure statement on the title.
Common Uses of a Michigan Vehicle Bill of Sale
This document has several uses, including:
- 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. This is what they’ll need 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.
- Gives Peace of Mind
This document helps prevent any future disputes. Thus, it brings peace to both parties.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Michigan Bill of Sale required to sell a car?
Yes, to sell a car in Michigan, you need this form. The buyer needs it to get the title transferred and register the vehicle with the Michigan SOS. The form also proves the purchase, speeds up the transfer procedure, and ensures its efficiency.
Does a Michigan Vehicle Bill of Sale need to be notarized?
A Michigan Bill of Sale normally does not need notarization to be legally valid. However, However, it’s important that both parties complete and sign the assignment for the vehicle title section. This also includes the odometer disclosure statement. Notarizing this form may provide additional legal assurance for the two parties in a private sale.
How do I transfer a car title in Michigan with a Vehicle Bill of Sale?
To transfer title, the buyer needs the Michigan Bill of Sale and the properly signed-over vehicle title from the seller.
They also need a filled-in Application for Michigan Title and Registration (Form TR-11L). These documents also include proof of payment for sales tax, title transfer, and registration fees. It must be submitted to a local Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office.