Ohio Vehicle Bill of Sale Form
An Ohio Vehicle Bill of Sale Form is an official document that primarily records the transfer of vehicle ownership. It details the sale and purchase of a vehicle between a seller and a buyer in Ohio.
Why Do You Need an Ohio Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A Vehicle Bill of Sale is vital in Ohio when transferring a vehicle title. You also need it to register with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). It should include key info like:
- The vehicle identification number (VIN).
- The make and model of the car.
- The year and the odometer reading for cars under 10 years old.
- The agreed purchase price: This is used to calculate the sales tax.
The buyer and seller must sign the agreement form for the BMV to accept it. Note that you must notarize the vehicle title itself for transfer. This provides an additional layer of security to the sale.
Common Uses of an Ohio Vehicle Bill of Sale
This form formally signifies that the seller no longer owns the vehicle. It transfers all associated liability to the buyer. For the buyer, it is primary evidence of their new ownership. It is necessary for securing registration, insurance, and future resale.
A properly executed Ohio Bill of Sale Form:
- Ensures compliance with state regulations.
- Aids timely title transfer
- It helps prevent future disputes.

Yes, a Bill of Sale Form is essential for selling a car legally in Ohio. The buyer is required to complete the transfer of title and the vehicle registration with the Ohio BMV. This form proves the purchase. You will also need this form to finalize this process correctly and promptly.
An Ohio Bill of Sale should include the buyer's and seller's full legal names and addresses. The date of the transfer, the vehicle's year, make, model, VIN, and current odometer reading. It should also specify the sale price that the buyer has agreed to pay.
In most cases, an Ohio Bill of Sale does not require notarization to be legally valid. However, the vehicle title in Ohio often needs the signature of the seller to be notarized to transfer ownership legally. This process is required for the Ohio BMV to process the change in ownership.
The buyer needs a Bill of Sale to transfer a vehicle title in Ohio. This must be accompanied by a properly signed-over and notarized vehicle title from the seller. They also need a completed BMV Form 3774 (Application for Certificate of Title). The proof of payment for sales tax, title transfer, and registration fees is also included. These together are then taken to a local county clerk of court’s title office.