Motorcycle Bill of Sale Template, Free Download 2026
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When Do You Need a Motorcycle Bill of Sale?
You are buying or selling a motorcycle through a private party transaction and the DMV requires a bill of sale in addition to the signed title certificate to process the registration transfer and calculate the applicable sales tax on the purchase price.
The motorcycle you are purchasing does not have a title due to age, a missing title situation, or a salvage title that was never rebuilt, and you need a detailed bill of sale to initiate the bonded title process with your state DMV.
You want to document an as-is disclaimer for a private party motorcycle or motorbike bill of sale to confirm the buyer accepts the motorcycle in its current condition with no implied or express warranties, protecting the seller from post-sale mechanical claims.
Your state requires a VIN inspection for private party motorcycle sales and you need a bill of sale that includes the verified VIN to present alongside the inspection report at the DMV. You can verify the motorcycle is not stolen through the NICB VINCheck database before completing the transaction.
You are gifting a motorcycle to a family member or friend and need a bill of sale showing a zero-dollar transaction to satisfy DMV requirements and potentially qualify for a gift tax exemption on the registration. A vehicle bill of sale follows the same general format if you need one for a car instead.
The seller and buyer are in different states and need a motorcycle bill of sale that documents the transaction terms clearly so the buyer can register the motorcycle in their home state, which may have different requirements than the state where the sale occurs.
What Should a Motorcycle Bill of Sale Include?
Buyer and Seller Identification
Include the full legal names, mailing addresses, and driver license numbers of both the buyer and seller. Both names should match the identification documents exactly. If the seller's name does not match the name on the title, additional documentation such as a court order or marriage certificate may be needed at the DMV.
Motorcycle Description and VIN
Record the year, make, model, engine size (displacement in CCs), color, and VIN. The VIN on a motorcycle is typically found on the steering neck (headstock) and on the engine case. Verify the VIN stamped on the frame matches the title certificate and has not been altered or defaced, which would indicate potential theft or a salvage title issue.
Odometer Disclosure
The Odometer Disclosure Act applies to motorcycles the same as other motor vehicles. The seller must state the exact mileage at the time of sale and indicate whether the mileage is actual, exceeds mechanical limits, or is not the actual mileage. Some older or off-road motorcycles may not have odometers, which should be noted on the bill of sale.
Sale Price and Payment Method
State the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Identify the payment method (cash, cashier's check, or electronic transfer). If payments are made in installments, reference a separate promissory note builder outlining the schedule, amounts, and interest rate.
Condition and Warranty Disclosure
Specify whether the motorcycle is sold as-is or with any warranties. Disclose known mechanical issues, accident history, cosmetic damage, or modifications. If the motorcycle has a salvage title, rebuilt title, or is missing components, this section protects the seller from claims that defects were concealed.
Lien Status Disclosure
The seller must disclose whether any lien exists on the motorcycle. If a lienholder is listed on the title, the lien must be satisfied before or at the time of sale. Include the lienholder's name and contact information.
Signatures and Date
Both parties must sign and date the bill of sale. E-signatures are valid for motorcycle bills of sale in most states. Print at least two originals so each party has a signed copy. The buyer presents the bill of sale along with the signed title at the DMV to complete the registration transfer.
Legal Details: Key Clauses in a Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Parties
This Motorcycle Bill of Sale is made on [____________] by [____________] ("Seller") and [____________] ("Buyer").
Vehicle Description
Seller hereby sells and transfers to Buyer the following motorcycle (the "Motorcycle"): Year: [____________]; Make: [____________]; Model: [____________]; Color: [____________]; Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): [____________]; Engine Number: [____________]; License Plate Number: [____________]; State of Registration: [____________].
Odometer Reading
The odometer reading at the time of sale is [____________] miles. Seller certifies that to the best of Seller's knowledge, this reflects the actual mileage. [Federal law requires odometer disclosure for motorcycles with an odometer.]
Purchase Price and Payment
The Purchase Price is [$__________], paid by [cash / certified check / other: ____________]. Seller acknowledges full receipt.
Title Transfer
Seller shall deliver a properly endorsed certificate of title, free and clear of all liens, at the time of sale. Buyer shall transfer title and registration within the period required by state law.
Condition
The Motorcycle is sold "AS IS" without any warranty, express or implied. Buyer has inspected the Motorcycle and accepts it in its present condition. [OR: Seller provides the following warranty: ____________.]
Safety Inspection
[If required by state law:] The Motorcycle has passed safety inspection as required. Inspection date: [____________]. Certificate: [____________]. Buyer may be required to obtain an inspection in Buyer's state before registration.
Liens
Seller represents the Motorcycle is free from all liens and encumbrances. Seller shall indemnify Buyer against any pre-existing liens.
Taxes and Fees
Buyer is responsible for all sales tax, use tax, title fees, registration fees, and other charges.
Governing Law
This Bill of Sale is governed by the laws of the State of [_____________]. This constitutes the complete agreement regarding the sale.
Signature Requirements
Electronic Signature
Both buyer and seller must sign the motorcycle bill of sale. Electronic signatures are valid under ESIGN Act and UETA; however, Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, West Virginia, and Wyoming require notarization for motor vehicle title transfers including motorcycles.
Related Contracts & Agreements Templates
A motorcycle bill of sale is often used alongside other contracts & agreements documents. Depending on your situation, you may also need:
How to Fill Out a Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Enter Buyer and Seller Details
Fill in the full legal names, addresses, and driver license numbers for both parties. Double-check that the seller's name matches the name printed on the motorcycle's title certificate to avoid rejection at the DMV.
Describe the Motorcycle
Enter the year, make, model, engine displacement (CCs), color, and VIN. Physically inspect the VIN on the motorcycle's steering neck to confirm it matches the title. Use the NICB VINCheck tool to verify the motorcycle is not reported as stolen.
Record Odometer Reading
Write down the exact mileage shown on the odometer and select the appropriate disclosure statement. If the motorcycle does not have an odometer (common on dirt bikes and older models), check the box indicating the vehicle is exempt from odometer disclosure.
Enter the Sale Price
Write the purchase price in both numeric and written form. If the motorcycle is a gift, enter $0.00 and note that the transfer is a gift. The DMV uses this figure to calculate sales tax, so the stated price should reflect the actual amount paid.
Disclose Condition and Lien Status
Check the as-is box for private sales or describe any warranties offered. List any known defects or damage. Confirm whether the title is clear or if a lienholder must release the title. If the motorcycle has a salvage title, note this clearly.
Sign and Distribute Copies
Both the buyer and seller sign and date the printable motorcycle bill of sale. If your state requires notarization for motorcycle transfers, have it notarized at the time of signing. Give one original to the buyer for DMV registration and keep one original with the seller for their records.
Free Template vs Custom Motorcycle Bill of Sale
| Feature | Free Template | Custom (AI or Attorney) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic motorcycle and party fields | ||
| VIN verification and odometer sections | ||
| State-specific DMV complianceRequirements vary by state | - | |
| As-is and warranty language | - | |
| Attorney review and customization | - | |
| Printable motorcycle bill of sale (PDF/Word) |
Key Facts About Motorcycle Bill of Sale Documents
Most states require both bill of sale and signed title for motorcycle registration transfer.
Motorcycle without title may require bonded title process through state DMV.
VIN inspection may be required by state DMV for private party motorcycle sales.
NICB VINCheck allows buyers to verify motorcycle is not reported stolen.
Odometer Disclosure Act applies to motorcycles the same as other motor vehicles.
Key Legal Terms in a Motorcycle Bill of Sale
When a Free Template Is Not Enough
Free templates cover standard situations, but a professionally drafted motorcycle bill of sale accounts for state-specific requirements, unusual circumstances, and enforceability considerations that generic forms miss. If your situation involves significant assets, complex terms, or potential disputes, request an attorney-drafted motorcycle bill of sale with a custom quote based on your situation.
Motorcycle Bill of Sale Template FAQ
Do I need a bill of sale to register a motorcycle?
Does a motorcycle bill of sale need to be notarized?
What should be included in a motorcycle bill of sale?
Can I buy a motorcycle without a title?
How do I transfer a motorcycle title?
Is a VIN inspection required for motorcycle sale?
What is the difference between a motorcycle bill of sale and a title?
What states require a motorcycle bill of sale?
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