California Bill of Sale Requirements
As of 2026, California strongly recommends a signed bill of sale for private vehicle transfers. California does not require notarization for standard private-party sales.
Required Fields
- 1Full legal names and addresses of buyer and seller
- 2VIN (17 characters)
- 3Year, make, model, and color of the vehicle
- 4Odometer reading in miles (required)
- 5Sale price in numerals and written form
- 6Sale date
- 7Signatures of both buyer and seller
California-Specific Requirements
✓ California does not require notarization for a standard private-party bill of sale.
Official California Form
California has an official form: Bill of Sale (REG 135). Obtain from the California DMV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bill of sale required in California?▾
California strongly recommends a bill of sale for all private vehicle sales. While a signed title alone may technically complete the transfer, a bill of sale protects both parties from disputes over the sale price, odometer reading, and vehicle condition.
What must be on a California vehicle bill of sale?▾
A California vehicle bill of sale must include: buyer and seller full legal names and addresses, the VIN, year, make, model, odometer reading, sale price (written and numeric), sale date, and signatures of both parties.
Does California require an emissions test for private sales?▾
Yes — California requires an emissions or smog test before the buyer can register a vehicle. Check with the California DMV for specific requirements in your county.
Create a California-compliant bill of sale
Create California Bill of Sale →More California guides
- How to Transfer a Car Title in California
- How to Write a Bill of Sale in California
- How to Sell a Car Privately in California
- Does California Require Notarization for a Bill of Sale?
- California Title Transfer Fees & Vehicle Taxes
- California car bill of sale generator
- California bill of sale (all vehicles)
- Bill of Sale Requirements — all states
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