Tennessee Bill of Sale Requirements
As of 2026, Tennessee strongly recommends a signed bill of sale for private vehicle transfers. Tennessee 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
Tennessee-Specific Requirements
✓ Tennessee does not require notarization for a standard private-party bill of sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bill of sale required in Tennessee?▾
Tennessee 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 Tennessee vehicle bill of sale?▾
A Tennessee 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 Tennessee require an emissions test for private sales?▾
Yes — Tennessee requires an emissions or smog test before the buyer can register a vehicle. Check with the Tennessee DMV for specific requirements in your county.
Create a Tennessee-compliant bill of sale
Create Tennessee Bill of Sale →More Tennessee guides
- How to Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee
- How to Write a Bill of Sale in Tennessee
- How to Sell a Car Privately in Tennessee
- Does Tennessee Require Notarization for a Bill of Sale?
- Tennessee Title Transfer Fees & Vehicle Taxes
- Tennessee car bill of sale generator
- Tennessee bill of sale (all vehicles)
- Bill of Sale Requirements — all states
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