Motorcycle Sale Receipt
A motorcycle sale receipt is proof that a private sale occurred. It should include the VIN stamped on the frame, the sale price, both parties’ names and addresses, and signatures from the seller and the buyer. Without a signed receipt, the buyer may have difficulty completing DMV title transfer and the seller has no documented proof of the sale date — which matters if the buyer receives a ticket or is in an accident before the title is transferred.
What to Include on a Motorcycle Sale Receipt
Include all seven fields below to satisfy DMV requirements and protect both parties.
- 1
Seller name and address
Full legal name and current mailing address of the person selling the motorcycle. This must match the name on the title certificate.
- 2
Buyer name and address
Full legal name and current mailing address of the person purchasing the motorcycle. The DMV will use this information when issuing the new title.
- 3
Motorcycle VIN (stamped on frame near steering head)
The full Vehicle Identification Number as it appears stamped on the frame. Do not use a sticker VIN. The frame VIN must match the title certificate exactly.
- 4
Year, make, and model
The model year, manufacturer (e.g., Honda, Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki), and model name or designation as shown on the title certificate.
- 5
Odometer reading
The mileage shown on the odometer at the time of sale. Federal law requires odometer disclosure on vehicle sales. Record the reading and note if the odometer is not actual (e.g., rolled over or broken).
- 6
Sale price
The agreed purchase price in dollars. If the motorcycle is sold as a gift or for a nominal amount, state that explicitly. The DMV uses this figure when calculating sales tax owed by the buyer.
- 7
Both signatures and date
Original signatures from both the seller and the buyer, with the date the receipt was signed. Each party should retain a signed copy.
Motorcycle-Specific Notes
VIN location: On most motorcycles, the frame VIN is stamped on the steering head — the tube at the front of the frame where the front forks attach. Look for a metal stamp, not a sticker. Verify this number against the title certificate before the buyer leaves, as a mismatch will block DMV title transfer.
Title classification: The title certificate should say “motorcycle” in the vehicle type field, not “passenger vehicle” or “automobile.” An incorrect classification can cause problems when the buyer registers the motorcycle.
Separate state forms: Some states — including California, Florida, and Texas — have dedicated motorcycle title transfer forms that must be submitted alongside the bill of sale. Check your state DMV website for motorcycle- specific requirements before the sale is finalized.
Generate Your Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Fill in the motorcycle details, download the PDF, and sign with the buyer. The generated document covers all seven required fields and is accepted by DMVs in all 50 states as a motorcycle sale receipt.