What is a semi truck bill of sale?

A semi truck bill of sale is a legal document that records the private transfer of a semi truck between a buyer and seller. It documents the sale price, vehicle identification number, both parties' names and addresses, the odometer reading, and the date of sale. Both parties keep a signed original as proof of the transaction.

Is a semi truck bill of sale required by law?

Requirements vary by state. Most states require or strongly recommend a signed bill of sale to transfer vehicle ownership and calculate sales tax at the DMV. Select your state above for state-specific requirements.

Does a semi truck bill of sale need to be notarized?

Notarization is required in a few states — including Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Most states accept a signed bill of sale without notarization for private party transfers.

How long should I keep a semi truck bill of sale?

Keep a signed copy for at least 5 years after the sale. The bill of sale is your legal proof that the transfer occurred on a specific date, protecting you from liability for future incidents or unpaid fines involving the vehicle.

Semi Truck Bill of Sale

A semi truck bill of sale is a legal document that records the private sale of a semi truck between a buyer and a seller. It captures the sale price, vehicle details, and signatures from both parties — providing proof of ownership transfer and protecting both sides of the transaction. Requirements vary by state; select your state below to get the correct form.

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Semi Truck Bill of Sale by State

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Semi Truck-specific legal information

Transfer notes

Semi truck title transfer involves commercial vehicle documentation. The buyer typically needs a CDL (Commercial Driver License) to operate the vehicle. IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) and IRP (International Registration Plan) credentials may need to be transferred or established.

Odometer disclosure

Semi trucks with a GVWR over 16,000 lbs are exempt from federal odometer disclosure under 49 CFR 580.17(a). Since virtually all semi trucks exceed this threshold, odometer disclosure is not required, though documenting mileage on the bill of sale is standard practice.

Applicable federal law: 49 CFR 580.17(a) — Odometer exemption; 49 CFR 383 — CDL Requirements; 26 USC 4481 — Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT)

Title and registration

Semi trucks receive a standard vehicle title with commercial classification. The title lists the GVWR and may indicate a commercial use designation. IRP-registered trucks carry cab cards that do not transfer with the vehicle.

Special disclosures

CDL requirement — Class A CDL is required to operate any combination vehicle over 26,001 lbs GCWR.
DOT inspection and annual inspection status should be documented. The vehicle must pass a current DOT inspection to operate legally.
Emission system compliance — EPA emission standards (EGR, DPF, DEF/SCR systems) must be intact. Delete modifications are illegal under the Clean Air Act.