A California bill of sale is a document used to record a private transaction wherein a buyer purchases personal property from a seller. The purpose of the form is to provide proof of the transfer of ownership. This proof is necessary for the sale of a vehicle, as the new owner will be required to register it with the California Department of Motor Vehicles. A boat bill of sale can be used for the very same function. In most transactions, the seller should retain a copy of the form as well, as the signed document indicates that they are released from ownership and liability.

Types (4)

Firearm Bill of Sale – Completed upon the sale of a firearm to record the transaction and show proof of ownership.

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Boat Bill of Sale – Records a boat sale between a private seller and a buyer. Used by the buyer for registering the vessel.

Download: PDF

Generic Bill of Sale – A sales receipt for individuals to use when selling their personal property in private transactions.

Download: PDF, Word (.docx), OpenDocument

Registration Resources

Motor Vehicle

• Application for Title or Registration (REG 343) – This application is required when registering a vehicle in California.
• Application for Duplicate or Transfer of Title (REG 227) – Used if the title of the vehicle is lost.
• DMV Offices – To locate the nearest office of the Department of Motor Vehicles.
• DMV Appointment Scheduling – Here, one can schedule a registration appointment online using the DMV website.
• DMV Fee Schedule – The registration costs for vehicles and vessels in the state of California.

Firearm

• Firearm Safety Certificate – Information on the firearm safety certification required to purchase a firearm.
• Application for License to Carry a Concealed Weapon – Required when applying for a concealed carry permit.
• California Law Enforcement Agencies – Where applications for concealed carry permits can be submitted.

Boat

• Application for Vessel Certificate of Number – The application needed in order to obtain boat registration.
• Statement of Facts (REG 256) – Used during the registration process if the vessel is valued at less than $2000.
• DMV Fee Schedule – The registration costs for vehicles and vessels in the state of California.
• DMV Offices – Where newly-purchased boats can be registered in California.