An Idaho motor vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that acts as a sales receipt for the purchase of an automobile, vessel, motor home, or mobile home. By signing the document, the seller releases possession of their property to the buyer, thus indicating the transfer of ownership between the parties. The bill of sale details the transaction by reporting the sale date, purchase price, and the parties’ contact information. In addition, it includes a vehicle description and an odometer declaration. The form should be kept by the parties to protect them in the event of legal disputes. For example, if the new owner gets into an accident, the bill of sale proves that the seller is exempt from liability.

Idaho Vehicle Registration/Titling

Within thirty (30) days of the sale, the newly acquired vehicle must be registered with the DMV, and the certificate of title must be transferred to the new owner. Registration and titling are accomplished as follows:

1. Get the VIN inspected by an Idaho Transportation Department agent ($5 fee). After the inspection, the agent will complete a Vehicle Identification Number Inspection Certification.
2. Complete an Application for Certificate of Title.
3. Visit a local DMV office and submit the following:
   • Vehicle Identification Number Inspection Certification
   • Application for Certificate of Title
   • Proof of insurance
   • Bill of sale
   • Vehicle title
   • Driver’s license or ID card
4. After the vehicle’s title has been transferred between the parties, the new owner must pay the title/registration fee to complete the process. Fees vary depending on the county of registration and the type, age, and weight of the vehicle.