Michigan Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Form

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A Michigan motor vehicle bill of sale is used to record the change of ownership when buying and selling a vehicle. Although it’s not mandatory for vehicle registration or titling, a bill of sale acts as proof of purchase for taxation purposes and can also function as an odometer disclosure statement.

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Michigan Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Form

Last updated May 24th, 2025

A Michigan motor vehicle bill of sale is used to record the change of ownership when buying and selling a vehicle. Although it’s not mandatory for vehicle registration or titling, a bill of sale acts as proof of purchase for taxation purposes and can also function as an odometer disclosure statement.

Michigan Vehicle Registration (3 Steps)

The buyer has 15 days to register their vehicle at a local Secretary of State office.[1] Ideally, the seller will accompany the buyer when the registration occurs.

1. Prepare for Registration

The buyer must gather the following[2]:

  • Original Title – If the seller cannot attend the vehicle’s registration, they must fill out and sign their part of the title beforehand.
  • Proof of Insurance – A valid no-fault insurance policy is needed.
  • Odometer Statement (if applicable) – Required if there isn’t room on the title for an odometer reading.
  • Identification – New owners must have a valid ID.

2. Obtain Statement from Loan Provider (if applicable)

A lien termination statement or signed title from the lienholder is needed if the vehicle previously had a loan against it. If there’s an active loan, a letter of authorization from the lienholder is required instead.[3]

3. Visit Secretary of State Office

The registration paperwork must be filed in person at a local Secretary of State office (appointments may be scheduled in advance). While at the office, the following will occur:

  1. The seller will complete their portion of the vehicle title (if not done already).
  2. The buyer will sign the title. If there will be multiple owners, each individual must be present to sign.
  3. The buyer will supply the titling and registration fees (use fee calculator).

A set of license plates and registration tabs will be issued once the vehicle is registered.

Vehicle Bill of Sale (Preview)

Sources

  1. § 257.234(3)
  2. Michigan Department of State – Title Transfer and Vehicle Registration
  3. Michigan Department of State – Title Transfer and Vehicle Registration