A Montana motor vehicle bill of sale acts as an official receipt for the purchase and sale of a vehicle in a private transaction between a buyer and seller. The buyer will be required to present this document when registering a purchased vehicle in their name. A bill of sale also provides the seller with proof that the vehicle is no longer their property should the need arise. Once completed, the form will provide the vehicle year, make, model, ID number, and odometer reading, as well as the full names, ID numbers, and contact information for both parties. The buyer and seller will need to sign the document in the presence of a notary public who must provide their signature and notary seal.

Montana Vehicle Registration/Titling

After purchasing a vehicle in a private transaction, the buyer is required to register the vehicle in their name and transfer the title within forty (40) days of the sale. If the vehicle is registered more than forty (40) days from the transaction date, the buyer will be charged a $10 late fee. To register their vehicle, the purchaser will need to perform the following:

1. Gather the necessary paperwork:
   • Notarized Vehicle Bill of Sale
   • Vehicle Title (with back portion filled out by seller)
   • Application for Certificate of Title
   • Proof of insurance
2. Submit all completed paperwork and proof of insurance to their County Treasurer Motor Vehicle Office.
3. Pay all associated fees and taxes.
4. Obtain a registration receipt to be kept in the vehicle at all times.