A New Mexico motor vehicle bill of sale is a document signed by the buyer and seller of a vehicle that acts as proof of purchase. The form must include the vehicle year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN), as well as the contact information of the buyer and seller. Once the document has been signed by both parties, the seller releases ownership of the vehicle to the buyer, thus completing the transaction. If the vehicle’s Certificate of Title doesn’t have an assignment for the seller to sign over to the buyer, the seller will need to provide a signed bill of sale to prove that ownership was transferred.

New Mexico Vehicle Registration/Titling

Once an individual has purchased a used vehicle in New Mexico, they will need to register and title it in their name. Both titling and registration can be completed by bringing the following documentation to the buyer’s local Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Field Office:

• Certificate of Title – With assignment portion filled out
• Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale -Required if the Certificate of Title is missing the assignment portion
• Odometer Statement (on Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale, or via an Odometer Disclosure Statement)
• Application for Vehicle Title and Registration
• Proof of insurance (auto insurance card, policy, or letter from insurance company)
• Proof of identity (driver’s license, Social Security card, W2 Form, paystub, etc.)
• Two (2) proofs of residency (utility bill, rental/purchase agreement, medical assistance card, etc.)
• Emission Certificate of Inspection – Required for Bernalillo County residents

The buyer will be required to pay registration fees plus applicable taxes to the MVD office clerk to complete the registration and titling process.