A Texas bill of sale is a form that records the sale of personal property between buyer and seller. It should be executed by the parties upon the delivery of payment, and it must include their signatures to be effective. Drafting a bill of sale is common when buying motor vehicles to identify the vehicle’s make, model, and identification number (VIN), and to prove that ownership has been transferred to the buyer. When purchasing a boat, the buyer must obtain a bill of sale from the seller and submit it, along with the required registration documents, to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (see registration resources).

Types (4)

Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale – A form that authenticates the sale and purchase of a motor vehicle between two (2) individuals.
 
 
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Firearm Bill of Sale – Records a firearm transaction between a private seller and the individual buying the firearm(s).

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Boat Bill of Sale – A detailed receipt for a boat that was privately purchased. The completed form will be required when the buyer applies for titling and registration.

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Generic Bill of Sale – A general bill of sale that can be used for the sale of any item.

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Registration Resources

Motor Vehicle

• Texas Department of Motor Vehicles – The homepage for all motor vehicle services offered in Texas.
• Registration Information – Instructions for vehicle registration by new Texas residents.
• Application for Texas Title and/or Registration – Completed by the seller and given to the vehicle’s new owner for registration purposes (must be filed within thirty (30) days of the sale).
• County Tax Office – The offices that handle the majority of motor vehicle services, such as registration and title transfers.
• Registration Fees – A list of the State and county registration fees imposed in Texas.
• Registration Renewal – An online portal through which drivers can renew their vehicle registration.

Firearm

• Department of Public Safety – This government agency issues weapons licenses in Texas.
• Online Handgun Licensing – An online portal used to apply for a new handgun license or renew an existing license.
• Handgun License Application – This paper application must be used when applying for a handgun license by mail or in-person.

Boat

• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) – The address and operating hours of each TPWD office.
• Vessel/Boat Application – Used by the buyer to register their watercraft (must be signed by the buyer and seller).
• Affidavit of Fact – Must be completed if registering a boat that has never been registered or titled in Texas.
• Verification of Vessel or Outboard Motor Serial Number – Required when registering a boat that hasn’t been titled or registered in the State.
• Registration and Titling Fees – A chart of the boat registration and titling fees.
• Sales Tax – A calculator used to determine the amount of tax due after purchasing a boat.