In short
A motorcycle bill of sale records the sale of a motorcycle, including the make, model, engine size, 17-character VIN, odometer, price, and both parties’ signatures.
What is a motorcycle bill of sale?
A motorcycle bill of sale documents the private sale of a motorcycle or scooter. Because motorcycles are titled and registered like cars in most states, the document captures the same core details plus the engine size.
It supports the title transfer at the DMV and gives both the buyer and seller a clear record of the agreed price, the mileage, and the date the motorcycle changed hands.
When do you need one?
Use a motorcycle bill of sale in situations like these:
- Selling or buying a used motorcycle, scooter, or moped privately.
- Registering a motorcycle that requires proof of purchase price.
- Selling a bike "as-is" between two private parties.
What information goes on a motorcycle bill of sale?
A complete motorcycle bill of sale should include all of the following. Our generator collects each one and flags anything you miss:
- Buyer and seller names and addresses
- Year, make, model, and engine size (cc)
- 17-character VIN
- Odometer reading
- Sale price and date
- Both signatures
How to write a motorcycle bill of sale
- 1 Open the motorcycle bill of sale generator
Start the free generator with the Motorcycle Bill of Sale type already selected and choose the state where the sale takes place.
- 2 Enter the seller, buyer, and item details
Add full legal names and addresses, then describe the motorcycle — the live preview builds the document as you type.
- 3 Add the price and terms
Record the agreed price (or mark it as a gift), the payment method, and whether the sale is "as-is."
- 4 Check, sign, and download
Reach 100% on the completeness score, copy or download the document for free, then follow the signing checklist for your state.
Legal considerations
- Motorcycle VINs are 17 characters — copy from the steering neck or title, not a guess.
- Federal odometer disclosure applies to motorcycles less than 20 years old.
- Notary states (LA, OH, PA, NC, KY) apply to motorcycles too.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Read our disclaimer.
State-specific requirements
Vehicle-type documents are tied to state title law. The biggest difference between states is whether the transfer must be notarized. These states require a notarized title transfer for a private sale:
Several more states require notarization only in specific tax situations. Pick your state for the exact rule, the official form, and what to bring to the DMV:
Motorcycle Bill of Sale — FAQ
Does a motorcycle bill of sale need a VIN?
Yes. The 17-character VIN uniquely identifies the motorcycle and is required to register it. Our tool checks that the VIN is the correct length.
Is a motorcycle bill of sale the same as a title?
No. The title proves and transfers ownership; the bill of sale documents the sale and price. You typically need both to register the motorcycle.
Do I need a bill of sale to register a motorcycle?
Many states require it (or use it to set sales tax). Check your state page for the exact requirement and whether notarization applies.
Is a bill of sale proof of ownership?
Generally no. For titled property like a car or boat, the title is what proves ownership. A bill of sale proves that a sale happened and records the price, date, and terms — it supports the title transfer but does not replace it. For untitled property (furniture, equipment, electronics), the signed bill of sale is usually the main proof of ownership.
Can a bill of sale be handwritten?
Yes. A handwritten bill of sale is legal as long as it includes the required details — the parties, a description of the item, the price, the date, and both signatures. Using a structured template simply makes sure nothing important is left out.