Alaska — quick answer
In Alaska, a bill of sale is recommended for a private vehicle sale and notarization is situational. No witnesses are required. The relevant state form is Form 812. Ownership is transferred through the Alaska DMV via the assigned title.
Alaska's rules can vary by county or transaction. We've based this on official sources, but please confirm the exact requirement with the Alaska DMV before you sign.
Is a bill of sale required in Alaska?
Recommended. A bill of sale documents the sale, but the Alaska DMV notes a bill of sale alone cannot transfer ownership — the title must be signed over.
Seller signs the title over to the buyer; the buyer files Form 812 to title and register.
Does a Alaska bill of sale need to be notarized?
Situational (situational). The Alaska DMV requires notarization for a power of attorney; confirm whether your specific title assignment block requires it before signing.
Witness requirements
No. Alaska does not require witnesses for a standard private bill of sale.
Odometer disclosure
Federal law requires a written odometer disclosure when title is transferred for vehicles less than 20 years old. As of 2026 that means model year 2011 and newer; model year 2010 and older are generally exempt. Record the exact mileage — never round it. See the NHTSA rule.
How to transfer a vehicle title in Alaska
- 1Complete the bill of sale and title assignment.
Fill in the buyer, seller, price, odometer, and date. Both parties sign and date the document.
- 2Hand over the signed title.
Seller signs the title over to the buyer; the buyer files Form 812 to title and register.
- 3Register with the Alaska DMV.
The buyer titles and registers the vehicle, bringing Application for Title & Registration (Form 812). Confirm the current fees and documents on the official Alaska DMV page.
Official Alaska sources
- Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — buying & selling a vehicle
- NHTSA — federal odometer disclosure rule
We link to primary government sources and review this page regularly, but requirements change. This is general information, not legal advice.
Alaska bill of sale by type
Get requirements and a free template tailored to Alaska for each item type — the generator applies the Alaska notary and witness rules automatically:
Alaska bill of sale — FAQ
Is a bill of sale required in Alaska?
In Alaska, a separate bill of sale is recommended. A bill of sale documents the sale, but the Alaska DMV notes a bill of sale alone cannot transfer ownership — the title must be signed over.
Does a Alaska bill of sale need to be notarized?
Sometimes. The Alaska DMV requires notarization for a power of attorney; confirm whether your specific title assignment block requires it before signing.
Do I need a witness for a bill of sale in Alaska?
No. Alaska does not require witnesses for a standard private bill of sale.
How do I transfer a vehicle title in Alaska?
Seller signs the title over to the buyer; the buyer files Form 812 to title and register. Titling and registration in Alaska are handled by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
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.