California atv — quick answer
In California, a ATV bill of sale is not required and notarization of the title transfer is not required. The state form used for titled vehicles is REG 135. Titling and registration are handled by the California DMV.
Is a ATV bill of sale required in California?
Not required. A bill of sale is optional. The DMV's REG 135 can stand in for the owner's release-of-ownership signature on the title.
Seller signs the title over to the buyer; the buyer submits the title (or REG 135) and applies for transfer within 10 days.
Does a California ATV bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. California's registration manual states a bill of sale is not required to be notarized or witnessed.
What to include on a California ATV bill of sale
- Buyer and seller names and addresses
- Year, make, model, and type
- VIN or frame serial number
- Engine size and hours/mileage
- Price, date, and signatures
How to transfer a ATV in California
- 1Complete the bill of sale and title assignment.
Record the buyer, seller, price, and date. Both parties sign and date.
- 2Hand over the signed title.
Seller signs the title over to the buyer; the buyer submits the title (or REG 135) and applies for transfer within 10 days.
- 3File a notice of sale / release of liability.
The seller files Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (file within 5 days) to remove liability.
- 4Register with the California DMV.
The buyer titles and registers the ATV, bringing Bill of Sale. Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the California DMV before you sign. Not legal advice.
California ATV Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a ATV bill of sale required in California?
A bill of sale is not required in California. A bill of sale is optional. The DMV's REG 135 can stand in for the owner's release-of-ownership signature on the title.
Does a California ATV bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. California's registration manual states a bill of sale is not required to be notarized or witnessed.
Do ATVs have a VIN?
Most modern ATVs and UTVs have a 17-character VIN; older or imported machines may use a frame serial number. Record whichever is stamped on the vehicle.
Do I need to register an ATV?
Most states require off-highway vehicles to be registered or stickered for use on trails or public land. The rules vary — check your state page.
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.