Minnesota motorcycle — quick answer
In Minnesota, a motorcycle bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. Titling and registration are handled by the Minnesota DVS.
Is a motorcycle bill of sale required in Minnesota?
Recommended. Ownership transfers on the title; a bill of sale is a useful sale record.
Seller completes the title assignment; the buyer titles and registers through DVS or a deputy registrar.
Does a Minnesota motorcycle bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. A standard private transfer does not require notarization (lien releases can be an exception).
What to include on a Minnesota motorcycle bill of sale
- 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 transfer a motorcycle in Minnesota
- 1Complete the bill of sale and title assignment.
Record the buyer, seller, price, odometer, and date. Both parties sign and date.
- 2Hand over the signed title.
Seller completes the title assignment; the buyer titles and registers through DVS or a deputy registrar.
- 3Register with the Minnesota DVS.
The buyer titles and registers the motorcycle. Confirm current fees on the official page.
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.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the Minnesota DVS before you sign. Not legal advice.
Minnesota Motorcycle Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a motorcycle bill of sale required in Minnesota?
A bill of sale is recommended in Minnesota. Ownership transfers on the title; a bill of sale is a useful sale record.
Does a Minnesota motorcycle bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. A standard private transfer does not require notarization (lien releases can be an exception).
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.
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.