Montana trailer — quick answer
In Montana, a trailer bill of sale is situational and notarization of the title transfer is situational. The state form used for titled vehicles is MV24. Titling and registration are handled by the Montana MVD.
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Montana?
Situational. A Montana bill of sale cannot transfer ownership by itself; when one is used as a supporting document it must be notarized.
Owners sign the title to transfer; the buyer titles through the county Treasurer.
Does a Montana trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Situational (situational). When a bill of sale is used, the seller signature must be notarized. Ownership itself transfers by signing the title.
What to include on a Montana trailer bill of sale
- Buyer and seller names and addresses
- Year, make, and trailer type
- VIN or serial number
- Length, number of axles, and empty weight
- Price, date, and signatures
How to transfer a trailer in Montana
- 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.
Owners sign the title to transfer; the buyer titles through the county Treasurer.
- 3Register with the Montana MVD.
The buyer titles and registers the trailer, bringing Bill of Sale. Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the Montana MVD before you sign. Not legal advice.
Montana Trailer Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Montana?
A bill of sale is situational in Montana. A Montana bill of sale cannot transfer ownership by itself; when one is used as a supporting document it must be notarized.
Does a Montana trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Sometimes. When a bill of sale is used, the seller signature must be notarized. Ownership itself transfers by signing the title.
Do I need to title a trailer?
It depends on the trailer’s weight and your state. Heavier trailers usually require a title and registration; many small utility trailers only need registration. Check your state page.
What if my trailer has no VIN?
Homemade or older trailers may need a state inspection to be assigned a VIN before they can be titled. The bill of sale still documents the sale in the meantime.
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.