Updated August 15, 2023
A California bill of sale is an official document to record the sale of personal property between a buyer and seller. Commonly used for vehicle transfers, a bill of sale is required to be signed by the seller. The buyer will be required to obtain a copy from a DMV office and use the bill of sale for accounting and registration purposes.
A purchase and sale may only be enforceable if there is a written contract (bill of sale) for items of $500 or more in value.[1]
Forms (3)
 Vehicle/Boat Bill of Sale (Form REG 135) – This document will prove the sale and transfer of ownership of a boat or vehicle.
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 Firearm Bill of Sale – This form will prove sale or trade-in complete agreement between all involved parties of a gun.
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 General Bill of Sale – This form will provide proof that a negotiated sale or trade of any item or items and that a sale or trade has been executed in complete agreement between all involved parties.
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Vehicle Registration Forms
- Bill of Sale (Form REG 135);
- Statement of Facts (Form REG 256);
- Signed Certificate of Title (if lost or damaged, use Application for Duplicate or Transfer Title);
- Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343);
- Valid California Driver’s License;
- Smog and Emissions Inspection from an accredited station;
- Release of Liability (Form REG 138), sent by the seller within five (5) days of sale to notify the state;
- Registration fees[2] (rates may vary);
- Proof of Insurance with minimum requirements:[3]
- $15,000 for injury/death of one person;
- $30,000 for injury/death of more than one person;
- $5,000 for property damage;
- Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney (Form REG 260), if an agent shall represent the vehicle owner in titling or registering matters.
Boat/Vessel Registration Forms
- Bill of Sale (Form REG 135);
- Statement of Facts (Form REG 256);
- Application for Vessel Certificate of Number (Form BOAT 101);
- Original Certificate of Title (if lost or damaged, use Application for Duplicate or Transfer Title)
- Valid California Driver’s License or Government-issued ID;
- Vessel registration fees[2] (rates may vary); and
- Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney (Form REG 260), if an agent shall represent the vessel owner in titling and registering matters.