Updated September 15, 2023
A Michigan bill of sale allows for the ownership transfer of personal property, commonly a vehicle, from a seller to a buyer. Unless gifted, the exchange must be for cash or trade. The buyer and seller are required to sign the document after the transaction is complete.
The buyer must maintain a signed copy if they are to register the property post-sale (i.e. for vehicle transfers).
Forms (5)
 Vehicle Bill of Sale– This form will show proof of sale and purchase of a motor vehicle. It will show a change of ownership and is generally needed to register a vehicle.
Download: PDF, MS Word, OpenDocument |
 Boat Bill of Sale – This form would be used to provide legal proof of purchase and change of ownership of a vessel/boat.
Download: PDF, MS Word, OpenDocument |
 Firearm Bill of Sale – Used to prove sale and purchase, as well as a change of ownership of a firearm of any kind.
Download: PDF, MS Word, OpenDocument |
 General Bill of Sale – For personal property and can be used in any circumstance when transferring its ownership.
Download: PDF, MS Word, OpenDocument |
 Trailer/Watercraft/Snowmobile Bill of Sale – To be used to provide proof of sale and purchase of any Trailer, Watercraft or Snowmobile. This document will prove a change of ownership.
Download: PDF |
Vehicle Registration Forms
- Bill of Sale;
- Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form BVDR-108);
- Original Certificate of Title (if lost or damaged, see Replacing a Title);
- Valid Michigan Driver’s License;
- Completed Application for Michigan Vehicle Title (Form TR-11L), if the vehicle is transferred from out of state;
- Registration Fees[1];
- Proof of Insurance with the following minimum requirements[2]:
- Personal injury protection;
- Property protection;
- Residual bodily injury/property damage liability insurance;
- Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney, if a representative will act on behalf of the vehicle owner in any titling or registering matters.
Boat Registration Forms
- Bill of Sale;
- Certificate of Title; and
- Registration Fees[3].