The Iowa DMV bill of sale form offers proof through documentation that an exchange of personal property (in this case, a motor vehicle) occurred between two parties. Not to be confused with a title transfer, a bill of sale doesn’t legally transfer ownership, but it can be considered an intrinsic addition to your vehicle’s records. Specific details concerning the sale are noted on the form such as the names of the buyer and seller, VIN, and the price of the vehicle. Once the form has been completed, it must be signed by the seller in the presence of a notary public who will then validate the document. It is recommended that both the seller and buyer retain a copy of the agreement.

How to Register a Vehicle

To register the vehicle that you recently purchased from a private party, visit a County Treasurers Office located within your vicinity. Bring the requested items below:

• A bill of sale (although not legally necessary, it can add additional proof confirming the transfer of ownership).
• The vehicle title signed by both the buyer and seller producing a legitimate transfer of possession.
• A state of Iowa driver’s license.
• Individuals registering must submit an Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration for a Vehicle (Form 411007).
• If the seller of the vehicle had no room to record an odometer reading on the title, they must supply the buyer with an Odometer Disclosure Statement, which shall then be presented to an agent upon titling/registration – in accordance with statute 761—400.52(321)
• If there is an active loan on the vehicle, the lender must be contacted to sign off and provide any necessary paperwork required for the registration process.
• A Damage Disclosure Statement (only applicable if the damage exceeds 50% of the fair market value of the motor vehicle before it became damaged).
• Sufficient funds to satisfy any registration processing fees.

How to Write

Step 1 – Download in Adobe PDF.

Step 2 – Sale Information – Seller and buyer must provide the following imperative information:

• Seller’s Name
• Make of the vehicle
• Year of the vehicle
• VIN Number
• Buyer’s Name
• Dollar Amount
• Date of Sale

Step 3 – Signature and Notarization – The seller must sign the agreement in the presence of a notary public. The notary will then provide the following:

• Date (day, month, year)
• Signature
• State