A California Bill of Sale records the official sale of any personal item, such as a vehicle, boat/vessel, or firearm. A completed and signed bill of sale is legal proof that ownership of the documented item has been transferred to the buyer and that the seller has been paid the agreed-upon amount.
Bill of Sale – By Type (5)
Vehicle Registration Forms
- Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343)
- Bill of Sale (Form REG 135)
- California driver’s license
- Proof of vehicle insurance
- Registration fees
- Signed certificate of title
- Statement of Facts (Form REG 256) – required to identify certain aspects and the vehicle’s condition.
- Smog and emissions inspection
If the vehicle is less than ten years old, you must also provide a record of the odometer mileage.
Boat Registration Forms
- Bill of sale
- Application for Vessel Certificate of Number Form
- Hull Identification Number
- California Certificate of Ownership or an Out-of-State Title
- Statement of Facts Form
Firearm Registration Forms
In California, private-party sales are subject to the Dealer’s Record of Sale (DROS) [1] process and must be completed through a licensed California dealer. This process includes providing proof that the buyer is over 21 years of age and undergoing a 10-day waiting period.
In addition to this, you will need the following documents:
- Bill of Sale
- Handgun Safety Certificate
- California Driver’s License or Identification Card for both buyer and seller
- Firearm details, such as make, model, and serial number
- Proof of residency, such as a rental agreement or utility bill
Sample
