A Florida bill of sale is a document used to legally document the sale and transfer of ownership of any valuable item, such as a vehicle, boat, or firearm. The form serves as proof of the transaction and outlines key details, such as the identities of both parties, a description of the item sold, the purchase price, and the date of the sale. Both the buyer and the seller sign the document, and in some cases, notarization may be needed for added legal validity.
How to Register a Vehicle in Florida
Vehicles brought into Florida must be registered with the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) within ten days of establishing residency. Vehicle registration must be completed in person at a local FLHSMV office.
Bill of Sale – By Type (5)
Use a vehicle bill of sale form to buy or sell a motor vehicle
Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale
Use a boat bill of sale to transfer ownership of recreational water vehicles (such as motorboats, sailboats, yachts, and jet skis)
Florida Boat Bill of Sale
Use a trailer bill of sale to buy or sell a trailer (or any non-motorized vehicle pulled by another vehicle)
Florida Trailer Bill of Sale
Use a firearm bill of sale to transfer ownership of a gun (such as a handgun, rifle, or shotgun)
Florida Firearm Bill of Sale
Use a motorcycle bill of sale to transfer ownership of a motorcycle
Florida Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Requirements
A bill of sale is required for vehicle transactions in Florida and recommended for other major purchases. While the state provides a sample form, you can create your own as long as it includes the necessary information.
Language and Copy Requirements
- Language: Florida does not have specific language requirements for a bill of sale, but the FLHSMV advises including an English translation if the document is in another language to ensure efficient processing.
- Number of Copies: It’s advised to have at least two copies (in addition to the original, filed with the state) — one for the buyer and one for the seller — with additional copies for any other involved parties.
Vehicle Registration Forms
- Bill of Sale (Form HSMV 82050)
- Application for Certificate of Title With/Without Registration
- Vehicle Identification Affidavit and Odometer Declaration (Form HSMV 82042)
-
Notice of Sale (HSMV 82050)
- The seller must complete sections 1 & 3
- Proof of insurance
- Registration fees
- Driver’s license
- A motor vehicle power of attorney (Form HSMV 82053) – to grant an appointed agent the authority to handle vehicle-related matters on your behalf.
Boat Registration Forms
- Bill of Sale
- Certificate of Title
- Application for a Boat Title
- Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin
- Federal Marine Document or acceptable alternative
