If you’re considering selling or buying a motorcycle in Alabama, you will need a motorcycle bill of sale to transfer ownership from the seller to the buyer. This legal document serves as a receipt to show proof of purchase and is required to change the motorcycle’s title over to the new owner’s name in the absence of an existing Alabama title or for out-of-state titles.
A Motorcycle Bill of Sale for Alabama includes important information regarding the seller and the buyer, the terms of the transaction, and a description of the motorcycle itself.
What Is an Alabama Motorcycle Bill of Sale?
All motor vehicles routinely driven in Alabama under 35 years old, including motorcycles, must be registered with the state and hold an Alabama certificate of title. To be titled in the state, the motorcycle must be a minimum of 50CC’s and meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
An Alabama Motorcycle Bill of Sale is a legal form that serves the following purposes:
- To provide a receipt of the sales transaction
- To show that ownership of the motorcycle has legally changed hands
- To guard against theft and fraud
- To register a motorcycle with the state of Alabama
Is a Motorcycle Bill of Sale Form Required in Alabama?
The Alabama Department of Revenue requires a bill of sale when an existing Alabama state title cannot be signed over from the seller to the buyer. You will need to complete a title application before you can register your motorcycle.
You have 20 calendar days to register your motorcycle from the date of sale to comply with Alabama laws and avoid penalties.
Do You Need a Bill of Sale to Register a Motorcycle in Alabama?
Although a Motorcycle Bill of Sale isn’t required to register your motorcycle in Alabama as long as the bike has an existing Alabama title, it does help to prove ownership in the event that there are questions. It also serves as a way to protect both the seller and the buyer by legitimizing the sale of the motorcycle.
Motorcycles in Alabama must be registered or renewed each year and in the owner’s county of residence. Check your county’s registration requirements to see if can renew online.
How Do I Transfer Ownership of a Motorcycle in Alabama?
Following the sale of a motorcycle in Alabama, title transfer works the same way as any other vehicle title transfer in the state. Follow these steps to transfer an Alabama motorcycle title to your name.
Step 1: Sell or Purchase a Motorcycle
Meet with the potential buyer or seller and negotiate the terms of the sale. Only after payment has been exchanged should the seller sign over the motorcycle’s existing title to the buyer and complete a bill of sale.
Motorcycles registered in Alabama must have an Alabama title, so if you are the buyer, you must apply for a new title in your name to make the transaction legal.
Step 2: Determine Your Local Title Transfer Location
Where you apply for an Alabama certificate of title depends on the county where you live. Vehicle licensing offices, licensed Alabama motor vehicle dealers, and financial institutions like Alabama banks and credit unions can transfer Alabama motorcycle titles.
Step 3: Complete an Application for a New Title
As the buyer, you must apply for a title in your name before registering your new motorcycle with the state. In most cases, you will receive your new title 10-15 days after properly submitting the application.
Step 4: Present the Necessary Paperwork for Registration
To transfer the title of your new motorcycle and register it with the state, you will need to submit the following paperwork:
- Completed title application
- Signed-over certificate of title and/or bill of sale
- Completed Alabama odometer disclosure form
- Valid driver’s license
- Motorcycle title application fee
- Proof of insurance (policy number and NAIC number)
Motorcycle Title Transfer With a Bill of Sale Only
There is an option to use only a motorcycle bill of sale without a title. If the original title with the registered owner’s release signature is unavailable, then purchasing a motorcycle in Alabama with only a bill of sale can be accomplished with both parties’ signatures.
Does an Alabama Motorcycle Bill of Sale Need to be Notarized?
Alabama does not require a motorcycle bill of sale to be notarized or witnessed to be valid. However, having a notary public witness both parties’ signatures can add a layer of protection if questions of ownership come up later.
Buying and Selling a Motorcycle in Alabama
Step 1: Determine a Fair Market Value for Your Bike
Use online resources to compare listed prices for similar bikes in your area. This will help you set an asking price for your motorcycle.
Step 2: Advertise
Post your motorcycle to online sales sites and your social media accounts to garner interest. Park it in a safe but visible location to attract buyers.
Step 3: Meet with the Potential Buyer
Once a buyer has expressed interest, negotiate the terms of the sale, including the price. Never exchange property until both parties have signed an Alabama motorcycle bill of sale and payment has changed hands.
How to Write a Motorcycle Bill of Sale in Alabama (What to Include)
1. Choose a Motorcycle Bill of Sale Template
We offer a printable motorcycle bill of sale that is free for your use.
2. Record the Sale Price of the Motorcycle
You may consider checking other local motorcycle listings in your area to know what to charge. You can also have your motorcycle appraised by a professional appraiser who will tell you the value of your bike. This may be worth the effort if you have any customizations or upgrades that would increase the sale price significantly.
3. Fill in the Buyer and Seller Information
This section includes first and last names, as well as addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses for each. You may also want to obtain copies of both party’s photo IDs to verify identity.
4. Fill in the Motorcycle Information
- Make
- Model
- Year
- Color
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Current odometer reading
- Description and details of the motorcycle
- Purchase price
5. Date and Sign the Bill of Sale
Include the seller and buyer’s printed names, signatures, and the date.
Alabama Motorcycle Bill of Sale Template
Make the process easier for yourself, and use our free form to create your own bill of sale. It’s available in Word and PDF format along with motorcycle bill of sale template instructions and can be downloaded and printed for your convenience.
