An Arizona motor vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that records motor vehicle ownership. It is used when a vehicle seller transfers ownership to the buyer for a price. Having a bill of sale helps both the seller and buyer by providing proof of the transaction, protecting them in case of disputes. It also ensures there is a written record of the agreed-upon terms of the sale.
Alternatively, the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) provides ADOT Form 48-2004 to transfer the title between two private parties. The seller must sign the bill of sale document in the presence of a notary public or an agent from the MVD.
Registering a Motor Vehicle
If you reside in Arizona, register your vehicle at an MVD office within 15 days of purchase. Depending on the type of car, this registration is valid for one, two, or five years. If a vehicle is already registered in another state and you plan to use it in Arizona, you must register it as soon as you establish residency there.
If you have already registered in this state, you can renew your registration online.
Gather Required Documents
The following list shows the documents the DMV Office requires to register your vehicle in Arizona.
- Proof of Identification.
- Bill of Sale: Records the ownership transfer (state form is ADOT Form 48-2004).
- Title and Registration Application (Form 96-0236).
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Insurance Documents: The state has minimum vehicle insurance requirements: [1]
- $25,000 for bodily injury liability (for one person).
- $50,000 for bodily injury liability (for two or more persons).
- $15,000 for property damage.
- Sold Notice (Form 46-8502): This form must be sent to the state of Arizona no more than ten days after a sale.
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form MVT 5-5): Attach it to the bill of sale if the vehicle is newer than 2011, under 16,000 pounds, and self-propelled.
- Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney: If someone else will be representing you at the DMV.
- Emissions Test (Performed at an Approved Testing Location): To have, in addition to these above documents, if you are located in the cities of Phoenix or Tucson.
Submit Your Documents
When registering a vehicle in Arizona, you can submit your documents to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). There are several ways to do this:
- In Person: Visit an MVD office or an authorized third-party provider. You’ll need to bring the necessary documents.
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By Mail: You can mail your completed documents and forms to the MVD office:
Mail Drop 555M, Title Production Unit, Motor Vehicle DivisionPO Box 2100,
Phoenix AZ 85001-2100. - Online (for Renewals): If you’re renewing your registration, you can submit your documents through the ADOT website, but note that first-time registrations or changes in ownership typically require an in-person visit or mail submission.
Pay Registration Fees
When registering a vehicle in Arizona, you’ll need to pay certain fees, which can vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle and the length of the registration period. [2]
You can pay your registration fees at any MVD office or authorized third-party provider. Acceptable payment methods include cash, checks, debit cards, and major credit cards. If you are registering by mail, you can include a check or money order payable to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division. Make sure your payment is enclosed with all necessary documents.
Arizona Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Sample
Download an Arizona motor vehicle bill of sale template below in PDF or Word format.
