An Illinois motor vehicle bill of sale is a legal document proving that you bought or sold a car or other vehicle. You may need a bill of sale before you can complete other forms, but it also serves as a receipt for a purchase.
While a vehicle bill of sale is not required to register a vehicle through the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State, the document may be useful later if there is a dispute.
If the vehicle is newer than 2011, under 16,000 pounds, and self-propelled, you must complete an Odometer Disclosure Statement for Title Transfers (Form VSD 333.4) upon transferring the title.
The seller must also complete a Seller’s Report of Sale (Form VSD-703) and submit it to the Secretary of State’s Vehicle Services Division immediately after selling the vehicle.
Vehicle Registration
All vehicles must be registered with the Illinois Secretary of State within 20 days of purchase. You should complete the registration process if you purchased the vehicle privately.
Registrations must be renewed annually and can be completed online on the Vehicle Services page.
Where to Register Your Vehicle
You can register your vehicle in person at a Secretary of State (SOS) office or submit the necessary documents and fees by email. A list of all facilities can be accessed here.
Documents Required by the DMV Office
- Bill of Sale
- Odometer Disclosure Statement for Title Transfers (Form VSD 333.4)
- Application for Vehicle Transaction (Form VSD 190) submitted to a local SOS office within 7 days if filled online
- Seller’s Report of Sale (Form VSD-703)
- Certification of Title, containing the previous owner’s signature
- Used tax (Form RUT-50), obtained at SOS office; see the guide
- Illinois Driver’s License
- Registration Fees
- Proof of Car Insurance
If someone else buys the vehicle on the owner’s behalf, you also need a vehicle power of attorney form.
Illinois Vehicle Bill of Sale Sample
Below you can find an Illinois vehicle bill of sale template that you can download in PDF or Word format:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bill of sale required for all vehicle sales in Illinois?
No, a bill of sale is not required for all vehicle sales in Illinois. However, it is recommended as it provides proof of the transaction and can protect both the buyer and the seller.
What information do I need to include in a bill of sale for a vehicle in Illinois?
The information that should be included in a bill of sale for a vehicle in Illinois includes the names and addresses of both the buyer and the seller, a description of the vehicle being sold, the sale price, the date of the sale, and the signatures of both parties. Using a template ensures all the required information is included; you have to fill in the blanks.
Do I need to have my vehicle bill of sale notarized in Illinois?
No, having a vehicle bill of sale notarized in Illinois is not required. However, notarizing it can provide extra legal protection for both the buyer and the seller.
How do I register my vehicle after completing a bill of sale in Illinois?
To register your vehicle after completing a bill of sale in Illinois, you must bring the bill of sale, proof of insurance, and the previous title (if applicable) to your local Secretary of State office. You will also need to pay the required fees and taxes.