What Is a Kentucky Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A Kentucky motor vehicle bill of sale is a document that proves a vehicle sale has occurred. A buyer can present it during registration to show they’re the new owner, while the seller keeps it to show they’re no longer responsible for the vehicle. Some key elements to include in your KY vehicle bill of sale include the following:
- Buyers’ and sellers’ names and signatures
- Buyers’ and sellers’ addresses
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Make, model, year, and color
- Purchase price
- Date of the sale
- Current odometer reading
- Warranties (if any)
Is a Vehicle Bill of Sale Required in Kentucky?
Most car sales in Kentucky do not require a vehicle bill of sale. This document typically serves as a supporting document for other mandatory forms during the titling process, like the signed-over back of the title and Form TC96-182 (Application for Title/Registration). Buyers have 15 days to have ownership transferred to them after a purchase, and a vehicle bill of sale can aid the process.
Even though a KY vehicle bill of sale is optional in most cases, it’s still an important form. It minimizes disputes over ownership and helps the county clerk’s office calculate motor vehicle usage tax for the buyer to pay. It can also help buyers comply with KY Rev Stat § 186.020, which requires the bill of sale or assigned title to be kept in the vehicle during the 15-day registration window for out-of-state sales.
Does a Bill of Sale for a Car in Kentucky Need to Be Notarized?
A Kentucky car bill of sale does not need to be notarized. Notary acknowledgment is only required for the signed-over back of the title and, if the title predates the year 2000 or it’s for an out-of-state vehicle sale, Form TC96-182. However, getting your bill of sale notarized for any sale is recommended. Notarization improves the document’s authenticity and confirms the transaction’s details.
Kentucky Vehicle Bill of Sale Sample
View a motor vehicle bill of sale for Kentucky to get an idea of its key elements. Then, complete your own using our guided form and download the document as a PDF or Word file.
