A Pennsylvania motor vehicle bill of sale is a legally recognized document that acts as a record of the sale of a vehicle between a seller and buyer. It should include information regarding the vehicle, the seller, the buyer, and the sale transaction details.
Proof of ownership is required to register a vehicle in Pennsylvania.
If the vehicle is under a lien, the lending financial institution will keep the title until you have paid the loan in full. Note the seller must sign, and handprint their name on the proof of ownership document, and the seller’s signature is required to be notarized or verified on the Pennsylvania title.
Registering a Motor Vehicle
Pennsylvania state law requires all motor vehicles to be registered. When buying directly from a licensed dealership, ask who will be responsible for the initial titling and registration. Most dealerships will take care of this for you.
If your purchase is through a private transaction, you are responsible for registering the vehicle.
Gather Required Documents
You will need the following documents to register your vehicle for the first time:
- Proof of Ownership:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for out-of-state vehicles
- A valid driver’s license or ID identification
-
Proof of insurance with minimum requirements
- $15,000 for bodily injuries per person
- $30,000 for bodily injuries per accident
- $5,000 for property damage
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- Odometer Disclosure Statement: You must also complete an Odometer Disclosure Statement and include it with the bill of sale.
- Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney Form: in case you want delegate DMV-related transactions to someone else.
- Form MV-13ST: If the vehicle is being given as a gift, the “Affidavit of Gift” must be attached to the title application.
- A Pennsylvania Vehicle Inspection Sticker: For all used cars (must obtain within 10 days of vehicle purchase).
Submit Your Documents
All first-time registrations must occur in person at a Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) location. You can complete registration renewals online.
Pay Registration Fees
To apply, you must pay the fees and taxes as a part of the registration process.
Free Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Sample
See our free, printable Pennsylvania Vehicle Bill of Sale below. It’s available in both PDF and Word formats.
