What Is a Vermont Vehicle Bill of Sale?
A Vermont vehicle bill of sale, also known as a Form VT-005, documents the details of a car purchase and provides proof of a legitimate sale to the state and future purchasers. This form includes details identifying the vehicle, including its make, model, and year. Other information you must include in this document to create a comprehensive record includes:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Date of the sale
- Purchase price
- Odometer reading
- Buyer’s name, address, and signature
- Seller’s name, address, and signature
Is a Vehicle Bill of Sale Required in Vermont?
Yes, a vehicle bill of sale is required in Vermont in certain situations. It serves as proof of ownership and helps you properly transfer ownership with the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Per Vermont’s Title Guide, here are the specific scenarios where you’ll need this document:
- Selling a 2009 or older Vermont-registered vehicle
- Buying or transferring a vehicle where the title is unavailable or held by a lienholder
- Buying a new vehicle (for tax calculation)
- Documenting the chain of ownership for any used vehicle
- Buying a vehicle with no title and no NMVTIS record
- Buying a used, previously untitled vehicle that must be titled in Vermont
If you’re also registering the vehicle in Vermont, you’ll need to pair a vehicle bill of sale with VD-119 (Registration Application).
End of the Vermont Loophole
Until mid-2023, the “Vermont Loophole” allowed non-residents to register their vehicles using a bill of sale in Vermont and use the registration in their home states. However, Vermont now only allows residents to register a vehicle. Part-time residents may register their vehicles in Vermont if they meet strict requirements.
Does a Bill of Sale for a Car in Vermont Need to Be Notarized?
While you don’t need to seek notary acknowledgement for a Vermont car bill of sale, it can add extra authenticity to the document. It legitimizes the buyers’ and sellers’ signatures and can reduce questions about true ownership.
Consider seeking notarization for your bill of sale if the vehicle is more than 15 years old and lacks a title. You’ll also need to accompany it with the Affidavit of Non-Titled Vehicle (Form VT-025).
Vermont Vehicle Bill of Sale Sample
View our example of a Vermont vehicle bill of sale to get an idea of what elements to include. Then, create your own using our guided questionnaire and download copies in PDF or Word format for all involved parties.
