A Wisconsin motor vehicle bill of sale is not mandatory in the state when you buy an automobile. However, having this form acts as a receipt for the transaction. You can use it as proof in a disagreement over the sale or a later challenge to the purchase.
A bill of sale may also be helpful for taxation purposes to prove the price paid. Having a record is a good idea for informational purposes or to protect yourself if any issues arise.
Vehicle Registration
Wisconsin requires vehicle registration to identify the automobile’s ownership (Wisconsin Statutes Section 341.03). A vehicle bill of sale in Wisconsin is not required for registration, but it is handy if controversy arises over ownership.
Where to Register Your Vehicle
You must register your vehicle with the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles. There are several ways to do this:
- Online
- By mail
- In-person
Documents Required by the DMV Office
The documentation you will need to apply for your registration includes the following:
- Bill of Sale
- Certificate of Title (If there are any alterations on the title, complete the Statement of Intent)
- The seller and buyer must sign the back of the title, and the odometer disclosure must be filled out (unless exempt).
- A lien release if there is a lien holder.
- Title & License Plate Application (Form MV-1) (for mail or in-person processing)
- Driver’s license or photo ID
- Registration fees and tax payments
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Proof of insurance with minimum requirements
- $25,000 for bodily injuries per person
- $50,000 for bodily injuries per accident
- $10,000 for property damage
When applying online or by mail, you must pay a fee and need your payment information. For in-person registration, bring a credit card or check.
If you can’t complete the registration process because you’ll be out of the country or otherwise unavailable, fill out a motor vehicle power of attorney form to let someone else do it.
Free Wisconsin Vehicle Bill of Sale Sample
When buying or selling a vehicle, you should look for a free and simple form to document the purchase. Legal Templates offers a PDF or Word version of a Wisconsin vehicle bill of sale.
