Vehicle Bill of Sale Template – Florida

Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale FAQ

What is a Vehicle Bill of Sale?

A Vehicle Bill of Sale is a legal document that records the sale and transfer of a vehicle from the seller to the buyer.
It serves as an official receipt confirming the change of ownership and outlining the agreed-upon terms of the transaction — even if payment isn’t made immediately.
While there’s no national standard form, using a complete and accurate Vehicle Bill of Sale template helps protect both parties and simplifies title transfer or insurance documentation with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

When to use a Vehicle Bill of Sale?

In Florida, a Vehicle Bill of Sale is required by state law when selling or transferring ownership of a vehicle. It serves as legal proof of the transaction and includes details such as the buyer, seller, sale price, and date. The official form — HSMV 82050 — must be completed and signed by both parties. Additionally, the seller must file a Notice of Sale with the FLHSMV to remove their name from the title and avoid future liability for the vehicle. Without this step, the seller could remain responsible for accidents, tolls, or violations that occur after the sale.

What should be on a Vehicle Bill of Sale?

To ensure accuracy and avoid future disputes, your Florida Vehicle Bill of Sale should include:

• Full names and contact details of both the seller and the buyer

• Vehicle details: make, model, year, color, body type, and VIN

• Exact date and time of the sale

• Total sale price and payment method

• Odometer reading (required by law)

• Statement that the vehicle is sold “as-is” (unless a warranty is provided)

• Declaration that the vehicle is free of liens or outstanding loans

• Signatures of both parties

Using the official HSMV 82050 form or a professional Vehicle Bill of Sale template ensures all legally required information is included and properly formatted.

What if the vehicle’s condition doesn’t match what’s stated in the Bill of Sale?

If the vehicle’s condition doesn’t match what’s stated in the Bill of Sale, first contact the seller in writing to try to resolve the issue — such as requesting repairs, a refund, or a price adjustment. If that fails, document the problems with photos or a mechanic’s report and consider your legal options. Providing false or misleading information about the vehicle’s condition, mileage, or title can be considered fraud or misrepresentation, giving the buyer grounds to cancel the agreement or take legal action. You can also file a complaint with the Florida Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. Always make sure the Bill of Sale accurately describes the vehicle and clearly states if it’s sold “as-is,” unless a warranty is provided.

Do I need a Vehicle Bill of Sale for a family transfer or gift?

Yes, using a Vehicle Bill of Sale is highly recommended — and, in many cases, necessary — even when a motor vehicle is transferred as a gift or between family members in Florida. It acts as formal proof that ownership has changed hands and clarifies that no money was exchanged. Under Florida law, a vehicle gift between individuals is exempt from sales tax provided no payment or other consideration is given and no lien is assumed by the recipient. To meet this exemption, you must declare the transfer as a gift on the title application (HSMV Form 82040) or equivalent, and a Bill of Sale or sworn statement should indicate that the vehicle was gifted (not sold). Keeping a signed Bill of Sale helps both the donor and the recipient avoid confusion over liability, taxes, or registration later.