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ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Buying, Renting, and Leasing a Car

Buying a Used Car

If I buy a car from a private seller, besides the written car contract do I need to get anything else in writing?

You should have a bill of sale. Many states require you to present a bill of sale to register your car. A bill of sale also may serve as a receipt. The bill of sale should contain the following:

  • The date of the sale
  • The year, make, and model of the car
  • The vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • The odometer reading
  • The amount paid for the car, and the form in which it was made (cash, check, etc.)
  • The buyer's and seller's names, addresses, and phone numbers

    The seller should sign and date the bill of sale, and both you and the seller should get a copy.

    • American Bar Association Family Legal Guide
    Copyright © 2004 American Bar Association
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