How to Write a Contract to Sell a Car

Selling your own car can be simple and profitable, but it is also requires certain paperwork to be completed. This includes a contract with information about the vehicle being sold and all parties involved. You will need to have specific details to write a contract, but this can all be easily obtained.

Instructions

1. Find your state's contract requirements. Each state has various laws pertaining to the sale of vehicles. You must follow the laws of the state you are selling your car in to make it a legal transaction. There may be specific forms needed or a particular detail. Use the link in Resources to find what forms your state mandates. Once you get to the website, click on the state and read the regulations pertaining to selling a car. Find what relevant forms may be required for your state.

2. Create or print your contract. One form consistently required by most states is the contract. It may be acknowledged as a "Notice of Sale" or "Bill of Sale." This can be handwritten on a piece of paper or downloaded. There are a few websites provided that have free forms offered. Download and print a few copies of it or duplicate the wording onto paper by hand.

3. Get the data to fill in the details needed. Once you have the form, you will need to supply information about the vehicle. This will include the year, make and model of it. You will also need the VIN (vehicle identification number), selling price and the odometer reading. You could further add other details such as color, any defects or warranties ("As-Is"...), registration or plate number, engine number and other details required by the state.

4. Fill in the buyer and seller sections of the contract. You will need to have the full name and street address of both parties involved in the sale. You should print and leave room for a signature for each party. If the contract is more than one page, be sure each party signs and dates both pages of it. When witnesses or notary stamps are necessary, make sure you have provided room for them. Fill in all of the information on the contract, give a copy to the buyer, and keep one for your own records.

Tips & Warnings

• Always have two copies of the signed contract, one for the buyer and one for the seller. If you have access to a copy machine, you can make a copy after it is signed instead of the two copies.

• The website DMV.org is NOT associated with any state Department of Motor Vehicle agency. It is a privately owned website providing information.

Resources

• DMV State Regulations for Selling a Car
• Free Car Sales Agreement
• Free Bill of Sale