How to Write a Receipt of Sale for a Car

A valid and well-crafted receipt is important for both the buyer and the seller of a used car. Without a receipt, the buyer can't prove ownership of the vehicle to the DMV. If the seller doesn't retain a copy, he has little defense against legal allegations from the buyer.

A car sales receipt should include vehicle information, confirmation of the exchange of documents, a paragraph describing the nature of the sale, and personal information of the buyer and seller. You can find several templates online that show you how to write a sales receipt for selling a car, or you can create your own once you know the typical contents the document includes.

Begin by labeling the receipt as "Bill of Sale" and list the date of the transaction. Identify all the pertinent identification for your car so there's no confusion about what's being sold. Write the car make, model, registration number and mileage on the face of the receipt.

If there are any other unique or important features about the car, note them here. For example, this is a good place to mention any car damage or missing features, like a spoiler that was removed or an antenna that was ripped off.

Without the correct paperwork, the buyer is going to have a tough time re-registering the car in his name. Allot a space on the sales receipt for selling a car to confirm necessary documents have been exchanged.

List out the crucial documents – at a minimum, the completed registration document and vehicle title. If you don't have the title or registration document, you'll need to contact your area's department of motor vehicles to obtain replacement copies that you can provide the buyer. Other documents you might include are the vehicle's manual, records showing past repairs and maintenance and any contracts for extended warranties that apply. Mark "yes" when you've exchanged all the information.

Include a paragraph in the sales receipt for selling a car that states you are selling the vehicle and list the agreed-upon sales price. It's important include a "sold as seen, tried and approved without guarantee" clause in this paragraph. This means that the seller isn't promising a vehicle other than what both parties have seen and the seller isn't guaranteeing future performance.

However, even with this clause, it's not legal to sell a car known to be unroadworthy. So, it's worth getting the vehicle inspected for issues first and disclosing any known issues to the buyer.

Create two paragraphs at the bottom of the receipt dedicated to the seller and the buyer. Leave a space for each individual to print his name, sign the receipt and write in his address and phone number. Make a copy of the completed receipt for both the buyer and the seller. The buyer will need it to show proof of ownership to the DMV, and the seller should retain a copy as evidence for any potential legal disputes.