In Alaska, a Vehicle Bill of Sale is more than just a receipt—it is a mandatory document required by the DMV to register a vehicle purchased from a private party. Without it, the DMV cannot verify the purchase price or the date of sale, which determines your registration fees and taxes.
Whether you are selling a truck in Anchorage or buying a boat in Juneau, this guide ensures your paperwork is legally binding and protects you from future liability.
Is a Bill of Sale Required in Alaska for Vehicle Registration?
Yes.
- For Buyers: You cannot register a vehicle bought from a private seller without one. The DMV needs it to calculate taxes (if applicable in your municipality) and verify you own the car.
- For Sellers: It is your primary defense. If the new owner gets into an accident or abandons the car before transferring the title, the Bill of Sale proves you no longer own the vehicle.
What Information Must Be Included in an Alaska Vehicle Bill of Sale
Alaska does not require a specific government-issued form for cars (boats use Form 841B). You can write your own or use a template, provided it contains these five specific elements:
- Date of Sale: The exact date the money and vehicle changed hands.
- Purchase Price: Clearly state the final amount paid.
- Vehicle Description: Must include the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), Make, Model, Year, and Color.
- Odometer Reading: Required for any vehicle less than 20 years old (Federal rule).
- Buyer & Seller Details: Full legal names, addresses, and signatures of both parties.
Note: While not legally required by Alaska state law, having the Bill of Sale notarized is highly recommended for high-value transactions to prevent identity fraud disputes.
How Sellers Should Complete a Vehicle Sale in Alaska Without Liability
Your responsibility doesn’t end when you hand over the keys. Follow these steps to release yourself from liability.
Step 1: Properly Draft and Verify the Alaska Vehicle Bill of Sale
Fill out the document with the buyer. Ensure the VIN on the paper matches the VIN on the dashboard exactly.
Step 2: Sign and Transfer the Alaska Certificate of Title Correctly
You must sign the Certificate of Title over to the buyer.
- Odometer Section: If the vehicle is a 2011 model or newer, you must fill out the Odometer Disclosure on the back of the title.
- Signatures: Sign exactly as your name appears on the front of the title.
Step 3: File the Alaska Notice of Transfer Pending to Release Legal Responsibility
This is the step most sellers forget. You must notify the DMV that you have sold the vehicle. If you don’t, you are still legally responsible for the car.
- Online: Submit the notice via the Alaska DMV online portal.
- Paper: Detach the bottom portion of your vehicle title (Form 820) and mail it to the DMV.
How Buyers Register a Vehicle in Alaska Using a Bill of Sale
Once you have the Bill of Sale and the signed title, you have 30 days to transfer ownership.
Step 1: Obtain Valid Alaska Auto Insurance Before Driving
Before driving the vehicle, you must have active insurance that meets Alaska’s minimum liability standards.
Step 2: Transfer the Vehicle Title and Registration at an Alaska DMV Office
You generally cannot transfer a title online. You must visit a DMV office or a business partner. To skip the long wait times, it is smart to book an Alaska DMV appointment in advance.
Bring these documents:
- The completed Bill of Sale.
- The original Title (signed by the seller).
- Form 812 (Application for Title and Registration).
- Payment for title and registration fees.
Step 3: Understand the Process Differences When Buying a Boat in Alaska
If the vehicle is a vessel, the process is slightly different. You will need to complete specific Alaska Boat Registration forms (Form 841B) rather than the standard vehicle forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. As long as it is legible and contains the VIN, price, date, names, and signatures, the Alaska DMV accepts handwritten Bills of Sale.
Yes. You should create a Bill of Sale that lists the purchase price as “$0” or “Gift.” This clarifies to the DMV why no taxes were collected (if applicable) and proves the transfer of ownership.
A Bill of Sale cannot replace a lost title. The seller must apply for a duplicate title before they can sell the car to you. Do not hand over money for a vehicle without a title, as you will not be able to register it.
If you changed addresses during the buying process, ensure your new address is on the Title Application (Form 812). If you already registered it and then moved, use the Alaska DMV Change of Address form to update your record immediately.
Conclusion
A well-executed Bill of Sale is your safety net in any vehicle transaction. For sellers, it pairs with the Notice of Transferto shield you from liability. For buyers, it is the golden ticket to getting your new car or truck legally on the road. Always verify the VIN, sign clearly, and file your paperwork within the 30-day window to avoid penalties.
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