CA private-sale guide
California Bill of Sale
Create a California private-sale transaction record and review the current DMV title-transfer steps.
California publishes Bill of Sale REG 135. The bill of sale documents the price and parties but does not replace the endorsed title, odometer disclosure when applicable, or seller's Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability.
California REG 135 is not routinely notarized or witnessed; separate DMV title and release-of-liability steps still apply.
Open prefilled California generatorHow to sell a vehicle privately in California
Copy the vehicle information from the title, complete the title assignment, and use REG 135 to document the buyer, seller, price, and sale date.
The seller should submit the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability to DMV. The buyer completes the title transfer and any applicable odometer or smog steps using current DMV guidance.
This generator creates a supporting transaction record; use California's official forms wherever DMV requires them.
Official form: California Bill of Sale (REG 135)
What to know in California
More sale paperwork
Related bill of sale guides
Frequently asked questions
Does California require a notarized bill of sale?
California DMV guidance states that a bill of sale is not required to be notarized or witnessed. Other transfer documents can have different requirements.
What is California REG 135?
REG 135 is California DMV's Bill of Sale form for recording a vehicle or vessel transaction.
Does a bill of sale transfer the title?
No. The buyer and seller must still complete the title and other applicable DMV transfer steps.
What should each party keep?
Each party should keep the same signed sale record along with copies of the title-transfer paperwork relevant to them.
Important note
This is practical paperwork guidance, not legal advice. State DMV rules change; confirm current titling, notarization, and odometer requirements with California before relying on this document.