Can a bill of sale be handwritten?
What a handwritten bill of sale must include
The same eight items any bill of sale needs: seller's full name and address, buyer's full name and address, item description (with VIN or serial number where applicable), sale price, date of sale, as-is statement, odometer reading for vehicles under 20 years old, and both signatures. Miss any of these and it may not hold up if the sale is later challenged.
Why typed is safer
Handwriting can be misread, smudged, or claimed to have been altered. A typed document is easier for a DMV clerk to process, cleaner for tax records, and produces two identical copies for both parties. It also nudges you to include everything — a form prompts you for each required field, so nothing gets left out by accident.
If you're handwriting one anyway
Use blue or black ink, write clearly in block letters, and make two originals — one for each party. Both parties sign both copies. Include the make, model, year, VIN/serial number, mileage/hours, and the exact wording: "Sold AS-IS with no warranty, express or implied." Never leave blanks.
The easy way
Solda's free template asks you the right questions, formats a clean single-page PDF, and lets you sign on screen. First document is free — no account required.
General information only — not legal advice. Rules vary by state; verify with your state's DMV or a qualified attorney for your situation.