Alabama Car Bill of Sale: Notarized Form + Requirements

Alabama is one of 16 US states that require a bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer. Both seller and buyer signatures must be notarized. Alabama publishes its own form (MVT 32-13B), and using the state form rather than a generic template avoids registration delays.

Create my listing free →

Is a bill of sale required in Alabama?

Yes. Alabama requires a notarized bill of sale (Form MVT 32-13B or equivalent) for private vehicle title transfer. The DMV will not process the title transfer without one.

Notarization

Required. Both seller and buyer signatures must be witnessed by a notary public. Most banks offer free notarization to account holders; UPS Stores typically charge $5–$25; mobile notaries run $25–$50.

State-specific form

Form MVT 32-13B (Alabama Bill of Sale) is the state-published form. Available at revenue.alabama.gov. Using the state form is recommended; generic templates may be rejected at title transfer.

The form must include:

Seller's full legal name, address, driver's license number
Buyer's full legal name, address, driver's license number
Vehicle year, make, model, body type, VIN
Odometer reading on the date of sale
Sale price
Date of sale
"Sold as-is" disclosure
Both signatures, notarized

Sales tax implications

Alabama state sales tax is 2% on motor vehicle sales (specifically, the state automobile rental tax structure applies). Local sales tax adds significantly:

Birmingham (Jefferson County): total ~10%
Mobile: total ~10%
Huntsville (Madison County): total ~9%
Montgomery: total ~10%

The buyer pays at title transfer at the county courthouse or designated probate office.

State-specific seller disclosures

Odometer disclosure: federally required for vehicles under 20 years old; included on the title and Form MVT 32-13B
No state-mandated emissions testing: Alabama does not require periodic emissions inspection (unlike CA or some northeastern states)
Salvage title disclosure: required if the vehicle has a salvage or rebuilt title brand

Where to file

The buyer files the notarized bill of sale + signed title at the Alabama DMV office or designated probate office in their county of residence within 30 days of sale.

For a more complete national reference, see the national bill of sale guide and the transfer car title pillar.

Common mistakes

Using a generic template instead of Form MVT 32-13B. The state form is designed to satisfy AL-specific data fields. Generic templates can cause registration delays.

Skipping notarization. Alabama requires both signatures witnessed. Don't sign the bill of sale before the notary appointment.

Underreporting the sale price. The county tax office cross-checks against fair market value; underreporting may result in tax assessment at the higher value.

Forgetting odometer reading. The bill of sale must record the actual odometer reading at the date of sale; the title's odometer field is the legally binding mileage record.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a notarized bill of sale in Alabama?

Yes. Alabama is one of 16 US states that require a notarized bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer. Both seller and buyer signatures must be witnessed by a notary public.

What form do I use for an Alabama car bill of sale?

Form MVT 32-13B (Alabama Bill of Sale), available at revenue.alabama.gov. Using the state form is recommended over generic templates.

How much does it cost to notarize a bill of sale in Alabama?

Free at most banks for account holders. $5–$25 at UPS Stores or other notary publics. $25–$50 for mobile notary services.

What's the sales tax on a private car sale in Alabama?

State 2% + local. Total typically 8–10% depending on city and county. Birmingham, Mobile, and Montgomery are roughly 10%.

Where do I file the bill of sale in Alabama?

At the buyer's county DMV office or designated probate office, along with the signed title. Within 30 days of sale.

Does Alabama require emissions testing?

No. Alabama doesn't require periodic emissions inspection.

What if I lost the title in Alabama?

Apply for a duplicate at the Alabama Department of Revenue. Standard duplicate-title process; takes 1–4 weeks.

Should I disclose flaws on the bill of sale?

The "as-is" disclosure on Form MVT 32-13B covers most disclosures. Disclose any salvage or rebuilt title status, and any major known defects in writing for your protection.

Selling a car in Alabama?

Generate a Birmingham-, Mobile-, or Huntsville-ready listing for Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Cars.com from one upload. About ten minutes total.