Arkansas Car Bill of Sale: Form + Requirements
Arkansas is one of 16 US states that require a bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer. Notarization is not required, but both parties must sign. The DFA recommends using a state-style template that includes the required fields.
Is a bill of sale required in Arkansas?
Yes. The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) requires a signed bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer.
Notarization
Not required. Both parties simply sign the bill of sale.
State-specific form
Arkansas doesn't publish a single mandatory form. Any bill of sale containing the required fields is acceptable. Many sellers use a generic template.
The bill of sale must include:
- Seller's full legal name, address
- Buyer's full legal name, address
- Vehicle year, make, model, body type, VIN
- Odometer reading on the date of sale
- Sale price
- Date of sale
- Both signatures
Sales tax implications
Arkansas state sales tax: 6.5% on motor vehicle sales (vehicles priced $4,000 and above). Cars under $4,000 are exempt from state sales tax (a particular AR feature). Local sales tax adds; total typically 8.5–10.5% in major metros.
The buyer pays at registration at the county.
State-specific seller disclosures
- Odometer disclosure: federally required for vehicles under 20 years old
- No state-mandated emissions testing: Arkansas doesn't require periodic emissions inspection
- Salvage title disclosure: required if branded
- $4,000 sales tax exemption: vehicles selling for less than $4,000 are exempt from state sales tax (but local may still apply)
Where to file
The buyer files at the county revenue office within 30 days of sale. Late penalties apply.
For a more complete national reference, see the national bill of sale guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a bill of sale to sell a car in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas requires a signed bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer.
Does Arkansas require a notarized bill of sale?
No.
What's the sales tax on a private car sale in Arkansas?
6.5% state on vehicles $4,000+. Vehicles under $4,000 are exempt from state sales tax. Local sales tax adds; total typically 8.5–10.5% in major metros.
Does the $4,000 exemption mean no tax at all under $4,000?
State exempts; local sales tax may still apply. Check your county.
What form do I use for an Arkansas bill of sale?
No single mandatory form. Use any template containing the required fields (seller, buyer, VIN, odometer, price, date, signatures).
Where do I file the bill of sale in Arkansas?
At the county revenue office, along with the signed title. Within 30 days of sale.
Does Arkansas require emissions testing?
No.
What if I lost the title in Arkansas?
Apply for a duplicate at the AR DFA. Takes 2–4 weeks.
Should I disclose flaws on the bill of sale?
The "as-is" disclosure covers most. Disclose salvage or rebuilt title status and major defects.
Selling a car in Arkansas?
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