Iowa Car Bill of Sale: Form + Requirements
Iowa recommends a bill of sale for private vehicle transfers. The state doesn't publish a single mandatory form; generic templates are acceptable. Notarization is not required.
Is a bill of sale required in Iowa?
Recommended but not strictly required.
Notarization
Not required.
State-specific form
Iowa doesn't publish a single mandatory bill of sale form. Generic templates with the required fields are acceptable.
The bill of sale should include:
- Seller's full legal name, address
- Buyer's full legal name, address
- Vehicle year, make, model, body type, VIN
- Odometer reading
- Sale price
- Date of sale
- Both signatures
Sales tax implications
Iowa charges a one-time 5% Vehicle Use Tax at title transfer (different from Iowa's 6% standard sales tax). The buyer pays at the county treasurer's office.
State-specific seller disclosures
- Odometer disclosure: federally required for vehicles under 20 years old
- No statewide emissions testing: Iowa doesn't require periodic emissions inspection
- Salvage title disclosure: required if branded
Where to file
The buyer files at the county treasurer's office in their county of residence within 30 days of sale.
For a more complete national reference, see the national bill of sale guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a bill of sale in Iowa?
Recommended but not strictly required.
Does Iowa require a notarized bill of sale?
No.
What's the sales tax on a private car sale in Iowa?
5% Vehicle Use Tax (one-time, at title transfer). Different from Iowa's 6% standard sales tax.
What form do I use?
No single mandatory form. Generic templates with the required fields are acceptable.
Where do I file the bill of sale in Iowa?
At the county treasurer's office in the buyer's county of residence. Within 30 days of sale.
Does Iowa require emissions testing?
No.
What if I lost the title in Iowa?
Apply for a duplicate at the county treasurer's office.
Should I disclose flaws on the bill of sale?
The "as-is" disclosure covers most. Disclose salvage or rebuilt status and major defects.
Selling a car in Iowa?
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