Missouri Car Bill of Sale: Form 1957 + Requirements

Missouri recommends a bill of sale for private vehicle transfers. The state publishes Form 1957 (Bill of Sale). Missouri's structural quirk: the title signature must be notarized even though the bill of sale itself doesn't require it.

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Is a bill of sale required in Missouri?

Recommended. Missouri's title-transfer process focuses on the title (notarized signature required) and Form 108 (Application for Title and License).

Notarization

The title signature must be notarized. The bill of sale itself doesn't require notarization.

State-specific form

Form 1957 (Bill of Sale) is Missouri's optional bill of sale template. Available at dor.mo.gov.

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

Missouri state sales tax: 4.225% + local. Major metros:

St. Louis City: ~9.679% total
Kansas City: ~8.475% total
Springfield: ~8.1% total

The buyer pays at the Missouri DOR at title transfer.

State-specific seller disclosures

Odometer disclosure: federally required for vehicles under 20 years old
Title signature notarization: required (this is Missouri's structural quirk)
No statewide emissions testing: limited program in St. Louis and KC areas
Salvage title disclosure: required if branded
Strict 30-day buyer deadline: $25 base penalty plus monthly escalation for late titling

Where to file

The buyer files at any Missouri DOR Driver's License Office or Motor Vehicle office within 30 days of sale.

For a more complete national reference, see the national bill of sale guide, our St. Louis guide, and our Kansas City guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a bill of sale in Missouri?

Recommended. The bill of sale itself doesn't need to be notarized; the title does.

Does Missouri require a notarized title?

Yes. The seller's title signature must be notarized.

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

4.225% state + local. St. Louis City total is 9.679%; Kansas City ~8.475%.

What form do I use?

Form 1957 (Missouri Bill of Sale), available at dor.mo.gov.

Where do I file the bill of sale in Missouri?

At any Missouri DOR office (Driver's License or Motor Vehicle), with the signed (notarized) title. Within 30 days of sale.

Does Missouri require emissions testing?

Limited program in St. Louis and KC metros. Not statewide.

What if I lost the title in Missouri?

Apply for a duplicate at the Missouri DOR.

Should I disclose flaws on the bill of sale?

The "as-is" disclosure covers most. Disclose salvage or rebuilt status and major defects.

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