Vermont Car Bill of Sale: Form VT-005 + Requirements
Vermont is one of 16 US states that require a bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer. The state publishes Form VT-005 (Bill of Sale). Notarization is not required. Vermont is notable for historically having weaker title-brand carryover laws — the state tightened rules in 2023.
Is a bill of sale required in Vermont?
Yes. VT requires a signed bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer.
Notarization
Not required.
State-specific form
Form VT-005 (Bill of Sale) is Vermont's standard form. Available at dmv.vermont.gov.
The form must 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
Vermont Purchase and Use Tax: 6% of the higher of (sale price OR NADA value, whichever is greater). The buyer pays at the DMV at title transfer.
State-specific seller disclosures
- Odometer disclosure: federally required for vehicles under 20 years old
- Annual safety inspection: required for VT-registered vehicles
- No statewide emissions testing: VT doesn't require periodic emissions inspection
- Salvage title disclosure: required if branded
Where to file
The buyer files at any Vermont DMV office within 60 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 Vermont?
Yes. VT requires a signed bill of sale for private vehicle title transfer.
Does VT require a notarized bill of sale?
No.
What's the sales tax on a private car sale in VT?
6% Purchase and Use Tax of the higher of (sale price OR NADA value).
What form do I use?
Form VT-005 (Vermont Bill of Sale), available at dmv.vermont.gov.
Where do I file the bill of sale in VT?
At any Vermont DMV office, with the signed title. Within 60 days of sale.
Does VT require safety inspection?
Yes — annual safety inspection for VT-registered vehicles.
What about Vermont's old "title washing" reputation?
Vermont historically had weaker brand carryover, which made it a route for title washing. The state tightened rules in 2023; current Vermont titles carry brands forward consistent with national NMVTIS standards.
What if I lost the title in VT?
Apply for a duplicate at the VT DMV.
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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