Oklahoma Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Form

SAVE PDF WORD RTF EMAIL
PDF
WORD
RTF

An Oklahoma motor vehicle bill of sale form proves the sale of a car and transfer of ownership from a seller to a buyer in the state. Its primary purpose is to serve as an official document stating that a specific transaction has occurred. Apart from being a requirement in the vehicle registration process, it protects both parties against legal accusations. Overall, the completed and properly documented form ensures a transparent, law-abiding, and traceable exchange of ownership.

  • Statutes: Title 47
  • Signing Requirements: All buyers and sellers must provide their signatures.

What is an Oklahoma Car Bill of Sale?

An Oklahoma car bill of sale maintains a record of who purchased a car and when the deal occurred. The detailed information it includes, such as the selling price and the date of sale, aids in establishing the sales tax amount payable during the vehicle registration. It also contains critical information, like the vehicle’s details, price, seller’s and buyer’s information, and the transaction date. The seller transfers liability to the buyer for the car by signing; therefore, both parties should keep a copy for their records.


What are the Buyer’s Tasks?

Whether someone is buying a vehicle from a dealership or a private seller, they should start by determining their needs and setting a budget. Online research is critical for understanding the market, the model’s specifications, and user reviews. Furthermore, individuals financing the purchase may have to receive pre-approval for the loan through a bank or credit union.

Car buyers must inspect and test-drive the vehicle, especially during a private sale where warranties often don’t apply. They should also consider doing a vehicle history report to ensure no significant past incidents with the car.

Price negotiation is part of the process, regardless of the seller. A careful review of all documents, including the deal terms, loan agreement, and vehicle title, ensures no liens exist on the vehicle, and the merchant is the legal owner. Arranging for car insurance is required before taking possession of the car.

Completing the necessary paperwork to transfer the vehicle’s title and register is the final administrative step before the buyer can finalize the purchase and take home their new car. Regardless of the buying approach, taking time with the process is essential, as purchasing a vehicle is a significant decision.


What are the Seller’s Tasks?

When someone in Oklahoma is selling a car, whether as a dealer or a private seller, they have several tasks to take care of:

  1. Prepare the Car: They should ensure the car is clean and in good repair. They might also want to gather maintenance records to show potential buyers.
  2. Set a Price: They must decide how much to ask for the car. They can research online or use an appraisal tool to assess the costs of similar models. 
  3. Advertise: They should let people know the car is for sale. They can place signs, post online, or publish ads in local papers. Dealers usually list their vehicles on websites and other online car sales platforms.
  4. Meet with Buyers: They must be available to show the car and let potential buyers take it for a test drive. They should also be ready to negotiate the price as a private seller.
  5. Agree to a Sale: Once they find a buyer who wants the car and agrees to the price, they can proceed with the sale.
  6. Handle Paperwork: This process differs between dealers and private sellers. Dealers usually handle all the paperwork, including transferring the title, registration, and sales tax forms. On the other hand, private sellers must give the buyer a signed title and a lien release (if applicable). In Oklahoma, sellers must also fill out the “Seller’s Notification of Sale” (Form 773) and submit it within thirty (30) days of the sale. This form protects the seller if the buyer fails to register the vehicle or gets into legal trouble.
  7. Finalize the Sale: The final step is accepting payment and handing over the keys. They should pay with a certified check or money order to avoid payment scams.

 By following these steps, anyone selling a car in Oklahoma, whether as a dealer or a private seller, can make the process smoother and more manageable for themselves and the buyer.


How to Register a Car in Oklahoma (4 Steps)

New owners must register their car with the state of Oklahoma within thirty (30) days of purchasing. During the same period, individuals must insure it according to state law.

Oklahoma does not require cars to pass safety checks or emissions tests to be registered. However, they must have the appropriate documents available when obtaining a title and registration in their name. Residents must complete the required tasks on time to avoid legal issues while driving the new car.

Step 1 – Insurance

In Oklahoma, owners must have vehicle insurance before registering and driving their cars. State law mandates basic insurance coverage that includes $25,000 for the death or injury of one (1) person, $50,000 for the death or injury of multiple individuals, and $25,000 for property damage in an accident. This policy also goes by the name of “25/50/25 coverage.”

Drivers can face penalties if caught operating the vehicle without the required insurance. These liabilities may include fines, jail time, or even having their car impounded. Additionally, they could be personally responsible for damages if they get into an accident without insurance. For these reasons, all drivers must understand and follow these rules to avoid legal trouble and protect themselves and others on the road.

Step 2 – Title

In Oklahoma, getting a vehicle title for a newly purchased car involves several essential documents. First, the new owner needs a bill of sale, which shows the transfer of ownership. They also need the odometer disclosure statement (Form 729) for a correct record of the car’s mileage. Before registration, proof of insurance that meets Oklahoma’s minimum requirements is necessary. The owner must also prepare the payment for the registration and title fees and the motor vehicle excise tax. They must also present a valid form of identification. 

The certificate of title, previously held by the seller, should be handed over to the new owner. If this is unavailable, applications for a new or duplicate title may be necessary. The state also requires an Affidavit of Assembly and Ownership (Form 761A) for self-assembled or modified cars. Vehicles with a lien require evidence from the loan provider. Lastly, the owner must complete an Oklahoma motor vehicle power of attorney form if someone else handles the registration and titling process. Once the individual assembles these documents, the new owner can proceed with the vehicle titling process at an authorized location.

Step 3 – Registration

When registering a vehicle in Oklahoma, the buyer has several responsibilities to ensure a smooth transaction. First, they must bring a properly completed Oklahoma motor vehicle bill of sale form from the seller, which serves as proof of the transaction. If they do not have the document available, they can use a declaration of vehicle purchase price (Form 722-1). However, this type of paperwork does not verify ownership.

They also need to ensure that the seller has provided a valid certificate of title signed by all parties involved. After the transaction, it’s the buyer’s responsibility to pay the applicable sales tax and fees.

Subsequently, the buyer should submit all relevant documents, including the bill of sale, the signed title, insurance verification, and registration fee payment, to a licensed operator or service Oklahoma location. To avoid late fees, the owner must complete this process within thirty (30) days of the purchase date. Lastly, the buyer should keep copies of all documentation related to the sale for future reference.

Step 4 – Renew

In Oklahoma, vehicle registration lasts for one (1) year and needs an annual renewal. When the expiration date for tags approaches, the vehicle owner receives a renewal notice in the mail from the state of Oklahoma. The renewal can be done online or in person at a nearby location. To renew, the owner must provide the following:

  • Their current registration or renewal notice.
  • Proof of car insurance.
  • Payment for the renewal fee.

Individuals must complete their online and mail renewals at least a few days before the registration expires to allow for processing time. They should submit the forms and payment on time to avoid late fees and potential penalties. After renewal, the owner receives a new registration certificate and decal for their license plate, showing they have updated their tags.