Tennessee Bill of Sale Forms (5)
A Tennessee bill of sale form lays out the happenings that transpired during a deal between a merchant and customer or purchaser. Both parties should complete the form after determining a sales price. Next, the buyer must compensate the seller as discussed. Similarly, the seller must give the buyer the personal property and other necessary items, like keys or paperwork.
Summary
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Types (5)
Boat Bill of Sale – Used when gaining possession of a boat or other watercraft from a private seller.
Download: PDF
Firearm Bill of Sale – Attests a firearm’s physical movement of ownership.
General Bill of Sale – Acts as a note of purchase paid for by cash or trade or received by gift.
Download: PDF |
Trailer Bill of Sale – Makes the transaction of a carrying trailer from a seller to a buyer evident.
Signing Requirements
Bill of Sale Type | Buyer Signature | Seller Signature | Notarization |
Boat | Required | Required | Not required |
Firearm | Required | Required | Not required |
General (others) | Required | Required | Not required |
Motor Vehicle | Required | Required | Not required |
Trailer | Required | Required | Not required |
What is a Tennessee Bill of Sale?
A Tennessee bill of sale is a legal document referenced by the state or individuals to learn the specifics of a business agreement. It explains how and when a person legally transfers personal property to another individual.
Generally, transactions occur through a dealership or by private sale. If the transfer involves a dealer, the salesperson handles the registration matters (if applicable). However, if the interaction happens through a private sale, the new owner must register the item if needed. If the deal involves a car, boat, or other registered personal property, the previous owner should inform the state they gave up possession.
Tennessee’s Department of Revenue (DOR) does not require a bill of sale to register a car or boat; however, the state recommends the form to provide proof of legal purchase. In addition, it shows that the item is rightfully the new owner’s and no longer the previous owner’s.
Registration Forms: Boats
Residents must register their boat with a Tennessee county clerk or use the online portal.
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Registration Forms: Firearms
The state does not require firearm registration and has minimal carry laws. However, gun holders can obtain a permit to ease restrictions, thus allowing them to carry in more places. Individuals can choose from two types of licenses: regular and enhanced. They must submit the applicable paperwork to a driver services center or complete an online application.
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Registration Forms: Vehicles
Owners must submit forms and payments to a local county clerk location.
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Additional (Optional) Documents
- Affidavit of Inheritance (Form F-1310501) – For individuals acquiring a car after the death of a family member or spouse.
- Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfers (Form RV-F1301201) – Required when gifting a car or boat to another person.
- Certification of Ownership (Form RV-1310401) – For owners who need a title for a vehicle valued at $3,000 or a car thirty (30) years or older.
- Tennessee Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney – To take care of vehicle matters for another person.
- Title Only Application (Form F-1310101) – For vehicles that only need titling (i.e., no registration).
Registration Forms: Trailers
Privately owned and operated trailers do not need a registration or title in Tennessee. This law includes homemade trailers and those for boats and utility purposes. The vehicle towing the trailer must have a registration, title, and insurance policy.
Only commercial, pole, and rental trailers, or campers, need registration and/or a title. Individuals traveling out of the state must also check with the laws of that jurisdiction to ensure they do not require licensing.