A Montana Bill Of Sale is an important written record that documents the sale of a vehicle or other property between a seller and a buyer. For vehicle transactions, it can help establish important details such as the vehicle identification number, purchase price, buyer information, seller information, and date of sale. Montana’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) also provides an official Bill of Sale form, known as MV24, for certain vehicle transactions.
However, a bill of sale should not be confused with a Montana vehicle title. For a Montana-titled vehicle, the bill of sale generally does not replace the title or the required title transfer process. The Montana MVD specifically explains that all registered owners must properly sign the title when ownership of a Montana title is transferred.
Whether you are buying or selling a used car, truck, trailer, motorcycle, or another qualifying vehicle, keeping accurate documentation can make the transaction easier to understand later. This guide explains what to include in a Montana Bill Of Sale, how it relates to vehicle title transfers, and practical steps buyers and sellers can take to maintain a complete record.
What Is a Montana Bill Of Sale?
A Montana Bill Of Sale is a written document that records the details of a transaction. In a vehicle sale, it can serve as a useful record showing who purchased the vehicle, who sold it, what vehicle was involved, when the transaction occurred, and the amount paid.
The Montana MVD provides Form MV24, Bill of Sale. The current form includes fields for the purchaser, identification information, address, vehicle year, make, model, vehicle or hull identification number, sale amount, signatures, and other transaction details.
A written bill of sale can also be useful for maintaining personal records. Montana MVD recommends that sellers keep documentation of the sale containing information such as the buyer’s name and address and vehicle details. The MVD notes that this record may be a copy of the reassigned title or another document containing relevant transaction information.
Is a Bill Of Sale Required in Montana?
The answer depends on the transaction and the type of documentation being used. Montana’s MVD provides an official Bill of Sale form and identifies circumstances in which a bill of sale is used. For example, the 2026 Montana Title Manual states that a Bill of Sale on Form MV24 is required when applying for a break in ownership when the vehicle is not mechanically functional.
For ordinary private vehicle sales, however, the bill of sale should not be treated as a replacement for the vehicle title. Montana MVD explains that the bill of sale does not replace a Montana title and that the current title must be properly signed by the owners listed on it.
Because requirements can vary depending on the vehicle and circumstances, buyers and sellers should review the latest Montana MVD instructions before completing a transaction.
What Information Should a Montana Bill Of Sale Include?
A useful Montana Bill Of Sale should contain enough information to clearly identify the parties, the property being sold, and the terms of the transaction. The official MV24 form provides a practical reference for vehicle transactions.
Buyer Information
The document should clearly identify the purchaser. Depending on the applicable form and transaction, this can include the buyer’s full name, address, and an appropriate identification number.
- Full legal name of the buyer
- Address
- City, state, and ZIP code
- Applicable identification information
Seller Information
The seller’s information should also be recorded accurately. For a vehicle transaction, the seller should be the owner of record or otherwise legally authorized to complete the transaction.
Montana MVD states that a person generally must be the owner listed on the title to legally sell a vehicle, unless the seller is operating as a properly licensed dealer.
Vehicle Information
Vehicle identification details are particularly important because they distinguish the vehicle involved in the transaction from other vehicles.
- Year
- Make
- Model
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Relevant vehicle or title information
- Odometer information when applicable
The official MV24 form includes the year, make, model, and vehicle or hull identification number. It also directs users to the separate Odometer Disclosure Statement, MV90A, for vehicle model years 2011 and newer.
What Should Be Included in the Sale Details?
The financial terms should be clear enough that both parties understand what was agreed upon. At minimum, record the purchase price and date of sale. If the parties agree to additional terms, those terms should be documented clearly rather than relying on a verbal agreement.
Purchase Price
Write the actual agreed purchase price in the document. Avoid leaving the price blank after the parties have completed the transaction.
Date of Sale
The date of sale establishes when the transaction occurred. It can also be important when determining deadlines associated with title and registration.
Payment Details
If useful for the transaction, the parties can maintain supporting documentation showing whether payment was made by cash, check, electronic transfer, financing, or another agreed method. Keeping payment evidence together with the bill of sale can create a more complete transaction record.
Montana Bill Of Sale and Vehicle Title Transfer
One of the most important points for Montana vehicle buyers and sellers is understanding the difference between a bill of sale and a title.
A vehicle title establishes legal ownership. Montana MVD explains that a vehicle cannot be titled in Montana without also being registered, and the title and registration process is handled through the applicable state and county procedures.
For a Montana-titled vehicle, a bill of sale generally cannot be used by itself to transfer ownership. The 2026 Montana Title Manual states that a Bill of Sale cannot be used to transfer ownership of a Montana title and that all registered owners must sign off on the title itself.
This distinction is important because simply signing a Montana Bill Of Sale does not necessarily complete the legal title transfer. The buyer should make sure the required title documents are properly completed and submitted.
How to Sell a Vehicle in Montana
Preparing the paperwork before handing over the vehicle can help reduce mistakes and misunderstandings. Montana MVD provides several recommendations for sellers.
1. Confirm Ownership
Make sure you are the owner listed on the title and that the title is available. Montana MVD states that a seller must have the title in their possession to sell the vehicle, subject to specific exceptions.
2. Resolve Liens
If a security interest or lien appears on the title, resolve the lien appropriately before completing the transaction. Montana MVD recommends providing a lien release when applicable.
3. Complete the Required Documents
Complete the title transfer paperwork and any applicable bill of sale. Make sure names, addresses, VIN information, and other details are accurate and consistent.
4. Keep a Copy of the Sale Record
Keep a copy of the signed documentation for your records. Montana MVD specifically recommends maintaining a written record containing relevant buyer and vehicle information.
5. Remove the License Plates
Montana MVD advises sellers to remove their license plates before giving the vehicle to the buyer. The seller may be able to transfer eligible plates to another vehicle, subject to applicable requirements.
How to Buy a Vehicle in Montana
Buyers should review the vehicle and paperwork carefully before completing payment. The information on the bill of sale, title, and vehicle should be consistent.
- Verify the seller’s identity and ownership documents.
- Compare the VIN on the vehicle with the VIN on the title and transaction documents.
- Review the purchase price and sale date.
- Check for disclosed liens or security interests.
- Obtain properly completed title documentation.
- Keep a copy of the bill of sale and other purchase records.
Montana MVD states that a buyer has 40 days from the sale date to transfer ownership by applying for title and registration. A $10 late fee applies when the buyer waits longer than 40 days.
Does a Montana Bill Of Sale Need to Be Notarized?
Not every Montana vehicle transaction requires notarization. Montana MVD’s current FAQ explains that legislation removed the notarization requirement for individuals as of October 2, 2025. Titles produced after October 1, 2025, no longer have a notary section, while older titles can still be accepted without that section completed.
The MV24 form also states that notarization is required only in specific situations, including when the form is used with an Application for Break/Bond Title or when an Electronic Records Transfer occurs.
Therefore, do not automatically assume that every Montana Bill Of Sale must be notarized. Instead, check the current MVD instructions for the specific transaction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A carefully completed bill of sale can reduce confusion, but errors can still occur. Watch for these common problems:
- Using the bill of sale as a substitute for the title: A Montana Bill Of Sale does not generally replace the Montana certificate of title.
- Incorrect VIN: Compare the VIN on the vehicle with the VIN written on the documents.
- Missing signatures: Make sure all required parties sign the applicable documents.
- Incomplete buyer information: Use the buyer’s correct legal name and address.
- Unresolved liens: Confirm that required lien releases have been obtained.
- Leaving blank fields: Complete the form carefully and avoid unnecessary alterations.
- Failing to keep records: Retain a signed copy of the transaction documents.
Tips for Using a Montana Bill Of Sale Template
A printable Montana Bill Of Sale template can make it easier to organize transaction information before completing official paperwork. However, a template should be treated as a recordkeeping tool rather than automatically assuming it is an official state form.
For vehicle transactions, compare your information with the current Montana MVD MV24 Bill of Sale and other applicable title documents. The official MV24 is available through Montana’s Motor Vehicle Division forms and manuals resources.
Before signing, check every field carefully. The buyer and seller should agree on the vehicle description, purchase price, date, and other terms. If the transaction involves unusual circumstances, an out-of-state title, a lien, a damaged title, or a bonded title process, additional documentation may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana Bill Of Sale
Can a Montana Bill Of Sale replace a vehicle title?
Generally, no. Montana MVD states that a bill of sale does not replace a Montana title. The required title transfer process must still be completed.
What is the official Montana Bill of Sale form?
The Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division provides Form MV24, titled Bill of Sale. The form is designed for applicable vehicle or vessel transactions.
How long does a buyer have to transfer ownership?
Montana MVD states that buyers have 40 days from the sale date to transfer ownership by applying for title and registration. A late fee applies after that period.
Should the seller keep a copy?
Yes. Keeping a written record of the transaction is a practical step. Montana MVD recommends that sellers retain documentation containing relevant buyer and vehicle information.
Conclusion
A Montana Bill Of Sale provides a useful written record of a vehicle transaction and can help organize important details such as the buyer, seller, vehicle identification number, purchase price, and sale date. For Montana vehicle sales, however, it is essential to understand that the bill of sale is not generally a replacement for the certificate of title.
For the most reliable transaction record, complete the applicable Montana MVD documents accurately, verify the vehicle information, resolve any liens, retain copies of signed paperwork, and follow the current title and registration requirements. When a specific transaction involves unusual ownership circumstances or specialized title procedures, consult the Montana Motor Vehicle Division or the appropriate County Treasurer for current requirements.