Maryland Bill of Sale
MARYLAND BILL OF SALE
COMPREHENSIVE TRANSFER OF PERSONAL PROPERTY
DOCUMENT TYPE
Select the applicable transaction type:
☐ Motor Vehicle Sale (Private Party)
☐ Motor Vehicle Sale (Dealer)
☐ Watercraft / Vessel Sale
☐ General Personal Property Sale
☐ Gift Transfer (No Consideration)
☐ Estate / Probate Transfer
☐ Business Asset Transfer
Date of Sale: [__/__/____]
Document Reference Number: [________________________________]
ARTICLE I — DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this Bill of Sale, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:
1.1 "Seller" or "Transferor" means the party conveying ownership of the Property, as identified in Article II, Section 2.1.
1.2 "Buyer" or "Transferee" means the party acquiring ownership of the Property, as identified in Article II, Section 2.2.
1.3 "Property" means the personal property described in Article IV of this Bill of Sale, including all associated rights, accessories, and appurtenances.
1.4 "Purchase Price" means the total consideration paid or to be paid by the Buyer to the Seller for the Property, as set forth in Article V.
1.5 "Vehicle" means any motor vehicle, motorcycle, trailer, or motorized equipment subject to titling and registration under the Maryland Transportation Code, Title 13.
1.6 "Vessel" or "Watercraft" means any boat, personal watercraft, or other vessel subject to registration under Md. Code, Nat. Res. §§ 8-701 et seq.
1.7 "As-Is" means an exclusion of implied warranties only where enforceable under Md. Code, Com. Law §§ 2-316 and 2-316.1. It does not erase any express warranty or Seller representation in this Bill of Sale.
1.8 "Fair Market Value" means the price at which the Property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither being under compulsion, with both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.
1.9 "Lien" means any security interest, encumbrance, mortgage, claim, or charge upon or against the Property.
1.10 "MVA" means the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, the state agency responsible for vehicle titling and registration.
1.11 "DNR" means the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the state agency responsible for vessel registration and titling.
1.12 "ERT" means the Electronic Registration and Titling system used by the Maryland MVA for processing title applications.
ARTICLE II — PARTIES
Section 2.1 — Seller / Transferor
Full Legal Name: [________________________________]
Date of Birth: [__/__/____]
Maryland Driver's License / ID Number: [________________________________]
Social Security Number (last four digits): XXX-XX-[____]
Mailing Address: [________________________________]
City: [________________________________] State: Maryland ZIP: [____]
County: [________________________________]
Telephone: [________________________________]
Email: [________________________________]
Entity Type (if applicable):
☐ Individual
☐ Married Couple (Joint Sellers)
☐ Corporation — State of Incorporation: [________________________________]
☐ Limited Liability Company — State of Formation: [________________________________]
☐ Partnership
☐ Estate of: [________________________________]
☐ Trust — Name of Trust: [________________________________]
☐ Other: [________________________________]
Tax Identification Number (if entity): [________________________________]
Section 2.2 — Buyer / Transferee
Full Legal Name: [________________________________]
Date of Birth: [__/__/____]
Maryland Driver's License / ID Number: [________________________________]
Social Security Number (last four digits): XXX-XX-[____]
Mailing Address: [________________________________]
City: [________________________________] State: [________________________________] ZIP: [____]
County: [________________________________]
Telephone: [________________________________]
Email: [________________________________]
Entity Type (if applicable):
☐ Individual
☐ Married Couple (Joint Buyers)
☐ Corporation — State of Incorporation: [________________________________]
☐ Limited Liability Company — State of Formation: [________________________________]
☐ Partnership
☐ Trust — Name of Trust: [________________________________]
☐ Other: [________________________________]
Tax Identification Number (if entity): [________________________________]
ARTICLE III — SALE AND TRANSFER
3.1 Grant of Sale. In consideration of the Purchase Price and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Seller does hereby sell, transfer, assign, convey, and deliver to the Buyer all of the Seller's right, title, and interest in and to the Property described in Article IV of this Bill of Sale.
3.2 Effective Date. The sale and transfer shall be effective as of [__/__/____] (the "Effective Date").
3.3 Delivery. The Seller shall deliver the Property to the Buyer at the following location:
Delivery Address: [________________________________]
City: [________________________________] State: [________________________________] ZIP: [____]
Delivery Date: [__/__/____] Delivery Time: [____]
3.4 Risk of Loss. For goods governed by Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-509, risk of loss follows that section unless the parties make a contrary agreement below. For goods neither shipped by carrier nor held by a bailee, risk passes on the Buyer's receipt if the Seller is a merchant, or on the Seller's tender of delivery if the Seller is not a merchant. Carrier shipments and goods held by a bailee follow § 2-509(1) or (2), respectively. These rules remain subject to the provisions governing sale on approval and the effect of breach on risk of loss. Any agreed allocation of risk permitted by applicable law: [________________________________].
3.5 Acceptance. The Buyer shall have the right to inspect the Property upon delivery. Acceptance occurs when the Buyer signifies acceptance, fails to make an effective rejection, or performs any act inconsistent with the Seller's ownership, in accordance with Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-606.
ARTICLE IV — PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
Section 4.1 — Motor Vehicle
Complete this section for motor vehicle transfers:
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Year: | [____] |
| Make: | [________________________________] |
| Model: | [________________________________] |
| Trim / Style: | [________________________________] |
| Body Type: | [________________________________] |
| Color (Exterior): | [________________________________] |
| Color (Interior): | [________________________________] |
| Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): | [________________________________] |
| Engine Number: | [________________________________] |
| Transmission Type: | ☐ Automatic ☐ Manual ☐ CVT ☐ Other: [____] |
| Fuel Type: | ☐ Gasoline ☐ Diesel ☐ Hybrid ☐ Electric ☐ Other: [____] |
| Drive Type: | ☐ FWD ☐ RWD ☐ AWD ☐ 4WD |
| License Plate Number: | [________________________________] |
| Current Title Number: | [________________________________] |
| Title State of Issuance: | [________________________________] |
Odometer Reading at Time of Sale: [________________________________] miles
Odometer Disclosure (Required by 49 U.S.C. § 32705 and COMAR 11.13.06.03):
☐ The odometer reading stated above reflects the actual mileage of the vehicle.
☐ The odometer reading stated above reflects the amount of mileage in excess of the odometer's designed mechanical odometer limit of 99,999 miles.
☐ The odometer reading is NOT the actual mileage. WARNING — ODOMETER DISCREPANCY.
Note: Federal and Maryland law (COMAR 11.13.06.03) require odometer disclosure for all vehicles of model year 2011 or newer. Failure to provide a complete and truthful odometer disclosure statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment.
Vehicle Condition:
☐ New ☐ Used — Excellent ☐ Used — Good ☐ Used — Fair ☐ Used — Poor ☐ Salvage / Rebuilt
Known Defects or Damage (Seller must disclose):
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
Accessories and Equipment Included in Sale:
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
Section 4.2 — Watercraft / Vessel
Complete this section for watercraft or vessel transfers:
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Year Built: | [____] |
| Manufacturer: | [________________________________] |
| Model: | [________________________________] |
| Hull Identification Number (HIN): | [________________________________] |
| Length Overall: | [________________________________] feet |
| Beam: | [________________________________] feet |
| Hull Material: | ☐ Fiberglass ☐ Aluminum ☐ Wood ☐ Steel ☐ Inflatable ☐ Other: [____] |
| Hull Type: | ☐ Monohull ☐ Catamaran ☐ Pontoon ☐ Other: [____] |
| Propulsion: | ☐ Inboard ☐ Outboard ☐ Sterndrive ☐ Jet ☐ Sail ☐ None |
| Engine Make / Model: | [________________________________] |
| Engine Horsepower: | [________________________________] HP |
| Engine Serial Number: | [________________________________] |
| Fuel Type: | ☐ Gasoline ☐ Diesel ☐ Electric ☐ None |
| Current MD Registration Number: | [________________________________] |
| USCG Documentation Number (if applicable): | [________________________________] |
| Current Title Number: | [________________________________] |
Trailer Information (if included):
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Year: | [____] |
| Make: | [________________________________] |
| VIN: | [________________________________] |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: | [________________________________] lbs |
Marine Equipment and Accessories Included:
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
Section 4.3 — General Personal Property
Complete this section for all other personal property transfers:
Description of Property:
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
Serial Number(s) / Identification Number(s): [________________________________]
Condition: ☐ New ☐ Used — Excellent ☐ Used — Good ☐ Used — Fair ☐ Used — Poor
Known Defects or Issues:
[________________________________]
Accessories, Components, or Items Included:
[________________________________]
ARTICLE V — PURCHASE PRICE AND PAYMENT
Section 5.1 — Purchase Price
Total Purchase Price: $[________________________________]
Purchase Price in Words: [________________________________] Dollars
Section 5.2 — Price Relative to Fair Market Value
☐ The Purchase Price represents fair market value of the Property.
☐ The Purchase Price is below fair market value. Estimated Fair Market Value: $[________________________________]
For a vehicle sold below MVA's valuation, the MVA may request documentation supporting the stated sale price. Form VR-181 may be used as a bill of sale; a notarized bill of sale is no longer required for the private sale of a vehicle less than seven years old.
☐ This transfer is a bona fide gift with no monetary consideration.
For a vehicle gift, the MVA may require a gift certification to document the transfer and any available tax exemption. Confirm eligibility and the current form with the MVA.
Section 5.3 — Method of Payment
☐ Cash
☐ Certified Check / Cashier's Check — Check Number: [________________________________]
☐ Personal Check — Check Number: [________________________________]
☐ Wire Transfer — Confirmation Number: [________________________________]
☐ Money Order — Serial Number: [________________________________]
☐ Credit / Debit Card
☐ Trade / Exchange — Description of Trade Property: [________________________________]
☐ Installment Payments (See Section 5.4)
☐ Combination of Methods (describe): [________________________________]
Section 5.4 — Installment Payment Schedule
Complete if payment is to be made in installments:
Down Payment Amount: $[________________________________]
Down Payment Date: [__/__/____]
Remaining Balance: $[________________________________]
Interest Rate (if applicable): [____]% per annum
Total Number of Installment Payments: [____]
| Payment Number | Due Date | Amount | Principal | Interest | Running Balance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | [__/__/____] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] |
| 2 | [__/__/____] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] |
| 3 | [__/__/____] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] |
| 4 | [__/__/____] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] |
| 5 | [__/__/____] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] |
| 6 | [__/__/____] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] | $[________] |
Late Payment Penalty: $[________________________________] or [____]% of the overdue amount
Default Provisions: If Buyer fails to make any scheduled payment within [____] days of the due date, Seller may, at Seller's option, declare the entire remaining balance immediately due and payable.
Section 5.5 — Deposit / Earnest Money
Deposit Amount (if applicable): $[________________________________]
Deposit Date: [__/__/____]
☐ Deposit is refundable if sale does not close by [__/__/____].
☐ Deposit is non-refundable.
ARTICLE VI — WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS
Section 6.1 — Warranty Election
Select the applicable warranty status (check one):
☐ AS-IS SALE — ONLY WHERE LAWFUL
TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY MD. CODE, COM. LAW §§ 2-316 AND 2-316.1, THE SELLER EXCLUDES THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THIS ELECTION DOES NOT LIMIT ANY EXPRESS WARRANTY OR SELLER REPRESENTATION ELSEWHERE IN THIS BILL OF SALE.
For consumer goods, this exclusion is unenforceable unless the used-vehicle exception in § 2-316.1(4) applies. To use that exception, confirm each condition and provide the prescribed notice at the time of sale:
☐ The motor vehicle is required to be titled under the Maryland Transportation Article.
☐ The motor vehicle is over 6 model years old and has been driven more than 60,000 miles.
☐ Seller gave Buyer the notice prescribed under Md. Code, Transp. § 13-119.
For the qualifying used-vehicle exception, complete both separate acknowledgments:
Separate buyer acknowledgment of merchantability exclusion: [BUYER SIGNATURE] ____________________ Date: [__/__/____]
Separate buyer acknowledgment of fitness exclusion: [BUYER SIGNATURE] ____________________ Date: [__/__/____]
☐ LIMITED WARRANTY
The Seller warrants the Property against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of [________________________________] days / months from the date of sale. This limited warranty covers: [________________________________]. This limited warranty does NOT cover: [________________________________]. For breach of this express limited warranty, the Seller may elect to repair or replace the defective component. This election does not exclude or limit any implied warranty or the Buyer's remedies for breach of an implied warranty that Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-316.1 protects in a consumer-goods sale.
☐ EXPRESS WARRANTY
The Seller makes the following express warranties regarding the Property, pursuant to Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-313:
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
[________________________________]
Warranty Duration: [________________________________]
Section 6.2 — Seller's Representations
The Seller represents and warrants that:
(a) The Seller is the lawful owner of the Property and has full legal authority to sell and transfer the Property.
(b) The Property is free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, security interests, and claims of any kind, except as disclosed in Article VII of this Bill of Sale.
(c) There are no pending or threatened legal actions, claims, or proceedings affecting the Property or the Seller's ability to convey the Property.
(d) The Seller has disclosed all known material defects, damage, or conditions affecting the Property.
(e) All information provided by the Seller in this Bill of Sale is true, correct, and complete to the best of the Seller's knowledge.
(f) The Property has not been stolen, is not subject to any hold or seizure, and does not bear any altered or defaced identification numbers.
Section 6.3 — Buyer's Acknowledgments
The Buyer acknowledges that:
(a) The Buyer has had a reasonable opportunity to inspect the Property before executing this Bill of Sale.
(b) The Buyer is purchasing the Property based on the Buyer's own inspection, investigation, and judgment, except to the extent of any express warranties provided herein.
(c) The Buyer understands and accepts the warranty status selected in Section 6.1.
(d) The Buyer is responsible for all applicable taxes, fees, and transfer costs associated with this transaction, unless otherwise agreed herein.
ARTICLE VII — ENCUMBRANCES AND LIENS
Section 7.1 — Lien Disclosure
☐ The Property is free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, and security interests.
☐ The following liens, encumbrances, or security interests exist on the Property:
| Lienholder Name | Lien Type | Amount Owed | Account Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| [________________________________] | [____________] | $[________] | [____________] |
| [________________________________] | [____________] | $[________] | [____________] |
Section 7.2 — Lien Satisfaction
☐ All existing liens will be satisfied by the Seller at or before closing from the sale proceeds.
☐ The Buyer agrees to assume the following existing lien(s): [________________________________]
☐ Lien release documentation will be provided to the Buyer within [____] business days of closing.
Note: Under Md. Code, Transp. § 13-202, a security interest in a vehicle must be recorded with the MVA. The Buyer should verify lien status with the MVA before completing the purchase.
Section 7.3 — Seller's Security Interest (Installment Sales)
If the Buyer is purchasing the Property on installment terms (Article V, Section 5.4), the Seller hereby retains a security interest in the Property until the Purchase Price is paid in full. The Buyer shall cooperate with the filing route applicable to the collateral. For a vehicle subject to Maryland certificate-of-title requirements, the parties shall submit the existing title, the MVA-required application disclosing the security interest, and the filing fee to the MVA under Md. Code, Transp. § 13-202(b). A UCC financing statement alone does not perfect that vehicle interest under Md. Code, Com. Law § 9-311(a). For other collateral, the parties shall determine the applicable perfection route under Commercial Law Title 9.
ARTICLE VIII — VEHICLE-SPECIFIC PROVISIONS (Maryland)
This Article applies only to motor vehicle transactions.
Section 8.1 — Maryland MVA Title Transfer Process
The parties acknowledge and agree to comply with the following Maryland MVA requirements:
(a) Certificate of Title Assignment. The Seller shall properly assign the Certificate of Title to the Buyer by signing and printing the Seller's name, and recording the Buyer's name and address on the back of the Certificate of Title under the "Assignment of Ownership" section, as required by the Maryland MVA.
(b) Application for Certificate of Title. The Buyer shall submit a completed Application for Certificate of Title (MVA Form VR-005) to the Maryland MVA, together with the properly assigned title, a bill of sale if applicable, the required Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate, and applicable fees and taxes.
(c) Private-Party Filing Route. For a private sale, the Buyer may submit the title application and required documents in person at an MVA branch office or by mail to the MVA. The Buyer shall select the filing route and provide the required originals, forms, and fees; use of an ERT agent is not required for every private-party title transfer.
(d) Electronic Lien and Title (ELT). If a lien exists or is being created on the vehicle, the parties acknowledge that the MVA may process lien information electronically through the ELT program, pursuant to Md. Code, Transp. § 13-108.1.
Section 8.2 — Maryland Excise Tax (Titling Tax)
(a) Tax Rate. The Buyer acknowledges responsibility for payment of the Maryland excise tax (titling tax) at the applicable rate, currently 6.5% for non-rental vehicles, on the taxable value determined by the MVA. The MVA may request documentation supporting a reported price below its valuation.
(b) Minimum Tax. The minimum excise tax is based on a $640 minimum purchase price.
(c) Exemptions. The following excise tax exemptions may apply (check all that apply):
☐ Family Transfer Exemption — Vehicle currently titled in Maryland, transferred to spouse, parent, child, grandchild, grandparent, sibling, father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law, or daughter-in-law with no monetary consideration. Transfers from an aunt/uncle over 65 years of age to a niece/nephew are also exempt.
☐ Active Military Exemption — Active service member or service member returning to Maryland from active duty whose vehicle is currently titled in their name.
☐ Other Exemption — Description: [________________________________]
Section 8.3 — Maryland Safety Inspection Requirement
(a) Mandatory Inspection. Under Md. Code, Transp. § 23-107(a), the MVA generally requires a valid inspection certificate before titling and registering a used vehicle, except a Class L historic vehicle. The vehicle must be inspected at a licensed Maryland vehicle safety inspection station.
(b) Inspection Certificate Validity. Under § 23-107(a), an inspection certificate generally remains valid for ninety (90) days from issuance. The inspection-certificate requirement does not apply to a vehicle transferred within thirty (30) days after a certificate was issued and filed in the MVA's title records. Different validity rules apply to a dealer's used-vehicle inventory.
(c) Responsibility. The Parties shall specify who arranges and pays for the safety inspection. Md. Code, Transp. § 23-107 makes the certificate a condition of titling and registration but does not assign that task to the Seller.
☐ Seller will provide a valid Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate.
☐ Buyer accepts responsibility for obtaining the safety inspection. Purchase price has been adjusted accordingly.
(d) Exemptions. A safety inspection is generally not required for transfers between spouses or between parents and children (family transfers). All other gift transfers are subject to inspection requirements.
Safety Inspection Station Name: [________________________________]
Inspection Certificate Number: [________________________________]
Date of Inspection: [__/__/____]
Section 8.4 — MVA Bill of Sale Form VR-181
A notarized bill of sale is no longer required for a private vehicle sale solely because the vehicle is less than seven years old or the reported price is below MVA's valuation. Use Form VR-181 when a bill of sale is requested or helpful to document the price:
☐ The sale price is below MVA's valuation; the parties will provide Form VR-181 or other price-supporting documentation if requested.
☐ The transfer is a gift; the parties will complete any MVA gift certification required for the transfer.
☐ The sale is between family members at below fair market value; the parties will confirm the MVA's current price and gift documentation requirements.
☐ No separate MVA bill of sale or gift certification is requested for this transaction.
Section 8.5 — Odometer Disclosure Statement (MVA Form VR-197)
Pursuant to federal law (49 U.S.C. § 32705) and Maryland regulations (COMAR 11.13.06.03), both the Seller and the Buyer are required to complete and sign an Odometer Disclosure Statement (MVA Form VR-197) for vehicles of model year 2011 or newer. The Seller certifies that the odometer reading set forth in Article IV, Section 4.1 is accurate and truthful.
WARNING: Federal and state law impose fines and/or imprisonment for providing false odometer information. Odometer disclosure is required for all vehicles of model year 2011 or newer for a period of twenty (20) years from the model year.
Section 8.6 — Title and Registration Fees
The Buyer acknowledges responsibility for the following Maryland fees (amounts current as of 2025):
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title Fee (standard vehicle) | $200.00 |
| Title Fee (moped/scooter) | $40.00 |
| Title Fee (off-road vehicle) | $70.00 |
| Title Fee (qualifying gifted trailer ≤ 3,000 lbs) | $100.00 |
| Excise Tax (non-rental vehicle) | 6.5% of purchase price |
| Registration Fee | Varies by vehicle type |
| Lien Recording Fee | Per MVA fee schedule |
Section 8.7 — Emissions Inspection
☐ The vehicle is subject to Maryland emissions testing.
☐ The vehicle is exempt from emissions testing.
County where vehicle will be registered: [________________________________]
Note: Vehicles registered in certain Maryland counties are required to pass emissions inspections. Requirements vary by county and model year.
ARTICLE IX — WATERCRAFT-SPECIFIC PROVISIONS (Maryland)
This Article applies only to watercraft and vessel transactions.
Section 9.1 — Maryland DNR Registration Requirements
(a) Registration Requirement. Maryland law (Md. Code, Nat. Res. §§ 8-701 et seq.) requires registration for all motorized vessels and sailboats over sixteen (16) feet in length operating in Maryland waters, including the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
(b) Registration Timeline. The Buyer must register the vessel with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources within thirty (30) days of the date of purchase.
(c) Registration Form. The Buyer shall submit a completed Maryland DNR Form B-240 (Application for Vessel Title and/or Registration) to the DNR with all required documentation.
Section 9.2 — Vessel Excise Tax
(a) Tax Rate. Maryland imposes a 5% vessel excise tax on the purchase price or fair market value of all vessels.
(b) Maximum Tax. Md. Code, Nat. Res. § 8-716(c)(3) sets a $15,000 base maximum and increases it by $100 on July 1, 2016, and each following July 1. The maximum effective July 1, 2026 is $16,100 per vessel. Confirm the cap in force on the tax date.
(c) Payment Deadline. The excise tax must be paid within thirty (30) days of Maryland tax liability to avoid penalties and interest.
Section 9.3 — Vessel Bill of Sale Requirements
The bill of sale for any vessel transaction in Maryland must include: the names of the buyer and seller, date of sale, seller's signature, amount of sale, and vessel description (year, manufacturer, hull identification number, and/or current registration number). For any missing information in the assignment of title, a certified/notarized bill of sale is mandatory.
Section 9.4 — Chesapeake Bay and Maryland Waters
The parties acknowledge that operation of the vessel in the Chesapeake Bay and Maryland waters is subject to all applicable Maryland boating safety regulations, U.S. Coast Guard requirements, and local ordinances. The Buyer is responsible for ensuring the vessel meets all applicable safety equipment and operational requirements.
ARTICLE X — INDEMNIFICATION
10.1 Seller's Indemnification. The Seller shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Buyer from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising out of or related to:
(a) Any breach of the Seller's representations or warranties contained in this Bill of Sale;
(b) Any undisclosed liens, encumbrances, or claims against the Property existing as of the date of sale;
(c) Any use, operation, or ownership of the Property by the Seller prior to the Effective Date; and
(d) Any failure of the Seller to comply with applicable Maryland laws regarding the transfer of the Property.
10.2 Buyer's Indemnification. The Buyer shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Seller from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising out of or related to:
(a) The Buyer's use, operation, or ownership of the Property after the Effective Date;
(b) Any failure of the Buyer to properly register, title, or insure the Property after the transfer; and
(c) Any tax liability or penalties resulting from the Buyer's failure to timely pay applicable excise taxes or other transfer taxes.
10.3 Survival. The indemnification obligations set forth in this Article shall survive the execution of this Bill of Sale and the transfer of the Property.
ARTICLE XI — DISPUTE RESOLUTION
11.1 Governing Law. This Bill of Sale shall be governed by and construed in accordance with applicable Maryland law, without regard to conflict of law principles.
11.2 Dispute Resolution Method. In the event of any dispute arising out of or related to this Bill of Sale, the parties agree to the following resolution procedure (select one):
☐ Mediation First, Then Litigation. The parties shall first attempt to resolve the dispute through mediation administered by a mutually agreed-upon mediator in the State of Maryland. If mediation does not resolve the dispute within sixty (60) days, either party may proceed to litigation.
☐ Binding Arbitration. The parties agree to submit the dispute to binding arbitration in the State of Maryland, conducted in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association. The decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding and may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction.
☐ Direct Litigation. Either party may file suit directly in the courts specified in Section 11.3.
11.3 Jurisdiction and Venue. The parties agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the State of Maryland. Venue shall be proper in:
☐ The Circuit Court for [________________________________] County, Maryland
☐ The District Court of Maryland sitting in [________________________________]
☐ The United States District Court for the District of Maryland
11.4 Attorneys' Fees. In any legal action or proceeding to enforce this Bill of Sale, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees and costs from the non-prevailing party.
11.5 Consumer Protection Remedies. Nothing in this Article limits rights or remedies the Buyer may have under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act if that Act applies to the Seller and transaction.
ARTICLE XII — GENERAL PROVISIONS
12.1 Entire Agreement. This Bill of Sale constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the sale and transfer of the Property and supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, warranties, commitments, offers, contracts, and writings of any nature relating to the subject matter hereof.
12.2 Amendments. This Bill of Sale may not be amended, modified, or supplemented except by a written instrument signed by both parties.
12.3 Severability. If any provision of this Bill of Sale is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.
12.4 Waiver. The failure of either party to enforce any provision of this Bill of Sale shall not constitute a waiver of that party's right to enforce that provision or any other provision in the future.
12.5 Binding Effect. This Bill of Sale shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns.
12.6 Counterparts. This Bill of Sale may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
12.7 Notices. All notices required or permitted under this Bill of Sale shall be in writing and shall be deemed delivered when personally delivered, or three (3) business days after being sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the addresses set forth in Article II.
12.8 Time is of the Essence. Time is of the essence with respect to all dates, deadlines, and time periods set forth in this Bill of Sale.
12.9 Further Assurances. Each party agrees to execute and deliver such additional documents and to take such further actions as may be reasonably necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Bill of Sale, including the execution of MVA Form VR-181, MVA Form VR-005, Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form VR-197), DNR Form B-240, and any other governmental forms required to complete the transfer.
12.10 Headings. The section headings in this Bill of Sale are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the interpretation of any provision hereof.
ARTICLE XIII — MARYLAND-SPECIFIC LEGAL PROVISIONS
Section 13.1 — Maryland Consumer Protection Act
The Maryland Consumer Protection Act may apply when the Seller and transaction fall within its terms; a private sale is not declared covered merely by using this form. Regardless of statutory coverage, Seller contractually represents that Seller has not:
(a) Making false or misleading oral or written statements regarding the Property;
(b) Misrepresenting the character, nature, quality, or origin of the Property;
(c) Using deception, fraud, false pretense, or misrepresentation in connection with this sale;
(d) Suppressing material facts with intent to mislead the Buyer; and
(e) Concealing or failing to disclose known defects in the Property.
Section 13.2 — Maryland Lemon Law (Automotive Warranty Enforcement Act)
(a) For new vehicles with manufacturer warranties: The parties acknowledge that Maryland's Automotive Warranty Enforcement Act (Md. Code, Com. Law §§ 14-1501 through 14-1504) applies to new or leased vehicles registered in Maryland that are less than twenty-four (24) months old with fewer than 18,000 miles. Violations of the Lemon Law are considered unfair or deceptive trade practices under Title 13 of the Commercial Law Article.
(b) For used vehicles: The Maryland Lemon Law does NOT apply to used vehicles. However, if a manufacturer's warranty (original or extended) still applies, the Buyer may have rights under the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (15 U.S.C. §§ 2301-2312).
Section 13.3 — Maryland MVA Regulatory Compliance
The parties shall comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, including but not limited to:
(a) COMAR Title 11, Subtitle 15 (Vehicle Registration);
(b) COMAR Title 11, Subtitle 13 (Odometer Disclosure);
(c) COMAR Title 11, Subtitle 22 (Vehicle Safety Inspections);
(d) All applicable MVA bulletins and policy updates.
Section 13.4 — Maryland Tax Compliance
The Buyer acknowledges that failure to timely pay the applicable Maryland excise tax may result in penalties and interest. The Buyer is responsible for verifying the current tax rate and any applicable exemptions with the Maryland Comptroller's Office or the MVA at the time of transfer.
Section 13.5 — Flood and Salvage Title Disclosure
The Seller certifies that:
☐ The vehicle has never been issued a salvage, rebuilt, or flood title in any state.
☐ The vehicle has been issued the following branded title: [________________________________]
Note: Confirm branded title history through the title records and disclose it accurately. A false statement may give rise to applicable remedies; Consumer Protection Act coverage depends on the Seller and transaction.
ARTICLE XIV — SIGNATURE BLOCKS
IMPORTANT: By signing below, each party acknowledges that they have read and understood this entire Bill of Sale and agree to be bound by its terms.
Seller's Signature
Seller Printed Name: [________________________________]
Signature: ________________________________________
Date Signed: [__/__/____]
Co-Seller Printed Name (if applicable): [________________________________]
Co-Seller Signature: ________________________________________
Date Signed: [__/__/____]
Buyer's Signature
Buyer Printed Name: [________________________________]
Signature: ________________________________________
Date Signed: [__/__/____]
Co-Buyer Printed Name (if applicable): [________________________________]
Co-Buyer Signature: ________________________________________
Date Signed: [__/__/____]
ARTICLE XV — WITNESS ATTESTATION
Witnesses are recommended but not required under Maryland law for standard private sales. Witnesses may provide evidentiary support in the event of a dispute.
Witness 1:
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Signature: ________________________________________
Address: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
Witness 2:
Printed Name: [________________________________]
Signature: ________________________________________
Address: [________________________________]
Date: [__/__/____]
ARTICLE XVI — NOTARY ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Complete this optional acknowledgment only if the receiving agency requires notarization for this particular transfer.
State of Maryland
County of [________________________________]
On this [____] day of [________________________________], 20[____], before me, the undersigned Notary Public, personally appeared:
Seller: [________________________________]
☐ Personally known to me, OR
☐ Proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence (type of identification: [________________________________])
to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument, the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.
AND
Buyer: [________________________________]
☐ Personally known to me, OR
☐ Proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence (type of identification: [________________________________])
to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies).
Notary Public Signature: ________________________________________
Notary Printed Name: [________________________________]
My Commission Expires: [__/__/____]
Notary Seal / Stamp:
[AFFIX NOTARY SEAL HERE]
SOURCES AND REFERENCES
Maryland Statutory Authority
- Maryland Uniform Commercial Code — Sale of Goods: Md. Code, Com. Law §§ 2-101 through 2-725
- Warranty of Title: Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-312
- Express Warranties: Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-313
- Implied Warranty of Merchantability: Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-314
- Implied Warranty of Fitness: Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-315
- Warranty Exclusion/Modification: Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-316
- Consumer Protection Act: Md. Code, Com. Law §§ 13-101 through 13-501
- Unfair/Deceptive Trade Practices: Md. Code, Com. Law § 13-301
- Lemon Law (Automotive Warranty Enforcement Act): Md. Code, Com. Law §§ 14-1501 through 14-1504
- Secured Transactions (UCC Article 9): Md. Code, Com. Law § 9-101 et seq.
- Vehicle Certificates of Title: Md. Code, Transp. §§ 13-101 through 13-118
- Electronic Issuance of Title: Md. Code, Transp. § 13-108.1
- Vehicle Security Interests: Md. Code, Transp. § 13-202
- Vehicle Safety Inspections: Md. Code, Transp. § 23-107
- Vessel Registration and Titling: Md. Code, Nat. Res. §§ 8-701 through 8-729
- Federal Odometer Disclosure: 49 U.S.C. § 32705
- Maryland Odometer Disclosure Certification: COMAR 11.13.06.03
- Title and Registration Requirements: COMAR 11.15.32.07
Maryland MVA Forms and Resources
- MVA Form VR-005 — Application for Certificate of Title
- MVA Form VR-181 — Bill of Sale
- MVA Form VR-197 — Odometer Disclosure Statement
- MVA Form VR-217 — Security Interest Filing Statement
- MVA Form VR-315 — Buying a Vehicle in Maryland Guide
- Maryland MVA: https://mva.maryland.gov
- MVA Title and Registration Information: https://mva.maryland.gov/vehicles/Pages/registration/title-registration-info.aspx
- MVA Electronic Registration and Titling (ERT): https://mva.maryland.gov/businesses/Pages/ert.aspx
Maryland DNR Resources (Watercraft)
- DNR Form B-240 — Application for Vessel Title and/or Registration
- DNR Boat Registration: https://dnr.maryland.gov/boating/pages/registration.aspx
Federal Resources
- Federal Odometer Act: 49 U.S.C. §§ 32701-32711
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: 15 U.S.C. §§ 2301-2312
This template is provided by ezel.ai for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Maryland attorney before executing any legal document. Laws, regulations, tax rates, and MVA procedures are subject to change. Verify all information with the Maryland MVA, DNR, and applicable government agencies before use. Last updated: 2026-02-21.
About this template
- Last updated
- October 28, 2026
- Jurisdiction
- Maryland
- Category
- Contracts & Agreements
Legal authority
- Md. Code, Com. Law §§ 2-101 through 2-725 (UCC Article 2 — Sale of Goods)
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-312 (Warranty of Title)
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-313 (Express Warranties)
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-314 (Implied Warranty of Merchantability)
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-315 (Implied Warranty of Fitness for Particular Purpose)
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-316 (Exclusion or Modification of Warranties)
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-316.1 (Consumer-goods warranty disclaimers and used-vehicle exception)
- Md. Code, Com. Law §§ 13-101 through 13-501 (Consumer Protection Act)
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 13-301 (Unfair, Abusive, or Deceptive Trade Practices)
- Md. Code, Com. Law §§ 14-1501 through 14-1504 (Automotive Warranty Enforcement Act — Lemon Law)
- Md. Code, Com. Law § 9-101 et seq. (UCC Article 9 — Secured Transactions)
- Md. Code, Transp. §§ 13-101 through 13-118 (Certificates of Title)
- Md. Code, Transp. § 13-108.1 (Electronic Issuance of Certificate of Title)
- Md. Code, Transp. § 13-202 (Security Interests in Vehicles)
- Md. Code, Transp. § 23-107 (Inspection Certificate for Used Vehicles)
- Md. Code, Nat. Res. §§ 8-701 through 8-729 (Vessel Registration and Titling)
- 49 U.S.C. § 32705 (Federal Odometer Disclosure Requirements)
- COMAR 11.13.06.03 (Maryland Odometer Disclosure Certification)
- COMAR 11.15.32.07 (Title and Registration Requirements)
A contract is a written record of what two or more parties agreed to and what happens if someone does not follow through. Clear language, defined terms, and clean signature blocks keep disputes small and enforceable. The most common mistakes in contracts come from vague promises, missing details about timing or payment, and skipping standard protective clauses like governing law and dispute resolution.
Not legal advice
This template is provided for informational purposes. We recommend having an attorney review any legal document before signing, especially for high-value or complex matters.
Checked against the law it cites
The statutes this template relies on are listed under Legal authority.
Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-316(1) (checked October 25, 2026): "Words or conduct relevant to the creation of an express warranty and words or conduct tending to negate or limit warranty shall be construed wherever reasonable as consistent with each other; but ... negation or limitation is inoperative to the extent that such construction is unreasonable."
Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-316(3)(a) (checked October 25, 2026): "all implied warranties are excluded by expressions like 'as is,' 'with all faults' or other language which in common understanding calls the buyer's attention to the exclusion of warranties and makes plain that there is no implied warranty"
Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-316.1(1)-(2) (checked October 26, 2026): "Any oral or written language used by a seller of consumer goods and services, which attempts to exclude or modify any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or to exclude or modify the consumer’s remedies for breach of those warranties, is unenforceable."
Md. Code, Com. Law § 2-509(3)-(4) (checked October 26, 2026): "In any case not within subsection (1) or (2), the risk of loss passes to the buyer on his receipt of the goods if the seller is a merchant; otherwise the risk passes to the buyer on tender of delivery. The provisions of this section are subject to contrary agreement of the parties"
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