A bill of sale is one of the most important pieces of paperwork in the car-buying process, but one that many forget when buying a used car outside of a dealership. In Alaska, a car bill of sale is not valid as proof of ownership transfer, but is still worthwhile to fill out in case the buyer receives a parking ticket or is pulled over. Here’s what else you need to know about the Alaska bill of sale document:

What’s on the Vehicle Bill of Sale?

Each state has its own rules regarding the information that needs to be one the vehicle bill of sale. The Alaska bill of sale must include:

• Name of buyer
• Complete address of buyer. Must be street address; a P.O. box is not

  acceptable.

• Date of sale
• Complete vehicle description, including vehicle identification

  number (VIN), make, model, year, series number, and body type.

• Name of seller
• Complete address of seller; P.O. box is not acceptable.
• Vehicle odometer reading at time of sale.
• Signature of seller or authorized representative.
• Notary public seal identifying the seller and his signature.

Why Would I Need a Vehicle Bill of Sale?

A vehicle bill of sale serves as a legal receipt from the buyer to the seller documenting both the change in ownership and the purchase price. An invoice will not count. Even though it cannot be used as proof of ownership transfer, it’s important to have it on record because of the information it contains. For example, Federal law prohibits the transferring of the title if the assignment, including the odometer statement, has not been completed. The Alaska bill of sale can then be used to complete the assignment. It’s also an important legal document in case the sale doesn’t work out.

Can I Use My Own Car Bill of Sale?

Although most states will provide a car bill of sale for you at the local motor vehicle department, you are allowed to use a generic car bill of sale form in Alaska. As long as it includes the information above and is notarized, then it’s okay.

At a Dealership

If you’re purchasing your car at a dealership, then you don’t need to worry about the Alaska bill of sale. The dealership should provide one for you and advise you on what you need to do, if you do need to do anything extra. Most of this information pertains to those who purchase their vehicles outside of a dealership.