MV-912 Form – The MV-912 form is the official Standard Vehicle Bill of Sale Form issued by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV). It serves as a legal document to record the private sale or transfer of a motor vehicle, boat, snowmobile, or ATV in New York. This one-page PDF form provides proof of ownership transfer between a seller and buyer, which is essential for titling, registering the vehicle, and handling sales tax obligations.
Designed for simplicity and compliance, the MV-912 ensures all required details of the transaction are clearly documented. The current version (revised 11/21) remains the standard form recommended and accepted by the NY DMV as of 2026.
Why Is the MV-912 Vehicle Bill of Sale Required in New York?
In New York, a completed bill of sale is mandatory for most private vehicle transfers. The NY DMV requires both the seller and buyer to sign the MV-912 (even for gifts with $0 consideration) to prove the transaction occurred. Without it—or an acceptable equivalent—the buyer cannot successfully title or register the vehicle.
Key reasons to use the MV-912 include:
- Proof of ownership transfer for DMV processing.
- Sales tax documentation (combined with Form DTF-802 when needed).
- Protection for both parties against future disputes.
- Compliance with state law for private sales, gifts, or transfers below fair market value.
An acceptable bill of sale must include the vehicle year and make, VIN (or hull ID), sale date, purchase price, and signatures of buyer and seller.
Key Fields and Sections on the MV-912 Form
The MV-912 is a straightforward, fillable PDF. Users must clearly print or type all information except signatures. Here’s what the official form includes:
- Seller’s Statement: “I, [Seller Name], in consideration of $ [Amount], do hereby sell, transfer and convey to [Buyer Name] the following vehicle.”
- Vehicle Description: Year, Make, Model, and Vehicle or Hull Identification Number (VIN/HIN).
- Terms and Conditions (optional): Space for any additional agreements between buyer and seller.
- Seller Information: Name, address (optional), signature, and date.
- Buyer Information: Name, address (optional), signature, and date.
The form does not include an odometer reading field (that disclosure appears on the vehicle title for qualifying vehicles). Always keep the original signed copy for DMV submission and make photocopies for personal records.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out the MV-912 Form?
Filling out the MV-912 correctly prevents DMV delays. Follow these steps:
- Download the official PDF from the NY DMV website.
- Enter vehicle details: Accurately list the year, make, model, and full VIN/HIN.
- Record the sale price: Use the exact amount paid (or $0 for gifts). Clearly note if it is a gift.
- Add terms if applicable: Include any warranties, “as-is” disclaimers, or special conditions.
- Complete party information: Print full legal names and optional addresses for both seller and buyer.
- Sign and date: Both parties must sign and date in ink (no electronic signatures accepted for DMV processing).
- Make copies: Provide the original to the buyer for DMV submission.
Pro tip: Use black ink and avoid alterations after signing. For gifts or low-value sales, also complete Section 6 of Form DTF-802.
Where to Download the Official MV-912 PDF
The most reliable source for the MV-912 Vehicle Bill of Sale PDF is the official New York DMV website. Download it directly here:
https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv912.pdf
This free, printable form is always up-to-date and accepted by every NY DMV office. Avoid third-party templates unless they exactly match the official version, as the DMV may reject incomplete or non-compliant documents.
Who Needs the MV-912 Form for Vehicle Transactions?
- Private sellers and buyers in New York (cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles).
- Gift transfers between family or friends.
- Sales below fair market value.
- Out-of-state buyers (though out-of-state dealers use different forms).
Note: Dealership sales use different documentation. The MV-912 is strictly for private-party transactions.
Legal Requirements and Best Practices for NY Vehicle Sales
The NY DMV accepts the MV-912 as primary proof of transfer. The buyer must submit the original bill of sale when applying for a new title and registration (Form MV-82). Both parties should retain copies for tax records and dispute resolution.
Additional requirements often paired with MV-912:
- Signed title certificate (seller completes transfer section).
- Odometer disclosure on the title (for vehicles 2011 model year or newer, 20 years old or less).
- Form DTF-802 for sales tax or gift declarations.
Always verify current rules on the official NY DMV website, as requirements can evolve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with the MV-912 Form
- Leaving fields blank (especially VIN or price).
- Using handwritten illegible information.
- Forgetting both signatures and dates.
- Submitting photocopies instead of the original to the DMV.
- Not indicating “gift” or $0 when applicable.
Double-check everything before signing to ensure a smooth title transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions About the MV-912 Form
Is the MV-912 form mandatory?
Yes, for private vehicle sales in New York. The DMV requires it (or equivalent proof) for ownership transfer.
Can I create my own bill of sale instead of using MV-912?
Yes, as long as it contains all required information (year/make, VIN, date, price, signatures). However, using the official MV-912 is safest and fastest.
Does the MV-912 need to be notarized?
No, notarization is not required by the NY DMV.
What if the vehicle is a gift?
Write “gift” and $0 on the MV-912. The seller may also need to complete Section 6 of Form DTF-802.
Where do I submit the completed MV-912?
The buyer submits the original to a local NY DMV office along with the title and registration application.
Final Thoughts on Using the MV-912 Standard Vehicle Bill of Sale
The MV-912 form is the gold standard for private vehicle transactions in New York. By using the official PDF from the NY DMV, sellers and buyers ensure compliance, protect themselves legally, and speed up the title transfer process. Always download the latest version directly from dmv.ny.gov and follow the guidelines above for a hassle-free experience.
For the most current instructions, visit the official NY DMV page on buying, selling, or transferring vehicle ownership. Safe travels and smooth selling!