REG 135 Form – The REG 135 Form is the official Bill of Sale issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for documenting the private sale, transfer, or gift of a vehicle or vessel. This one-page form serves as legal proof of ownership transfer between a seller and buyer in California.
Whether you’re buying or selling a car, truck, motorcycle, or boat, the REG 135 helps establish a clear chain of ownership. California DMV accepts this form (or any equivalent bill of sale that properly identifies the vehicle/vessel) when processing title transfers and registrations.
Key fact: The current version is REV. 2/2007, and the official PDF remains available directly from the DMV website as of 2026.
Why You Need a REG 135 Bill of Sale Vehicle Form in California?
A completed REG 135 Form protects both parties during a private-party vehicle transaction. It:
- Documents the exact sale price (or gift value and relationship)
- Records vehicle identification details (VIN, year, make, model, license plate/CF#, engine number if applicable)
- Provides proof for DMV registration, use tax calculation, and smog compliance
- Helps avoid disputes over ownership history
Important note: While not always mandatory for every transaction (e.g., dealer-to-buyer sales with properly endorsed title), the DMV strongly recommends using an official bill of sale like REG 135 for private sales to create a complete ownership chain.
Buyers must submit the bill of sale along with the signed title when registering the vehicle within 10 days of purchase to avoid penalties.
Free REG 135 Form PDF Download (Official California DMV Link)
✅ Direct official download:
Download REG 135 Bill of Sale PDF
This is the free, printable, fillable version hosted by the California DMV. Do not use third-party sites that may charge fees or provide outdated versions. The form is available exclusively on the DMV website and is not stocked at field offices.
Pro tip: Download and print two copies — one for the buyer and one for the seller.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out the REG 135 Form?
Filling out the REG 135 is straightforward. Follow these steps exactly:
- Vehicle/Vessel Description
Enter: Year, Model, Make, Identification Number (VIN or Hull ID), License Plate/CF #, and Motorcycle Engine # (if applicable). - Seller Information
Print the seller’s full name(s), mailing address, city, state, ZIP code, daytime phone number, and driver’s license/ID or dealer number. - Buyer Information
Print the buyer’s full name(s), mailing address, city, state, ZIP code, daytime phone number, and driver’s license/ID or dealer number. - Sale Details
Enter the date of sale (month/day/year) and the selling price in dollars.
If it’s a gift: Indicate the relationship (e.g., spouse, parent, friend) and list the gift value. - Signatures
Both seller and buyer must:- Print their names
- Sign and date the form
- Provide DL/ID or dealer number
The seller certifies the information “under penalty of perjury” under California law.
Pro tip: Cut along the dotted line after completion so both parties keep an identical copy.
California Vehicle Bill of Sale Requirements and Legal Notes
- No notarization required — The form does not need a notary or witness.
- Seller’s responsibility — The seller must also file a Notice of Release of Liability (REG 138) within 5 days to avoid liability for future incidents.
- Buyer’s responsibility — Submit the REG 135, signed title, Application for Title or Registration (REG 343), and fees to the DMV within 10 days.
- Odometer disclosure — Not required on REG 135 for vessels, but ensure it appears on the title if applicable for vehicles.
Any bill of sale that clearly identifies the vehicle/vessel is acceptable, but using the official REG 135 ensures compliance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with REG 135 Form
- Leaving vehicle identification fields blank
- Forgetting to indicate gift relationship when no money changes hands
- Using photocopies or third-party templates instead of the official DMV PDF
- Failing to make copies for both parties
- Submitting incomplete forms to the DMV
Double-check all information matches the vehicle title exactly.
Frequently Asked Questions About REG 135 Bill of Sale
Is the REG 135 form required for every vehicle sale in California?
No. It is not required for licensed dealer sales when the title is properly endorsed, but it is highly recommended for private party transfers.
Can I use my own bill of sale instead of REG 135?
Yes. California DMV accepts any bill of sale that properly identifies the vehicle or vessel, but the official REG 135 is the easiest and most reliable option.
Do I need to file the REG 135 with the DMV?
The buyer submits it as supporting documentation when applying for registration. Keep your copy for records.
Is the form fillable online?
The official PDF can be filled out digitally before printing or completed by hand.
Related California DMV Forms You May Need
- REG 138 – Notice of Release of Liability
- REG 343 – Application for Title or Registration
- REG 256 – Statement of Facts (for additional explanations)
All are available free on the official California DMV Forms page.
Download Your REG 135 Form Today and Complete Your Vehicle Transfer Legally
Don’t risk delays or disputes — use the official REG 135 Bill of Sale for your California vehicle or vessel transaction. The form is free, simple, and accepted statewide.
Official Download Link:
REG 135 Form PDF – California DMV
Always verify the latest version directly on dmv.ca.gov before use. Safe travels and smooth ownership transfers!