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An Arkansas Bill of Sale is a legal form used to record the sale of a vehicle, boat, firearm or other type of personal property. It includes details such as the names of the buyer and seller and the sale price. If Arkansas state authorities need proof of ownership for registration or tax filings, a Bill of Sale may also be useful.
Last Update March 4th, 2026
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An Arkansas Bill of Sale is an important legal document typically used when purchasing various items, including vehicles, boats, firearms, and other personal property.
This document serves as proof that a transaction has taken place, detailing the agreed-upon terms and conditions.
An Arkansas Bill of Sale typically includes details such as the full names and addresses of both parties, a description of the item being sold, the sale price, and any warranties or conditions attached to the sale.
In many cases, it’s a necessary document for registering vehicles and boats with the state, making it an important part of any significant purchase or sale in Arkansas.
Reviewing our sample Arkansas Bill of Sale is a good way to make sure your document includes all the necessary details.
To avoid any legal issues, consider having a legal professional review your bill of sale before signing it.
In Arkansas, the type of Bill of Sale you use varies depending on the item being sold. Each type is tailored to meet the specific legal requirements and practical considerations of different kinds of property.
Using the appropriate Bill of Sale ensures that the transaction complies with Arkansas state law and that all necessary details are accurately recorded, preventing any potential disputes or legal issues in the future.
Common types of Bills of Sale used in Arkansas include:
A General Bill of Sale in Arkansas transfers ownership of personal property that doesn't require a specialized bill of sale, such as furniture, electronics, or other household items.
This document provides legal protection for both parties by clearly recording the transaction details.
When drafting your document, you should include the following details:
This ensures the transaction is properly documented and legally binding.
A Car or Vehicle Bill of Sale in Arkansas is used when transferring ownership of motor vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
This Bill of Sale is often required when registering the vehicle with the state and provides essential details that protect both the buyer and seller.
The document should include specific information such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, year, and odometer reading, alongside the names and addresses of both parties.
A completed bill of sale provides evidence of ownership for the DMV.
Once you’ve completed the sale of a vehicle, the next important step is registering it with the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
You can register your new vehicle online by providing the necessary documents.
You'll need the following:
Depending on your situation, you may also need a Personal Property Tax Number (PPAN) from your county assessor, a Lien Contract or Security Agreement, a current year County Tax Assessment, and proof of paid tax receipt.
If you’ve bought a vehicle that you intend to dismantle, you must notify the Arkansas Office of Motor Vehicle and submit the title. If it’s over 25 years old, you can present the Bill of Sale instead.
When purchasing a firearm in Arkansas, you should use a Firearm Bill of Sale to document the transaction.
Use this form to track the transfer of specific serial numbers and calibers, which can be important for legal and personal records.
A Firearm Bill of Sale generally includes:
In Arkansas, there’s no requirement to register firearms at the state level. However, it’s essential to ensure that the buyer is legally permitted to own a firearm.
While Arkansas does not maintain a firearm registry, federal laws still apply, especially for transactions across state lines.
A Boat Bill of Sale in Arkansas is a legal document used when purchasing a boat or vessel. This document is important for both parties, as it provides proof of the transaction and details about the boat being sold.
You should include the following details in your Arkansas Bill of Sale:
To operate a motorboat on Arkansas public waters, you must register it with the Office of Motor Vehicle.
This applies to boats powered by sail or motor, including trolling motors. You’re not required to register non-motorized vessels, boats registered in another state for less than 90 days, and those documented by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Registration must be completed within 30 days of purchase at a state revenue office. You'll need:
Registration fees depend on boat size and are valid for 3 years. The registration number and decals must be properly displayed on the forward half of the boat.
A Trailer Bill of Sale in Arkansas is a legal document used to legitimize the sale and transfer of ownership of a trailer between a buyer and a seller.
It typically includes the full names and addresses of both parties, along with detailed information about the trailer, such as its:
The document also records the agreed-upon sale price and the date the transaction is completed.
In Arkansas, you have two options for registering your trailer: by mail or in person. Depending on where you live, you'll need to reach out to your local revenue collector or the Department of Finance and Administration to get started.
You must complete your trailer registration within 30 days of purchase to avoid penalties, such as fines. While it’s required to register your trailer, Arkansas law does not require trailers to be titled. This requirement applies only to motorized vehicles.
Though a relatively simple document to draft, you may still have some doubts regarding the use of Bills of Sale in Arkansas. Here, our experts have answered some of the most common questions regarding this document.
While not always necessary, an Arkansas Bill of Sale is often required when registering a vehicle, especially if the title is not fully completed or if the seller is applying for a sales tax credit.
In most cases, a Bill of Sale in Arkansas does not need to be notarized. However, notarization may add an extra layer of legal protection, especially for higher-value transactions.
A bill of sale should be completed at the time of the transaction to ensure all details are accurately recorded. For vehicle and boat sales, registration with the state must typically be completed within 30 days of the sale, making it important to finalize the Bill of Sale promptly.
Typically, the buyer should keep the original Bill of Sale as proof of ownership and for registration purposes. However, it is also important for the seller to retain a copy for their records.
Keeping a copy helps the seller document the transaction and protect themselves in case any future legal issues arise regarding the sale.
