Lost registration
An Alberta registry agent can usually provide a copy. Call us before booking.
Paperwork made clear
Alberta Vehicle Bill of Sale: A Plain-Language Guide for Sellers
What the document records, what to check before signing and what to do after your vehicle leaves.
What Is a Bill of Sale?
It is the written record of who sold a vehicle, who bought it, what it was, when it changed hands and the price. Keep your copy as proof of the sale.
It records the sale date, price and condition, supports registration and insurance changes, and helps resolve later questions about the vehicle. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Check the Government of Alberta’s standard bill of sale page or ask a registry agent for official requirements.
Alberta’s Standard Bill of Sale for Private Sales
For a private vehicle sale, the standard form records these required details:
- Full names and addresses of buyer and seller
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Make, model or series, style, colour and year
- Sale price
- Buyer and seller signatures
The province also recommends the odometer reading, contact and identification details, witnesses, liens, payment terms, previous registration location and any special conditions. Automotive businesses provide different, more detailed sale paperwork.
When You Sell to Cash 4 Junk Vehicles
Our driver brings the paperwork. We check your registration and photo ID, confirm the VIN, complete the date, price and condition, and sign with you. You receive your copy and payment before loading. For company vehicles, we can also provide a receipt or invoice.
Check these details before signing
- VIN matches the registration and vehicle
- Names and addresses are accurate
- Date and price are filled in; never sign a blank form
- Condition is described accurately, such as sold as-is or for parts
- Odometer reading is recorded if available
- You receive your own copy before the vehicle leaves
After the Sale: Your Checklist
- Remove your licence plate before the vehicle leaves. Alberta plates stay with the owner.
- Visit a registry agent to transfer the plate or cancel the registration. Ask about any refund of unused fees.
- Call your insurer to cancel or move coverage.
- Keep your bill of sale with your important papers for at least a few years.
- Cancel roadside assistance, connected-car apps and parking permits tied to the vehicle.
Special Situations
Vehicle with a loan
Ask your lender for a payout statement and lien discharge. A registered lien must be cleared before ownership transfers.
Leased vehicle
The leasing company owns it. Ask the company about a buyout first.
Selling for someone else
Bring written authorization or a power of attorney covering the sale.
Estate vehicle
The executor needs documents showing authority to sell estate property.
Company vehicle
Registration must match the company, and the signer needs authority to sell its assets.
Written-off vehicle
Confirm you still own it after an insurance payout and disclose salvage or non-repairable status.
Questions About Your Paperwork?
Call (780) 236-0089 before booking. You can also read our FAQ or request a quote.