What document must be provided to a buyer upon sale of a vehicle?

When dealing with the sale of a vehicle, it is essential for the seller to provide the buyer with both a signed title and a bill of sale. The signed title is the legal document that proves ownership of the vehicle; without it, the buyer cannot officially register the vehicle in their name. The bill of sale acts as a receipt for the transaction, detailing the sale price, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the parties involved in the transaction. Together, these documents fulfill the legal requirements for transferring ownership and ensure that the buyer has the necessary paperwork to register the vehicle with the state.

While other documents may provide additional information or benefits—such as a warranty agreement that offers coverage for repairs, a vehicle history report that outlines past accidents or issues, or a maintenance schedule detailing regular upkeep—they are not mandatory for the transfer of ownership. Providing the signed title and bill of sale is the critical legal step that guarantees the buyer's ownership rights.