Illinois Golf Cart Bill of Sale

How to sell a golf cart in Illinois

A golf cart bill of sale records the make, model, serial number and whether the cart is gas or electric, plus the price and date. Standard golf carts are not titled, so the bill of sale is the ownership record. Street-legal low-speed vehicles (LSVs) are titled and registered like cars.

Seller steps

1. Confirm you hold clear title. If a lender is on the title, get the lien release before you list it.
2. Agree on the price and fill in the Illinois golf cart bill of sale above with the buyer. Record the Serial / VIN.
3. Both parties sign and each keeps a copy. Illinois does not require a notary.
4. Sign the title over to the buyer exactly as your name appears on it, and complete the odometer section on the title if the golf cart has one.
5. File a notice of sale or release of liability with the Illinois Secretary of State if Illinois offers one, remove your plates if the state keeps plates with the seller, and cancel the insurance once the buyer has driven away.

Buyer steps

1. Bring the signed bill of sale, the signed title and your ID to the Illinois Secretary of State.
2. Expect to pay sales or use tax on the price shown on the bill of sale, plus title and registration fees.
3. Register within Illinois's deadline, commonly 10 to 30 days from the sale date, to avoid late penalties.

Before you sign

• The serial plate is usually under the seat, on the frame or under the glove box.
• State the battery age for electric carts; it drives the value.
• Note whether it is a true LSV (lights, seat belts, 17-digit VIN) or a standard cart.
• Include the charger in the description if it comes with the cart.

Why a bill of sale matters for a golf cart

• Golf carts are rarely titled; the bill of sale is proof of ownership.
• Needed for HOA, community or county permit stickers in many areas.
• If the cart is an LSV, the DMV needs the price for tax.
• Lists the charger and batteries, which are a big part of the value.

Selling a golf cart? The $19 sell-your-vehicle kit adds a signed release of liability and a Illinois checklist to the pack, so the handoff is finished the day you sign.