How to Sell a Gun in Texas: Free Gun Bill of Sale Template and Complete Guide (2025)

As a Texas business and firearms law writer with over a decade of experience drafting private-party transfer documents, I’ve helped thousands of residents legally sell a firearm in Texas without running afoul of state or federal rules. One of the most frequent questions I get is: “Do I really need a gun bill of sale in Texas? The short answer is no—Texas does not legally require one for private sales—but using a properly completed firearm bill of sale Texas template is the smartest way to protect yourself from future liability. Below you’ll find my updated-for-2025 free printable gun bill of sale Texas template plus everything you need to know about how to transfer gun ownership in Texas the right way.

Download your free Texas firearm bill of sale PDF here: Click to Download Free Gun Bill of Sale Template (PDF)

Do You Need a Bill of Sale to Sell a Gun in Texas?

Texas is one of the most gun-friendly states in the nation. Unlike California, New York, or even Colorado, Texas does not require private individuals to conduct background checks, obtain any permit, or complete any state-mandated paperwork when selling a long gun (rifle or shotgun) or handgun to another Texas resident who is 18 or older (21 for handguns from non-FFL sellers). This is confirmed directly by the Texas Department of Public Safety and federal ATF guidelines.

However, the ATF strongly recommends—and I strongly recommend—that every private sale be documented with a written Texas firearm bill of sale. Why? Because without written proof, you have almost no defense if the firearm is later used in a crime and law enforcement comes knocking at your door asking where you “lost” that gun.

Texas Firearm Bill of Sale Requirements: What the Law Actually Says

According to ATF Federal Firearms Regulations Reference Guide and Texas Penal Code §46.06 (Unlawful Transfer of Firearms), the seller must:

• Not knowingly sell or transfer a firearm to a prohibited person (felon, domestic violence misdemeanor, etc.)
• Be at least 18 to sell a long gun and 21 to sell a handgun to another private party
• Keep a record if you are “engaged in the business” (new ATF rule effective 2024)

There is no state form and no requirement to notarize, but a detailed bill of sale that includes serial number, make, model, caliber, buyer and seller identification, and a statement that the buyer is not prohibited satisfies best practice and has saved countless sellers in civil and criminal investigations.

Step-by-Step: How to Sell a Firearm in Texas Privately (2025)

1. Verify the buyer is a Texas resident (Texas DL or state-issued ID)
2. Ask to see their ID and confirm they are 18+ (21+ for handguns)
3. Ask verbally: “Are you prohibited from owning firearms under state or federal law?” (Document their “No” answer on the bill of sale)
4. Both parties complete and sign the gun bill of sale Texas form
5. Make at least two copies—one for each party
6. Store your copy with your important papers for at least 10–20 years

Free Printable Gun Bill of Sale Texas Template (2025 Version)

Below is the exact template I provide to my consulting clients. It meets or exceeds every recommendation from ATF and Texas DPS.

TEXAS FIREARM BILL OF SALE
Date of Sale:	_____________________________
Seller Name:	_____________________________
Seller Address:	_____________________________
Seller Phone:	_____________________________
Buyer Name:	_____________________________
Buyer Address:	_____________________________
Buyer Phone:	_____________________________
Firearm Type:	☐ Handgun ☐ Rifle ☐ Shotgun ☐ Other
Make:	_____________________________
Model:	_____________________________
Caliber/Gauge:	_____________________________
Serial Number:	_____________________________
Sale Price:	$____________________________
Buyer Certification: I certify that I am not prohibited by state or federal law from purchasing or possessing firearms and that all information provided is true and correct.
Buyer Signature: _____________________________ Date: ___________
Seller Signature: _____________________________ Date: ___________

Download Free Texas Gun Bill of Sale (PDF – Ready to Print)

Common Mistakes Texas Sellers Make (And How to Avoid Them)

• Not writing down the serial number – This is the #1 reason sellers later regret not using a bill of sale.
• Selling to an out-of-state resident without going through an FFL – Federal law still prohibits direct interstate private sales.
• Accepting only cash with no receipt – Always document the transaction.
• Forgetting to remove the gun from your concealed handgun license list (if applicable) – Not required but good practice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Guns in Texas

Can I sell a gun without a background check in Texas?

Yes, private sales between Texas residents do not require NICS background checks in 2025.

Do I need to register the gun with the state?

No. Texas has no firearm registration requirement.

Is notarization required for a Texas gun bill of sale?

No, but some sellers choose to notarize for extra protection.

What if I’m selling an inherited firearm?

Same rules apply. Use the bill of sale and keep records.

Can I sell at a gun show the same way?

Yes, private sales at Texas gun shows follow identical rules—no FFL needed if both parties are Texas residents.

Final Thoughts from a Texas Firearms Documentation Expert

In my 10+ years drafting these documents, I’ve seen too many good people get dragged into investigations simply because they “just handed the gun over to a buddy” with no paperwork. A simple free gun bill of sale takes two minutes and can save you years of headache.

Download the template, fill it out completely, keep your copy forever. That’s it—you’ve just done everything right under Texas and federal law.

Legal Disclaimer: This article and template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Firearms laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed Texas attorney or your local law enforcement agency for advice specific to your situation.

Sources: IRS.gov (record-keeping guidelines), ATF.gov, Texas Penal Code §46.06, Texas Government Code §411.188

Stay safe and sell smart.