How to Sign a Car Title Over to a New Owner | 13-Step Guide

Selling a car can be an exciting process, but it also comes with many responsibilities, including signing over the title to the new owner. Several important steps must be taken to ensure the transaction goes smoothly and legally. This article will provide a detailed guide on how to sign a car title over to a new owner, including:

• Understand the Necessary Forms and Documents 
• Obtain the Bill of Sale 
• Get the Title Signed by the Seller 
• Have the Buyer Sign the Title 
• Obtain a Release of Liability Form 
• Have the Seller Provide Proof of Insurance 
• Have the Buyer Provide Proof of Insurance 
• Obtain a Vehicle Inspection Report 
• Notarize the car title
• Pay the title transfer fees
• Complete the transfer form
• Submit the documents to your local DMV
• Receive the new owner’s title

How to Sign a Car Title Over to a New Owner

Step 1: Understand the Necessary Forms and Documents

Before selling your car, it is important to understand the forms and documents required by your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). 

This can include a bill of sale, a release of liability form, and a vehicle inspection report. Check with your state’s DMV for specific requirements.

Step 2: Obtain the Bill of Sale

A bill of sale is a legal document that provides proof of a vehicle’s ownership transfer. 

It should include the buyer and seller’s names and addresses, the vehicle’s make, model, year, VIN, the purchase price, and the date of sale. 

Ensure both the buyer and seller sign and date the bill of sale.

Step 3: Get the Title Signed by the Seller

The seller must sign the back of the car title, including their name, address, and date of sale. 

Learn More: How to Remove Cosigner from Car Title

Read the instructions on the title carefully and sign in the appropriate space. All owners must sign the title if multiple owners are listed on the title.

Step 4: Have the Buyer Sign the Title

The buyer must also sign the back of the title, including their name, address, and date of sale. 

Ensure that they sign in the appropriate space and that their signature matches their name on the title.

Step 5: Obtain a Release of Liability Form

A release of liability form is a legal document that releases the seller from any responsibility for the vehicle once it is sold. 

This is important to protect the seller from any accidents or violations that may occur after the sale. 

The form should be completed and signed by the seller and given to the DMV.

Step 6: Have the Seller Provide Proof of Insurance

Before completing the sale, the seller should provide proof of insurance for the vehicle. This can include a copy of the insurance card or policy.

Step 7: Have the Buyer Provide Proof of Insurance

The buyer should also provide proof of insurance for the vehicle before completing the sale. This can include a copy of the insurance card or policy.

Step 8: Obtain a Vehicle Inspection Report

Some states require a vehicle inspection report before transferring ownership. Check with your state’s DMV to see if this is required.

Step 9: Notarize the Car Title

Some states require the car title to be notarized before transferring it. Check with your state’s DMV to see if this is necessary. 

Read More: How to Get a Car Out of Impound without Title

A notary public can usually be found at a bank, courthouse, or other public location.

Step 10: Pay the Title Transfer Fees

There is usually a fee associated with transferring a car title. Check with your state’s DMV to see how the fee can be paid.

Step 11: Complete the Transfer Form

Fill out the transfer form provided by the DMV, including all necessary information about the buyer, seller, and vehicle. Make sure to sign and date the form.

Step 12: Submit the Documents to Your Local DMV

Submit all necessary documents to your local DMV, including the signed car title, bill of sale, release of liability form, vehicle inspection report (if required), proof of insurance for both the seller and the buyer, and the transfer form. It is important to make copies of these documents for your records.

Learn More: How to Register a Car without Title in NC

Step 13: Receive the New Owner’s Title

Once all necessary paperwork has been submitted and processed, the new owner will receive their new car title in the mail. This may take several weeks, so make sure to plan accordingly.

My Opinion

In conclusion, understanding how to sign a car title over to a new owner is crucial for a smooth and legal transfer of ownership. Following the 13-step guide, you can navigate the process confidently, ensuring all necessary steps and documents are completed. Empower yourself with the knowledge to facilitate a successful title transfer.