How to Sign Your Title in Idaho

Transferring ownership of a vehicle in Idaho requires careful attention to detail. Incorrectly completing the title can lead to delays, legal issues, or even void the transfer. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you sign your Idaho car title correctly, helping you towards a smooth and hassle-free transaction.

Before You Begin

  • Read the Title Carefully: Familiarize yourself with the layout and instructions on your Idaho title.
  • Use Proper Ink: Use black or blue ink to fill out the title. Avoid using pencils or colorful inks.
  • Avoid Errors: Mistakes can void the title. Do not use white-out, scratch-outs, or make erasures.
  • Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles less than 10 years old.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate the Title Assignment Section

  • Back of the Title: Turn your Idaho title over to the back side.
  • "Assignment of Title by Registered Owner": This is where you will transfer ownership.

2. Enter the Date of Sale

  • Date Field: Write the exact date of the vehicle sale in the space provided.

3. Fill in Buyer Information

  • Buyer's Printed Name(s): Clearly print the full legal name(s) of the buyer(s) as it appears on their ID.
  • Buyer's Address: Include the complete physical address of the buyer(s).

4. Provide the Odometer Reading

  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: Required for vehicles less than 10 years old.
  • Exact Mileage: Enter the current odometer reading (no tenths) as of the date of sale.
  • Odometer Certification: Both the seller and buyer must sign to certify the odometer reading.

5. Fill in Selling Price

  • Selling Price: Write the exact amount for which the vehicle is being sold.

6. Seller's Signature

For the Seller(s):

  • Signature Line: Sign on the line labeled "Signature of Seller" or "Registered Owner's Signature".
    • Multiple Sellers: If there are multiple sellers listed with "AND" between names, all must sign. If "OR" is listed, only one seller's signature is required.
  • Printed Name: Print your name(s) exactly as it appears on the front of the title next to your signature.

7. Buyer's Signature

For the Buyer(s):

  • Signature Line: Sign on the line labeled "Signature of Buyer".
    • Multiple Buyers: If there are multiple buyers, each should sign if space allows.
  • Printed Name: Print your name(s) next to your signature.

8. Lienholder Information (If Applicable)

  • Lien Release: If a lien is listed on the title, you must obtain a lien release from the lienholder.
    • Lien Release Document: Obtain a lien release letter or have the lienholder sign off on the title.
  • Attach Lien Release: Provide the lien release to the buyer to submit during registration.

Additional Tips

  • Match Names Exactly: Ensure all signatures and printed names match those on the front of the title.
  • No Blank Fields: Do not leave any required fields blank. Incomplete titles can be rejected.
  • Bill of Sale: While not mandatory, it's advisable to complete a bill of sale for additional legal protection. Include:
    • Vehicle information (make, model, year, VIN)
    • Sale price
    • Date of sale
    • Names and signatures of buyer and seller
  • Keep Copies: Make photocopies of the signed title and bill of sale for your records.
  • Release of Liability: The seller should complete a Release of Liability form to notify the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) of the sale.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Incorrect Signatures: Signing in the wrong place or not as the name appears on the title.
  • Alterations: Using white-out, crossing out, or erasing information.
  • Missing Signatures: Forgetting to have all required parties sign.
  • Not Providing Lien Release: Failing to provide a lien release if there is a lien on the title.
  • Incomplete Odometer Disclosure: Not filling out or signing the odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 10 years old.

What If You Don't Have the Title?

Lost or Misplaced Title

  • Apply for a Duplicate Title: You can request a duplicate from the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD).
  • How to Apply:
    • In Person: Visit your local county assessor's motor vehicle office.
    • By Mail: Send the required forms and payment to the ITD.
  • Required Documents:
    • Completed Duplicate Idaho Title Application (Form ITD 3367).
    • Notarized signature of the owner.
    • Valid photo ID.
    • Applicable fee (usually $14).
  • Processing Time:
    • In Person: Immediate processing in some cases.
    • By Mail: Allow 3-5 business days for processing.

Finalizing the Transfer

For the Seller

  • Remove License Plates: In Idaho, license plates stay with the seller. You can transfer them to another vehicle or surrender them to the ITD.
  • Release of Liability:
    • Form ITD 3858: Complete the Notice of Release of Liability.
    • Submit to ITD: Send the form to the ITD within 5 days of the sale.
    • Online Submission: You can submit the release online through the ITD website.

For the Buyer

  • Apply for Title and Registration: The buyer must apply for a new title and register the vehicle within 30 days of the purchase date.
  • Submit Required Documents:
    • Signed and completed title.
    • Bill of sale (if available).
    • Lien release (if applicable).
    • Odometer disclosure statement.
  • Pay Applicable Fees:
    • Title transfer fee.
    • Registration fee.
    • Sales/use tax (6% of the purchase price).
  • Provide Proof of Insurance: Idaho requires proof of liability insurance at the time of registration.
  • Vehicle Inspection:
    • Out-of-State Vehicles: If the vehicle was previously titled in another state, a VIN inspection may be required.
    • VIN Inspection Form: Completed by a law enforcement officer or authorized agent.

Contact Information

  • Idaho Transportation Department - Division of Motor Vehicles
    • Website: Idaho DMV Website
    • Phone: (208) 334-8000
    • Mailing Address:
      • Idaho Transportation Department
      • Division of Motor Vehicles
      • P.O. Box 7129
      • Boise, ID 83707-1129
  • Local County Assessor's Motor Vehicle Offices:
    • Visit the ITD website to find a local office near you.

By following these steps, the transfer of vehicle ownership in Idaho will be legal and efficient. Always consult the Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles or legal counsel if you have specific questions or unique circumstances.

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