How to Sign Your Title in Kansas

Transferring ownership of a vehicle in Kansas 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 Kansas car title correctly, providing a smooth and hassle-free transaction.

Before You Begin

  • Read the Title Carefully: Familiarize yourself with the layout and instructions on your Kansas 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.
  • Notarization: Kansas requires the seller's signature to be notarized.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate the Title Assignment Section

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

2. Enter the Odometer Reading

  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: Federal and state law require that you disclose the current mileage.
  • Exact Mileage: Enter the current odometer reading (no tenths) as of the date of sale.

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. Fill in Selling Price and Date

  • Selling Price: Write the exact amount for which the vehicle is being sold.
  • Date of Sale: Enter the date when the sale is taking place.

5. Seller's Signature and Notarization

For the Seller(s):

  • Signature Line: Sign on the line labeled "Signature of Seller(s)".
    • 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.
  • Notarization:
    • Do Not Sign Until in Presence of Notary: Wait to sign until you are with a licensed notary public.
    • Provide Valid ID: The notary will require a valid government-issued ID.
    • Notary Completes Section: The notary will fill out their portion, including their signature and seal.

6. Buyer's Signature

For the Buyer(s):

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

7. 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 notarized lien release from the lienholder.
  • 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: Kansas requires a bill of sale for vehicle transactions. 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.
  • Sales Tax: Be aware that Kansas charges sales tax on private vehicle sales, which the buyer will need to pay upon registration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not Notarizing the Seller's Signature: Kansas requires the seller's signature to be notarized.
  • 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.
  • Incorrect Odometer Reading: Providing an inaccurate mileage can lead to legal issues.
  • Not Providing Lien Release: Failing to provide a lien release if there is a lien on the title.

What If You Don't Have the Title?

Lost or Misplaced Title

  • Apply for a Duplicate Title: You can request a duplicate from the Kansas Department of Revenue, Division of Vehicles.
  • How to Apply:
    • In Person: Visit your local county treasurer's motor vehicle office.
    • By Mail: Send the required forms and payment to the Kansas Department of Revenue.
  • Required Documents:
    • Completed Application for Secured/Duplicate/Reissue Title (Form TR-720B).
    • Valid photo ID.
    • Applicable fee (usually $10).
  • Processing Time:
    • In Person: Immediate processing in some cases.
    • By Mail: Allow 1-2 weeks for processing.

Finalizing the Transfer

For the Seller

  • Remove License Plates: In Kansas, license plates stay with the seller. You can transfer them to another vehicle or surrender them.
  • Notify the Department of Revenue: While not mandatory, it's good practice to notify the Department of Revenue of the sale to release liability.
    • Seller's Notification of Sale: Complete a Seller's Notification of Sale online or via mail.
    • Online Submission: Notifications can be submitted online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website.

For the Buyer

  • Register the Vehicle: The buyer must register the vehicle with the local county treasurer's office within 60 days of the purchase date.
  • Submit Required Documents:
    • Signed and notarized title.
    • Bill of sale.
    • Proof of insurance.
    • Lien release (if applicable).
  • Pay Applicable Fees:
    • Title transfer fee.
    • Registration fee.
    • Sales tax (based on the purchase price).
  • Vehicle Inspection: If the vehicle was purchased from out-of-state, a VIN inspection is required.
    • VIN Inspection: Can be completed at the Kansas Highway Patrol or designated inspection stations.
    • Fee: Usually around $20.

Contact Information

  • Kansas Department of Revenue - Division of Vehicles
  • Find Your Local County Treasurer's Office:
    • Visit the Kansas County Treasurer Locations to locate your local office.

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

We'll Buy Any Vehicle in Kansas

Get an instant offer to sell your car for cash now!

Instant Online Offer
1-855-437-9728

Start typing and press enter to search