How to Sign Your Title in Maine

Transferring ownership of a vehicle in Maine 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 Maine car title correctly, making for a smooth and hassle-free transaction.

Before You Begin

Read the Title Carefully: Familiarize yourself with the layout and instructions on your Maine 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: Maine does not require notarization for title transfers between private parties.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate the Title Assignment Section

Back of the Title: Turn your Maine title over to the back side.
"Assignment of Ownership": This is where you will transfer ownership to the buyer.

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.
Odometer Certification: Both the seller and buyer may need to sign to certify the odometer reading.

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

For the Seller(s):

Signature Line: Sign on the line labeled "Seller's Signature" or "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.

6. Buyer's Signature

For the Buyer(s):

Signature Line: Sign on the line labeled "Buyer's Signature" or "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 an official lien release letter on the lienholder's letterhead.
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 required, 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.
Sales Tax: Be aware that Maine charges sales tax on private vehicle sales, which the buyer will need to pay upon registration.
Vehicle Inspection: Maine requires an annual safety inspection; ensure the vehicle is compliant.

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.
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 Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
How to Apply:
- In Person: Visit your local BMV branch office.
- By Mail: Send the required forms and payment to the BMV Title Unit.
Required Documents:
- Completed Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title (Form MVT-8).
- Valid photo ID.
- Applicable fee (usually $33).
Processing Time:
- In Person: Processing times may vary.
- By Mail: Allow 7-10 business days for processing.

Finalizing the Transfer

For the Seller

Remove License Plates: In Maine, license plates stay with the seller. You can transfer them to another vehicle or surrender them to the BMV.
Notice of Sale: While not required, it's good practice to notify the BMV of the sale to release liability.
- Vehicle Transfer Notification: You can send a letter to the BMV indicating the vehicle has been sold, including details like VIN, buyer's name, and date of sale.

For the Buyer

Register the Vehicle: The buyer must register the vehicle with the BMV within 30 days of the purchase date.
Submit Required Documents:
- Signed and completed title.
- Bill of sale (if available).
- Proof of insurance.
- Lien release (if applicable).
- Proof of residency.
Pay Applicable Fees:
- Title application fee.
- Registration fee.
- Sales tax (5.5% of the purchase price).
Vehicle Inspection: Obtain a valid Maine vehicle inspection sticker.

Contact Information

Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
- Website: Maine BMV Website
- Phone: (207) 624-9000 ext. 52138 (Title Unit)
- Mailing Address:
  - Bureau of Motor Vehicles
  - Title Examination & Information Unit
  - 29 State House Station
  - Augusta, ME 04333-0029
Local BMV Branch Offices:
- Visit the BMV website to find a branch near you.

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

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