How to Sign Your Title in Missouri

Transferring ownership of a vehicle in Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Missouri 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, scribbles, or make erasures.
  • Notarization Requirement: Missouri requires the seller's signature to be notarized.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate the Title Assignment Section

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

2. Fill in Buyer Information

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

3. 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.

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 All Seller(s)".
    • Multiple Sellers: If multiple sellers are 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 beneath your signature.
  • Notarization:
    • Do Not Sign Until in Presence of a 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, seal, and commission expiration date.

6. Buyer's Signature

For the Buyer(s):

  • Signature Line: Sign on the line labeled "Signature of All Buyer(s)".
    • Multiple Buyers: If there are multiple buyers, each should sign if space allows.
  • Printed Name: Print your name(s) beneath 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 Notice of Lien, Lien Release, or Authorization to Add/Remove Name from Title (Form 4809) 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: 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.
  • Safety and Emissions Inspections: Missouri requires a safety inspection and, in certain counties, an emissions inspection for vehicle registration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not Notarizing the Seller's Signature: Missouri 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 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 Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR).
  • How to Apply:
    • In Person: Visit your local DOR license office.
    • By Mail: Send the required forms and payment to the DOR.
  • Required Documents:
    • Completed Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108).
    • Valid photo ID.
    • Applicable fee (usually $8.50 for the title and a $6 processing fee).
  • Processing Time:
    • In Person: Immediate processing in some cases.
    • By Mail: Allow 4-6 weeks for processing.

Finalizing the Transfer

For the Seller

  • Remove License Plates: In Missouri, license plates stay with the seller. You can transfer them to another vehicle or surrender them to the DOR.
  • Notice of Sale or Transfer: Missouri requires the seller to submit a notice of sale within 30 days.
    • Form 5049: Complete the Notice of Sale or Transfer (Form 5049) and submit it to the DOR.
    • Online Submission: You can submit the notice online via the Missouri DOR website.

For the Buyer

  • Register the Vehicle: The buyer must register the vehicle with the DOR within 30 days of the purchase date to avoid late penalties.
  • Submit Required Documents:
    • Signed and notarized title.
    • Bill of sale (if available).
    • Safety inspection certificate (no more than 60 days old).
    • Emissions inspection certificate (if applicable).
    • Proof of insurance.
    • Lien release (if applicable).
    • Personal Property Tax Receipt: Proof of paid personal property taxes or a statement of non-assessment from the county collector.
  • Pay Applicable Fees:
    • Title fee: $8.50.
    • Registration fee: Varies based on vehicle type and weight.
    • Processing fee: $6.
    • Sales tax: 4.225% state tax plus any local taxes.
  • Obtain License Plates: New plates will be issued upon registration.

Contact Information

  • Missouri Department of Revenue
    • Website: Missouri DOR Website
    • Online Services: myDMV Portal
    • Phone: (573) 526-3669
    • Mailing Address:
      • Motor Vehicle Bureau
      • 301 West High Street, Room 370
      • Jefferson City, MO 65101
  • Find a Local License Office:
    • Visit the License Office Locator to find an office near you.

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

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