How to Sign Your Title in Ohio

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

Before You Begin

  • Read the Title Carefully: Familiarize yourself with the layout and instructions on your Ohio 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: Ohio requires the seller's signature to be notarized for private sales.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate the Title Assignment Section

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

2. Enter the Odometer Reading

  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: Federal and state law require you to 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).
  • 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 "Seller'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.
  • 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 "Buyer's Signature".
    • 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 there is a lien listed on the title, you must obtain a lien release from the lienholder.
    • Lien Release Document: Obtain a notarized lien release letter from the lienholder 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: Although 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: Ohio 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: Ohio 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 Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
  • How to Apply:
    • In Person: Visit your local County Clerk of Courts Title Office.
    • By Mail: Send the required forms and payment to the Title Office.
  • Required Documents:
    • Completed Application for Certificate of Title (Form BMV 3774).
    • Valid photo ID.
    • Applicable fee (usually $15).
  • Processing Time:
    • In Person: Immediate processing at the Title Office.
    • By Mail: Allow 4-6 weeks for processing.

Finalizing the Transfer

For the Seller

  • Remove License Plates: In Ohio, license plates stay with the seller. You can transfer them to another vehicle or surrender them to the BMV.
  • Notify the BMV: While not mandatory, it's good practice to notify the BMV of the sale to release liability.
    • Notice of Sale: Complete a Seller’s Affidavit of Sale and submit it to the BMV.
    • Online Submission: Some notifications can be submitted online through the BMV website.

For the Buyer

  • Register the Vehicle: The buyer must register the vehicle with the Ohio BMV within 30 days of the purchase date.
  • Submit Required Documents:
    • Signed and completed title (with notarized seller signature).
    • Bill of sale (if available).
    • Proof of insurance.
    • Lien release (if applicable).
  • Pay Applicable Fees:
    • Title transfer fee.
    • Registration fee.
    • Sales tax (based on the purchase price or fair market value).
  • Vehicle Inspection: If the vehicle was purchased out of state, an Ohio Vehicle Inspection Certificate (Form HP106) may be required.

Contact Information

  • Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
    • Website: Ohio BMV Website
    • Phone: (614) 752-7500
    • Mailing Address:
      • Bureau of Motor Vehicles
      • P.O. Box 16520
      • Columbus, OH 43216-6520
  • County Clerk of Courts Title Office:
    • Visit the BMV website to find a Title Office near you.

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

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