Follow these main steps to complete the title transfer and vehicle registration without the seller present:
| Step | Action Item |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gather Documentation |
| 2 | Complete DMV Title Application |
| 3 | Provide Statement of Fact |
| 4 | Pay Applicable Fees |
| 5 | Submit Paperwork to DMV |
Relevant Articles To Read:
- Where To Get a Car Title Notarized
- How to Transfer a Car Title After Death of Owner
- How To Sign Over A Car Title
- My Ex Forged My Signature on a Car Title
Table of Contents
Overview of Title Notarization and Ownership Transfer Without the Seller
When transferring vehicle ownership, both the buyer and seller usually sign the title together in front of a notary. This verifies their identities and legalizes the sale.
However, if the seller can’t attend, you still have alternatives:
- Provide power of attorney for someone else to sign
- Apply for duplicate title from the DMV
- Obtain a bonded vehicle title
Be prepared to file extra paperwork based on your state’s requirements.
1. Gather Documentation
Collect documents like the unsigned title, bill of sale, your ID, vehicle registration, and any other proofs your state needs such as VIN verification.
2. Complete DMV Title Application
Fill out your state DMV’s title transfer application forms fully. Note the seller’s signature is unavailable.
3. Provide a Statement of Fact
Write an official statement for why the seller can’t sign, like being deceased, missing, or unwilling. Have this statement properly notarized.
4. Pay Any Applicable Fees
Pay the title transfer taxes and fees, plus any special charges related to the absent seller per your state.
5. Submit Paperwork
Send your documents to the DMV. If approved, they issue a new title in your name.
States Without Title Notarization Requirements
While most states require vehicle titles to be notarized when transferring ownership, the following states currently do not have this requirement:
- Alaska
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Dakota
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
However, some states may have unique processes that serve a similar legal purpose during ownership transfers.
Given that legislation can change, always verify the vehicle title notarization rules in your state by contacting your local DMV or referring to official government websites when conducting a title transfer.
Sources For This Article:
- https://www.thirdcoastautos.com/blog/can-i-sell-a-car-that-doesnt-have-my-name-on-the-title/
- https://notary.pandadoc.com/knowledge-center/what-states-require-a-title-to-be-notarized/
- https://dfkitcar.com/forum/index.php
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Notary/comments/195cxdi/getting_title_notarized/
- https://slonotary.com/do-i-need-a-notary-to-sell-my-car/
