Alaska Vehicle Titles
Title Signing Instructions in Alaska when Selling a Vehicle Private Party
When selling a vehicle privately in Alaska, it is important to properly sign and transfer the vehicle’s title to the new owner. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a smooth and legal transfer:
1. Review the Title: Ensure that you are the legal owner of the vehicle and that the title is in your name. If there is a lienholder mentioned on the title, you must obtain a lien release document from the lienholder before proceeding with the sale.
2. Buyer’s Information: Collect the buyer’s full name, address, and phone number. This information will be required to complete the title transfer.
3. Confirm Odometer Reading: Alaska requires the disclosure of the vehicle’s odometer reading at the time of sale. Ensure that the odometer reading on the title matches the actual mileage of the vehicle. If not, an odometer discrepancy form may be required to be filled out and submitted.
4. Complete the Seller’s Section: As the seller, you will need to complete the appropriate sections on the back of the title certificate. Fill in the buyer’s name, full address, date of sale, and sale price in the designated fields accurately.
5. Sign the Title: Once the required information is filled out, sign your name exactly as it appears on the title. Use ink and ensure the signature is legible. Do not sign in advance; wait until you are in the presence of a notary public or at the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
6. Seller’s Disclosure Statement: In Alaska, it is mandatory to provide a Seller’s Disclosure Statement (Form 808) when selling a vehicle that is less than nine years old. Fill out this form completely, indicating any known defects or issues with the vehicle.
7. Provide a Bill of Sale: Although not required by Alaska law, it is strongly recommended to create a Bill of Sale to document the transaction. Include the vehicle’s details (make, model, year, VIN), buyer and seller’s information (including signatures), purchase price, and the date of sale. Both parties should retain a copy for their records.
8. Notify the DMV: As the seller, you are responsible for notifying the DMV within ten days of the sale. You can do this by submitting the seller’s copy of the title to the DMV, either in person or by mail, along with a completed Notice of Vehicle Sale (Form 844). This step can also be completed online through the MyDMV portal.
Remember to provide the buyer with their copy of the title, the completed Seller’s Disclosure Statement, and the Bill of Sale (if created). Advising the buyer to properly register the vehicle in their name is also recommended.
Please note that this guide provides general instructions for the vehicle title signing process when selling privately in Alaska. If you have specific questions or need clarification, it is advisable to contact the Alaska DMV or consult legal counsel.