Maryland Vehicle Titles
Signing a Vehicle Title in Maryland – Private Party Sale
When selling a vehicle privately in Maryland, it is essential to properly sign the vehicle title to transfer ownership. Follow the below instructions to complete the process successfully.
1. Review the Title: Ensure that you have the original vehicle title with no errors, alterations, or missing information. If there are any issues, obtain a duplicate title from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) before proceeding.
2. Complete the Seller Information: As the seller, fill out the appropriate sections on the title. Provide your full legal name, complete address, and date of sale in the designated seller fields. Make sure to print clearly using black or blue ink. Do not use a pencil or white-out.
3. Complete the Purchaser Information: The purchaser, or buyer, must also complete their information on the title. This includes their full legal name, complete address, and date of purchase. Again, legibly print the information in black or blue ink.
4. Provide Odometer Reading: If the vehicle is under 10 years old, you must record the accurate mileage on the appropriate space on the title. Use the mileage as shown on the vehicle’s odometer and include it in the Odometer Disclosure section.
5. Sign the Title: As the seller, you are required to sign the title in the designated section, usually found on the back. Sign within the specified seller signature line using your full legal signature. Be sure to sign precisely as it appears on the front of the title.
6. Obtain a Bill of Sale: While not mandatory for private party sales in Maryland, it is highly recommended to create a Bill of Sale as a proof of transaction. Include details such as the vehicle’s make, model, year, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), purchase price, and both the seller and buyer’s names and addresses. Both parties should sign this document.
7. Provide the Buyer with Documents: Give the completed and signed vehicle title, along with the Bill of Sale, to the buyer. It is advisable to make copies of these documents for your records.
8. Remove and Retain License Plates: As the seller, remove the license plates from the vehicle before transferring ownership. These plates will remain with you, and you may reuse them or return them to the MVA.
9. Notify the MVA of the Sale: It is important to inform the Maryland MVA about the vehicle sale within 30 days. This can be done online or by completing a Notice of Sale (Form VR-181) and mailing it to the address provided on the form. This step relieves you of any liability related to the vehicle following its sale.
By following these instructions, you can sign a vehicle title correctly when selling a vehicle privately in Maryland. Remember to consult the Maryland MVA website or their local office for any additional instructions or specific requirements.