How to Fill Out a Car Title
A car title must be completed correctly — in ballpoint pen, with no correction fluid, and with every required field filled in — or the DMV will reject it. Here is exactly what goes in each section, what to avoid, and what replacement titles cost in every state.
Use a ballpoint pen only. Never use correction fluid, correction tape, or pencil. Never use a felt-tip or marker pen. Any correction — no matter how small — renders the title void in most states and requires an expensive replacement.
Seller Section — Field by Field
The back of most car titles has a seller section on the top half. Complete all fields before handing the title to the buyer.
Enter the ACTUAL mileage at the time of sale — not an estimate. Federal law (TIMA) requires this for most vehicles under 10 years old.
Check the correct box: "Actual Mileage", "Exceeds Mechanical Limits", or "Not Actual Mileage". Check "Not Actual Mileage" only if the odometer has been replaced or is known to be inaccurate.
Enter the actual sale price. Some states cross-reference this with the tax form you submit at registration. A discrepancy can trigger a reassessment.
Use the date the keys and title change hands — not the date you agreed on price.
ALL owners listed on the title must sign in the seller section. One signature is not enough if the title says "AND".
Print your name exactly as it appears on the title — not your nickname or a shortened version.
Buyer Section — Field by Field
Some states have a buyer section on the title itself. Even when not required on the title, the buyer must complete the registration application with this information.
Print your name exactly as it appears on your driver's license. For joint purchase, include both names with the correct AND/OR connector.
Use your current residential address — not a P.O. box. This is where the DMV will mail your new title.
Some states require the buyer to sign on the title itself (not just the registration form). Check your state's title back for a buyer signature line.
Some titles have a separate buyer's purchase price field. Enter the same amount as the seller's section.
Common Mistakes That Void a Title
Immediately voids the title. You cannot un-void a title with correction fluid — you must apply for a replacement title.
Signing in advance (before finding a buyer) creates a title that appears to be already transferred. Buyers may be unable to register it.
An AND title with only one signature is legally incomplete. The DMV will reject it and the registration cannot be processed.
Most states require a legible signature matching the name on the title. Initials alone may be rejected at the DMV window.
Checking "Not Actual Mileage" when the odometer is accurate can be considered federal odometer fraud. Check carefully.
A blank purchase price or date field may be filled in by a fraudulent buyer. Complete every field before signing.
Replacement Title Fees by State
If you make an uncorrectable error, you must apply for a duplicate (replacement) title before completing the sale. Fees vary widely — from $2 in Texas to over $75 in Florida.