How to Fill Out a Car Title in California
A California vehicle title must be completed accurately in ballpoint pen — any correction fluid or cross-outs invalidate the title and require applying for a replacement. Here is exactly what the seller and buyer each fill in.
Use ballpoint pen only. No correction fluid, no correction tape, no cross-outs. If you make a mistake, stop — apply for a replacement title before completing the transfer.
California Title Layout
California titles have the ownership information on the front and the transfer/assignment section on the back. The back must be completed by both the seller and buyer at the time of transfer.
What the Seller Fills In
The seller signs where designated on the back of the title. Use a ballpoint pen. Print all text clearly. Do not use correction fluid — errors invalidate the title. The seller's name must match exactly how it appears on the front of the title.
What the Buyer Fills In
The buyer's name should be entered exactly as it should appear on the new title. For co-buyers, specify both names and whether AND or OR applies. Buyer signs in their designated section.
Odometer Disclosure in California
California requires odometer disclosure on the back of the title for vehicles under 10 years old and under 16,000 lbs GVWR. Enter the actual mileage at time of sale. The seller certifies the mileage is accurate to the best of their knowledge.
California does not require notarization for standard private party vehicle title transfers. The seller signature on the back of the title is legally sufficient.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in California
Using correction fluid or correction tape — title is invalid, must apply for replacement
Seller signs in the wrong section (buyer section)
Odometer disclosure left blank on qualifying vehicles
Purchase price left blank or written as "$1" (DMV may question)
Buyer's name written differently from how they want it on the new title
Seller's name does not match how it appears on the front of the title
If You Make a Mistake on the Title
California does not allow any corrections on a signed title. If a mistake is made, the seller must apply for a replacement title (REG 227, $26 fee) and start over. Correction fluid, cross-outs, or stickers are grounds for rejection.
California titles use "ink only" — never a stamp or printed label. The DMV scans both sides of the title. Any correction fluid, tape, or alteration causes the title to be rejected at the DMV window. When in doubt, get a fresh title rather than risk rejection.
California Car Title Completion FAQ
How does the seller fill out a car title in California?
The seller completes: Seller printed name (exactly as on title), Seller signature, Date of sale, Selling price, Odometer reading at time of sale, Seller's address. The seller signs where designated on the back of the title. Use a ballpoint pen. Print all text clearly. Do not use correction fluid — errors invalidate the title. The seller's name must match exactly how it appears on the front of the title.
How does the buyer fill out a car title in California?
The buyer completes: Buyer's full legal name (as it should appear on new title), Buyer's address, Buyer's signature (in designated area). The buyer's name should be entered exactly as it should appear on the new title. For co-buyers, specify both names and whether AND or OR applies. Buyer signs in their designated section.
Is the odometer disclosure required on a California car title?
Required for all vehicles under 10 years old. California requires odometer disclosure on the back of the title for vehicles under 10 years old and under 16,000 lbs GVWR. Enter the actual mileage at time of sale. The seller certifies the mileage is accurate to the best of their knowledge.
What are the most common mistakes when filling out a California car title?
Using correction fluid or correction tape — title is invalid, must apply for replacement | Seller signs in the wrong section (buyer section) | Odometer disclosure left blank on qualifying vehicles
What do I do if I make a mistake filling out a car title in California?
California does not allow any corrections on a signed title. If a mistake is made, the seller must apply for a replacement title (REG 227, $26 fee) and start over. Correction fluid, cross-outs, or stickers are grounds for rejection.
Does California require notarization when filling out a car title?
No. California does not require notarization for standard private party vehicle title transfers. The seller signature on the back of the title is legally sufficient.