How to Fill Out a Car Title in Texas
A Texas 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.
Texas Title Layout
Texas titles have the vehicle information and current owner on the front. The back contains the assignment section where the seller signs to transfer ownership. Texas titles are typically clean and straightforward to complete.
What the Seller Fills In
The seller signs in the "Seller's Certification" section on the back of the title. Use ballpoint pen only. The signature must match the name as printed on the front of the title. Do not pre-sign titles — they should be signed at time of sale.
What the Buyer Fills In
Enter the buyer's name exactly as they want it on the new title. For co-buyers, both names go in the buyer section with AND or OR between them.
Odometer Disclosure in Texas
Texas requires odometer disclosure in the designated section on the back of the title. The seller certifies the mileage. Odometer fraud is a federal crime — always enter the accurate reading.
Texas does not require notarization for standard private party title transfers. The seller's signature on the title is legally sufficient.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Texas
Signing title before finding a buyer ("pre-signing") — creates legal risk
Incorrect odometer reading or leaving it blank
Sale price that differs from what was actually paid
Failing to get the buyer's signature at the time of transfer
Lienholder section left incomplete when a lien existed
Using a white-out or correction to fix errors
If You Make a Mistake on the Title
Texas titles cannot be corrected. If an error is made, apply for a replacement title (Form VTR-34, $2) and start over. The county tax office will reject titles with corrections or alterations.
Texas's $2 replacement title fee makes it the least expensive state to get a clean title if you make a mistake. Don't try to correct errors — apply for a VTR-34 replacement and start fresh. Never pre-sign a title before selling; the signature should happen at the actual moment of sale.
Texas Car Title Completion FAQ
How does the seller fill out a car title in Texas?
The seller completes: Seller's printed name (must match front of title), Seller's signature, Date of sale, Odometer reading at time of sale, Sale price, Seller's address, Lienholder release (if lien existed). The seller signs in the "Seller's Certification" section on the back of the title. Use ballpoint pen only. The signature must match the name as printed on the front of the title. Do not pre-sign titles — they should be signed at time of sale.
How does the buyer fill out a car title in Texas?
The buyer completes: Buyer's full legal name, Buyer's address, Buyer's signature (in designated buyer section). Enter the buyer's name exactly as they want it on the new title. For co-buyers, both names go in the buyer section with AND or OR between them.
Is the odometer disclosure required on a Texas car title?
Required for vehicles under 10 years old and under 16,000 lbs. Texas requires odometer disclosure in the designated section on the back of the title. The seller certifies the mileage. Odometer fraud is a federal crime — always enter the accurate reading.
What are the most common mistakes when filling out a Texas car title?
Signing title before finding a buyer ("pre-signing") — creates legal risk | Incorrect odometer reading or leaving it blank | Sale price that differs from what was actually paid
What do I do if I make a mistake filling out a car title in Texas?
Texas titles cannot be corrected. If an error is made, apply for a replacement title (Form VTR-34, $2) and start over. The county tax office will reject titles with corrections or alterations.
Does Texas require notarization when filling out a car title?
No. Texas does not require notarization for standard private party title transfers. The seller's signature on the title is legally sufficient.