Q&A for How to Notarize a Car Title

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What should I do if the seller doesn't sign the title exactly as his name is on the front of it?

Community Answer

In general, signatures may sometimes look nothing like the signer's printed name, as some folks sign differently on the signature areas on forms and such, as opposed to how they would print out their name on forms (for example, titles, cheques, etc.). You could ask the seller to sign the document again, in front of you.

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Question

If a friend is giving me a truck for free, does he have to put 'free' on the title, or a certain monetary amount?

Miss Elizabeth

Community Answer

He should put "gift" in the area where the price would normally go. However, check the wording for your state to make sure.

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Question

Do the buyer and seller both need to be present to notarize a car title?

Community Answer

It depends on the state in which you live. The laws are different in every state.

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Question

Does the buyer's name need to be on the title in North Carolina before it can be notarized?

Community Answer

Not necessarily, but some notaries retain the right to refuse to notarize an open title.

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Question

I purchased a car in North Carolina; the owner was in Texas. I want to get the title in my name. How can I do this if the previous owner is in Texas and did not get it notarized when he signed it?

Community Answer

You need to mail it back and have seller re-sign it and get it notarized. Some notaries will let you sign a blank sheet of paper just to they can compare the two signatures and verify signer's identity, then notarize the original document.

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Question

If I already have my title notarized, how can the DMV charge me for notary signature?

Community Answer

The seller notarized the old title; the DMV notarizes the buyer's signature for the new title.

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Question

What type of signature is needed from the notary?

Community Answer

In general, transferring the title from seller to buyer must be done in front of a Notary Public. Do not sign anything before you and the other party are both at the Notary's office at the same time. The Notary will give you the precise instructions necessary. Both parties will need to show identification, such as a driver's license. If you have already signed the title before visiting the Notary, then you might have to request a duplicate title from your Department of Motor Vehicles. Again, the Notary should be able to help you. The exact details of the procedure differ among the 50 states and the Canadian provinces.

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Question

I'm giving my brother a car, can I get it notarized with him and will it be cleared of having been in my name?

Community Answer

You MUST transfer the title. That can only be done if there are no liens on the vehicle.

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Question

Is the car mileage required?

Community Answer

Yes. Take it to a notary and they will take care of it. Most banks, insurance offices, car dealers, etc. have one on duty.

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