How do I sign my Tennessee vehicle title?

 

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and legal transfer of vehicle ownership in Tennessee.

1. Verify Your Title

Before selling your vehicle in Tennessee, ensure that the title is in your name and free of errors. If your title is lost or damaged, request a duplicate from the Tennessee Department of Revenue (DOR) before continuing with the sale.

2. Sign the Title Correctly

Notarization is not required on Tennessee title transfers, but all information must be accurate and complete. On the back of the title, under the “Assignment of Title by Registered Owner” heading, complete the following:

       
  • Seller’s Signature: Sign in the “Signature and Address of Seller(s)” section, exactly as your name appears on the front of the title. Every owner listed on the title must sign.
  • Printed Name: Print your name exactly as it appears on the front of the title.
  • Odometer Disclosure: Enter the correct mileage at the time of sale — whole miles only, no tenths — and check the box that matches: actual mileage, over the mechanical limit, or not the actual mileage. Federal law requires disclosure on model year 2011 and newer vehicles for 20 years; model year 2010 and older vehicles are now exempt.
  • Buyer’s Name and Address: Fill in the full legal name and address of the buyer. The buyer must also sign to acknowledge the transfer.
  • Date of Sale
  • Sale Price

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    Where to sign your Tennessee vehicle title

    Important: Use blue or black ink only. Alterations, erasures, or white-out void a Tennessee Certificate of Title.

    3. Address Any Liens

    If there is an active lien listed on the title, it must be officially released before the vehicle can be sold. This can be done in the lien release section of the title or with a separate release letter from the lienholder — your county clerk can confirm what they will accept.

    4. Complete a Bill of Sale

    While not required by the state, Tennessee recommends completing a Bill of Sale. This helps document the transaction and can protect both the buyer and seller.

    5. Remove License Plates

    In Tennessee, license plates remain with the seller. You must remove your plates before handing over the vehicle. You can transfer them to your next vehicle for a small fee, and the buyer will need to apply for new registration and plates in their name.

    6. Notify the County Clerk

    Although not required, sellers may submit a notice of sale to their local county clerk’s office for added protection against future liability. This is especially useful if the buyer delays registration.

    Key Takeaways  
         

    • Sign the back of the title, under “Assignment of Title by Registered Owner.”
    • Tennessee does not require notarization for standard vehicle title transfers.
    • All required sections of the title must be completed accurately.
    • License plates stay with the seller.
    • The buyer must transfer the title within 30 days to avoid penalties.

    For forms, fees, and additional information, visit the official Tennessee DOR Title and Registration page.

                 
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