Properly signing your New Mexico vehicle title is one of the most important parts of a legal sale. Use the steps below as your guide. If you're working with a dealer, ask them how they want the title handled before you sign.
1. Verify Your Title
Start by confirming that the title is in your name and contains no mistakes. If the title has been lost, stolen, or damaged, request a duplicate through the New Mexico MVD before going any further.
2. Notarization Is Not Required
Notarization isn't required for a standard private sale in New Mexico. The seller and buyer signatures on the title are all that's needed. The exception is special circumstances like Power of Attorney signings. When in doubt, the New Mexico MVD can clarify what your specific situation requires.
3. Complete the Seller Information on the Back of the Title
Flip the title over to find the seller information section, which needs to be filled out without errors:
- Seller's Signature: Sign in the box labeled for the seller's signature. All owners listed on the title must sign.
- Printed Name of Seller: Print your name exactly as it appears on the title.
- Buyer Information: Provide the buyer's full name and address in the designated section.
- Odometer Reading: Provide the vehicle's accurate mileage at the time of sale, ensuring this information is filled in correctly without errors. It is important to not guess this number, and record an exact mileage number.
Important: Never apply white-out, scribble through information, or attempt corrections on a title — any of these will invalidate it.
4. Address Liens
Any active lien listed on the title must be cleared before the sale can complete. The lienholder either needs to sign off on the title or supply a lien release letter. Don't attempt to transfer the title until this is resolved.
5. Consider Multiple Owners
When two or more owners are listed on the title, the wording between the names determines who needs to sign:
- "AND": Both owners are required to sign.
- "OR": Only one owner needs to sign.
Key Takeaways
- Notarization is not required for a standard private sale.
- Ensure all signatures match exactly as they appear on the title.
- Address any existing liens before proceeding.
These steps cover the New Mexico title-signing process for a standard sale. For deeper guidance and any state-specific exceptions, refer to the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division website.
Verified May 2026