How to Prepare and Sign Your Michigan Vehicle Title 

Complete Guide to Preparing and Signing Your Michigan Vehicle Title

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth, legal transfer of vehicle ownership in Michigan.

1. Verify Your Title

Before selling your vehicle in Michigan, make sure the title is in your name and free of errors. If the title is lost or damaged, you must request a duplicate from the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) before proceeding.

2. Sign the Title Correctly

Michigan does not require notarization for private vehicle sales, but the title must be filled out completely and accurately. On the front of the Michigan title, complete these fields:   

  • Seller’s Signature: Sign in the "Seller’s Signature" box.   
  • Printed Name of Seller: Print your name exactly as it appears on the front of the title.   
  • Odometer Disclosure: Check box to verify ‘actual mileage’, ‘not actual mileage’, or ‘exceeds mechanical limits’.  
  • Buyer’s Name and Address: Enter the buyer’s full legal name and current address.   
  • Date of Sale   
  • Sale Price
    •      
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    Important: Avoid errors or white-out; mistakes can void the title and require a duplicate to proceed.

    3. Address Any Liens

    If there is an active lien on the title, it must be released before the sale. The lienholder must complete the lien release section on the title or provide a separate lien termination statement.

    4. Multiple Owners

    If more than one owner is listed on the title:   

  • "AND": All owners must sign the title.   
  • "OR": Only one listed owner must sign. 


    • 5. Provide a Bill of Sale

    While not required by the state, a signed Bill of Sale is strongly recommended. It should include the vehicle description, sale price, date of sale, and signatures of both buyer and seller.

    6. Remove License Plates

    In Michigan, license plates stay with the seller. You must remove your plates before handing over the vehicle. You may transfer the plate to another vehicle you own or return it to the SOS office if needed.

    7. Buyer’s Responsibility

    The buyer must take the signed title, proof of insurance, and a valid ID to a Michigan Secretary of State office to apply for the new title and registration within 15 days of the sale. They will pay the applicable taxes and fees.

    Key Takeaways   

  • No notarization is required for Michigan title transfers.   
  • All fields must be completed correctly on the front of the title.   
  • Plates stay with the seller.   
  • Buyers must transfer the title within 15 days to avoid penalties.
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    For official forms and additional information, visit the Michigan Secretary of State website.
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