Do all owners need to sign an Alabama car title?

It depends on how ownership is listed on the title. Titles showing 'AND' or '/' require all owners to sign. Titles showing 'OR' may require only one signature. Always confirm the wording on the title.

What if there is a lienholder on my Alabama title?

If a lienholder appears on the title, the lien must be released before ownership can be transferred. This usually requires a lien release signature or stamp on the title or an original lien release document from the lender.

How do I replace a lost or damaged Alabama title?

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Alabama title, submit Form MVT-12-1 with the required fee. Replacement titles can be requested online or through the Alabama Department of Revenue.

Do I keep my license plates after selling a car in Alabama?

Yes. Alabama requires sellers to remove their license plates before releasing the vehicle. Plates must be returned or handled according to local DMV instructions.

Alabama Vehicle Title Guide | How to Sign, Transfer & Replace a Car Title

Q: Where do I sign an Alabama vehicle title?

Sellers must sign on the back of the Alabama vehicle title in the upper-right section labeled 'Signature(s) of Seller(s)'. Only sign in the designated seller section.

How to Sign an Alabama Vehicle Title

When transferring ownership of a vehicle in Alabama, signatures must be completed carefully to avoid delays. Use blue or black ink only, and sign your name exactly as it appears on the title. Even small differences can invalidate the document.

Common Mistakes That Will Void a Title
Avoid the following when signing your title:

Signing in the wrong area
A signature that does not match your driver’s license
Cross-outs, erasures, or alterations
White-out or correction fluid
Torn or damaged titles
Tracing over signatures or markings
Using pencil or marker instead of ink

If a title is voided, a replacement will be required before the sale can proceed.

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Where to Sign an Alabama Title

Sellers must sign on the back of the title, in the upper-right section labeled “Signature(s) of Seller(s)”. Only sign in the designated seller section. Do not sign anywhere else unless explicitly instructed.

Vehicles with Multiple Owners

If more than one owner is listed, the wording on the title determines who must sign:

AND – all listed owners must sign
/ – all listed owners must sign
OR – only one owner’s signature is required
AND/OR – one or more owners may be required to sign depending on how the title is issued

Always confirm ownership wording before signing.

Titles Showing a Lienholder

If a lienholder appears on the title, the lien must be released before ownership can be transferred.

This typically requires:

A lien release signature or stamp directly on the title
Or an original lien release document from the lender

Without proper lien release documentation, the title cannot be transferred.

If the Vehicle Owner Is Deceased

Additional paperwork is required when the titled owner has passed away.

Joint ownership with survivorship: a certified copy of the death certificate is required
Individual ownership: documentation proving legal authority is required, such as:
- Executor or Administrator paperwork
- Surviving spouse documentation
- Next-of-kin authorization

A certified death certificate must accompany the title in all cases.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged Alabama Title

If your title has been lost, stolen, damaged, or voided, you must request a replacement before selling the vehicle.

Replacement titles can be requested online or in person at Alabama MVD office..

Estimated processing times

Online request: approximately 7 to 14 business days
Mail-in request: approximately 4 to 6 weeks

What you’ll need

Completed Form (MVT-12-1)
$15 fee paid by money order or cashier’s check

Submission options

In person at a local Alabama Motor Vehicle Division office
By mail to:

Alabama Department of Revenue
Motor Vehicle Division – Title Section
PO Box 327640
Montgomery, AL 36132

For the most current requirements, visit the Alabama Department of Revenue website.

After Selling Your Vehicle in Alabama

Reporting the Sale
Alabama requires sellers to report a vehicle sale within 30 days of the transaction.

This is typically done by:

Removing and surrendering your license plate
Submitting a Bill of Sale or Notice of Sale to the state

LetGoRide provides sale documentation by email to help complete this step.

How to Submit Your Sale Notice

In Person
Visit your local Alabama tag agency and submit your documentation directly.

By Mail
Send your paperwork to:

Vehicle Registration & Records
PO Box 327630
Montgomery, AL 36132-7630

Do I Keep My License Plates?

Yes. Alabama requires sellers to remove their license plates before releasing the vehicle. For additional instructions regarding plate return or reuse, contact your local DMV office.