Signing Your Ohio Vehicle Title
Ohio requires vehicle titles to be notarized at the time of signing. Do not sign your title until you are physically in front of a Notary Public. Signing without notarization will void the title and force you to obtain a duplicate.
What Will Void an Ohio Title
- Signing the title without a notary present
- Using ink other than blue or black
- Cross-outs, erasures, or write-overs
- White-out or correction fluid
- Rips, tears, or damaged titles
- Signing in the Dealer Reassignment section if you are not a dealer
If any of these occur, the Ohio BMV will require a duplicate title before the vehicle can be sold.
Selling a Car in Ohio With LetGoRide
LetGoRide makes selling a car in Ohio simple. We guide you through the notarized title process, provide a fair market-based offer, and handle pickup so you do not have to visit the BMV.
- No pressure or dealership runaround
- Free pickup anywhere in Ohio
- Offers reviewed by real people
Where to Sign an Ohio Title
The title must be notarized. Bring valid photo ID and do not sign until the notary instructs you to.
Sign on the back of the title in the section labeled “Transferor’s / Seller’s Signature.”
Print your name directly below where it states “Transferor’s / Seller’s Printed Name.”
Vehicles With Multiple Owners
If more than one owner appears on the Ohio title, signing requirements depend on how the names are listed.
- Owner 1 OR Owner 2 – Only one owner must sign
- Owner 1 AND/OR Owner 2 – Both owners must sign unless one is deceased
- Owner 1 AND Owner 2 – Both owners must sign
- No conjunction listed – Both owners must sign
Titles Showing a Lienholder
If a lienholder appears on the title, the lien must be released before the vehicle can be transferred.
- Lien release recorded directly on the title
- Or a separate lien release letter from the lender
Without a lien release, the Ohio BMV will not process the transfer.
Replacing a Lost or Damaged Ohio Title
If your Ohio title is lost, stolen, damaged, or signed incorrectly, you must obtain a duplicate title before selling the vehicle.
- Duplicate titles are issued through the Ohio BMV Title Bureau
- Valid photo ID is required
- Duplicate titles must also be notarized before sale
Official Ohio duplicate title information:
https://www.dmv.org/oh-ohio/title-transfers.php#Duplicate-Titles
After Selling Your Vehicle in Ohio
Once the sale is complete, follow Ohio BMV instructions regarding license plates.
Plates generally stay with the seller and may be transferred or surrendered depending on your registration status.
Need answers? Get FREE advice from our team NOW!
Curious About Your Car’s True Value?
We buy used and damaged cars right here in your area.
Check My Car Value