Where do I sign a Rhode Island vehicle title?

Rhode Island vehicle titles are signed on the back of the title in the upper left corner where it is marked 'Signature(s) of Seller(s).' Sellers must sign using blue or black ink exactly as their name appears on the title.

Do all owners need to sign a Rhode Island car title?

Yes. If multiple owners are listed on a Rhode Island title, all listed owners must sign the title to transfer ownership.

Do I need a title to sell a car in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island does not require titles for vehicles model year 2000 and older. For vehicles model year 2001 and newer, a title is required. Older vehicles require a bill of sale and valid identification.

What if there is a lienholder on my Rhode Island title?

If a lienholder is listed on a Rhode Island title, the lien must be released before the vehicle can be transferred. The release may be shown on the title or provided as a separate lien release document.

How do I replace a lost or damaged Rhode Island title?

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Rhode Island title, you must apply for a duplicate title through the Rhode Island DMV. Fees apply and all listed owners must sign the application.

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

Signing Your Rhode Island Vehicle Title

Rhode Island title signing is straightforward, but mistakes can void your title and force you to request a duplicate. Always use blue or black ink and sign your name exactly as it appears on the title.

What Will Void a Rhode Island Title

Signing in the wrong section
Using white-out, correction tape, or highlighters
Cross-outs, erasing, or writing over mistakes
Signatures that do not match the printed name on the title
Torn, damaged, or altered titles
Signing in the dealer reassignment section if you are not a dealer

If your title is voided, the Rhode Island DMV will require a duplicate title before the vehicle can be sold.

Selling a Car in Rhode Island With LetGoRide

Rhode Island title transfers must be completed correctly to avoid delays or rejected paperwork. This guide explains where to sign your title, common mistakes that can void it, and how to replace a lost or damaged Rhode Island title without issues.

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Where to Sign a Rhode Island Title

Flip the title over and sign in the upper left section on the back where it is marked “Signature(s) of Seller(s)”.

Print your name directly below where it reads “Hand Printed Name(s) of Seller(s)”.

Leave the buyer section blank unless instructed otherwise by the Rhode Island DMV.

Vehicles With Multiple Owners

If more than one owner is listed on the Rhode Island title, all listed owners must sign to complete the transfer.

Titles Showing a Lienholder

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

Lien release signed directly on the title, or
Official lien release letter from the lender

Without a lien release, the DMV will not process the title transfer.

Selling a Vehicle Without a Title in Rhode Island

Rhode Island does not require titles for vehicles model year 2000 and older.

For vehicles 2001 and newer, a title is required to sell the vehicle. If the title is lost, a duplicate title must be obtained from the Rhode Island DMV.

Official Rhode Island DMV title information is available here:

http://www.dmv.ri.gov/registrations/titles/index.php