Signing Your Tennessee Vehicle Title
Tennessee title transfers are straightforward, but accuracy is critical. Always use blue or black ink only and sign your name exactly as it appears on the title. Any mistake can void the title and delay the sale.
What Will Void a Tennessee Title
- Signing in the wrong section
- Signature that does not match the name on the title
- Cross-outs, erasing, or writing over mistakes
- White-out or correction fluid
- Rips, tears, or damaged titles
- Using pencil or marker instead of ink
If any of these occur, the Tennessee County Clerk may require a duplicate title before the vehicle can be sold.
Selling a Car in Tennessee With LetGoRide
Tennessee 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 Tennessee title without issues.
- No pressure or dealership runaround
- Free pickup anywhere in Oklahoma
- Offers reviewed by real people
Where to Sign a Tennessee Title
Flip the title over and sign on the back of the title where it is labeled “Signature and Address of Seller(s)”.
Print your name where it reads “Seller(s) Name (Hand Printed)”.
Do not sign anywhere else unless instructed by the Tennessee County Clerk.
Vehicles with Multiple Owners
If more than one owner appears on the Tennessee 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 – Only one owner must sign
- Owner 1 AND Owner 2 – Both owners must sign
- No conjunction listed – Both owners must sign
Titles Showing a Lienholder
If a lienholder is listed on the title, the lien must be released before ownership can be transferred.
- Lien release noted directly on the title
- Or an official lien release letter from the lender
Without a lien release, the County Clerk will not process the title transfer.
Replacing a Lost or Damaged Tennessee Title
If your Tennessee title is lost, stolen, damaged, or voided, you must obtain a duplicate title before selling the vehicle.
- Duplicate titles are issued through the County Clerk’s Office
- All listed owners may be required to sign
- Fees and processing times vary by county
Official instructions and forms are available through the Tennessee Department of Revenue or your local County Clerk.
After Selling Your Vehicle in Tennessee
Once the sale is complete, remove your license plates before releasing the vehicle.
Tennessee plates stay with the seller and may be transferred to another vehicle or surrendered according to county instructions.
Do I Keep My License Plates?
Yes. Tennessee requires sellers to remove their license plates before handing the vehicle over to the buyer.
For additional titling and registration guidance, visit your local County Clerk or the Tennessee Department of Revenue website.
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