Here's how to sign your Alabama vehicle title correctly so the ownership transfer is valid and binding. If you're selling to a dealership, consult with them first before completing the title.
1. Verify Your Title
Before you begin, ensure that the title is in your name and free of errors. If your title is lost, stolen, or damaged, you'll need to apply for a duplicate title through your local Alabama license plate issuing office before proceeding.
2. Notarization Is Not Required
In a standard private sale, Alabama does not require notarization of the seller's signature on the title. Both parties simply need to sign the title itself. Notarization is generally only needed in unusual cases, such as when a representative is signing under a Power of Attorney — contact the Alabama Motor Vehicle Division if you're uncertain.
3. Complete the Seller Information on the Back of the Title
On the reverse side of the title, you'll find the seller's section that needs to be completed accurately:
- Seller's Signature: Sign in the box labeled for the seller's signature. All owners listed on the title must sign.
- Printed Name of Seller: Print your name exactly as it appears on the title.
- Buyer Information: Provide the buyer's full name and address in the designated section.
- Odometer Reading: Provide the vehicle's accurate mileage at the time of sale, ensuring this information is filled in correctly without errors. It is important to not guess this number, and record an exact mileage number.
Important: Avoid making corrections, using white-out, or crossing out information, as this will invalidate the title.
4. Address Liens
Any active lien listed on the title must be cleared before the sale can complete. The lienholder either needs to sign off on the title or supply a lien release letter. Don't attempt to transfer the title until this is resolved.
5. Consider Multiple Owners
If there are multiple names listed on the title, all parties must sign, depending on how the names are joined:
- "AND": Both owners are required to sign.
- "OR": Only one owner needs to sign.
Important: Effective 2024, Alabama no longer titles vehicles 35 model years old or older. For these older vehicles, ownership is transferred without a title using a bill of sale and the prior registration.
Key Takeaways
- Notarization is not required for a standard private sale.
- Ensure all signatures match exactly as they appear on the title.
- Address any existing liens before proceeding.
These steps cover the Alabama title-signing process for a standard sale. For deeper guidance and any state-specific exceptions, refer to the Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division page.
Verified May 2026