Where to Sign the California Car Title When Selling a Car Privately
Where to Sign
Be sure to write clearly and sign/print your name exactly as spelled on the front of your title. Avoid white-out, scribbles, and strike-throughs.
- Front of title - on line 1a, sign above "Signature of Registered Owner"
- Front of title - below odometer section sign in the box where it reads "Transferor/ Seller Signature(s)"
Multiple Owners
Only one owner must sign if the title states “OR” between the owner names printed on the front of the title.
Both owners must sign if title states “AND” or “AND/OR” between owner names, or if nothing is listed between owner names.
Lien or Bank Name on Title
If your California title shows a lien or a bank name printed on the front, then your title will need to be signed off by the lien holder or have a separate lien release letter.
No Title In Hand
If your car was last titled in California, then we may be able to help you out. Please call us: (310) 893-0162
Blank bill of sale for California:
California-Specific Mistakes to Avoid
- X Seller signing the back instead of the front
- X Missing seller signature on front → DMV rejection
- X Cross-outs or white-out → invalid title
- X Name mismatch (nicknames, missing middle initials, etc.)
Duplicate Time in Person
Duplicate Time by Mail
2 to 6 Weeks
Duplicate Cost
California DMV
Department of Motor Vehicles Vehicle
Registration Operations
P.O. Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269
