step 1: Locate the Correct Spot for SignatureOn the Minnesota car title, there will be a designated area marked for the seller’s signature. This area is located on the front of the title (the green side) on the left.
Step 2: Sign the Title
Use your legal name as it appears on the title when signing. If the vehicle is owned by more than one person all parties must sign.
Step 3: Lien Release
If the title of your car in Minnesota shows that a bank or someone else has a financial claim on it (this is called a lien), then that bank or person needs to officially agree (by signing the title or giving you a letter) to remove their claim before you can do anything with the title (this is called a lien release). In Minnesota these can come in a variety of forms such as a small postcard signed by the lien holder or a notarized document from the bank.
Important Tips
No Erasures or Whiteouts: Minnesota law may invalidate any title with erasures, whiteouts, or alterations. If a mistake is made, you may need to obtain a duplicate title.
Double-Check: Before handing the title over to the buyer, double-check all the information for accuracy and completeness. This includes your signature, the buyer’s information, and the odometer reading.
After Signing the Title
Once you’ve signed the title and filled out the necessary sections:
- Report the sale of the vehicle to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. This can often be done online and is an important step for releasing you from future liability for the vehicle.
Duplicate Title
If you need to request a replacement title from the DMV, simply follow these steps:
- Complete a Duplicate Title Form.
- Take the completed form to your local DMV office.
- Pay a fee of $22.50, and you should receive the title in the mail within approximately 3 weeks or they may be able to issue a title at time of request.
Power of Attorney
Like in other states like Wisconsin, by executing a Limited Power of Attorney (POA), you authorize us to amend any mistakes on the title without needing your direct endorsement again. This POA is strictly for actions related to the specified title, such as filling in a missing endorsement or making corrections requested by the DMV. Therefore, by signing this POA, you are not granting us any additional authority beyond these specified conditions.
Source: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/Pages/motor-vehicle-fees.aspx
Minnesota DMV
Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services
445 Minnesota Street, Suite 190 Town Square Building
Saint Paul MN 55101-5190
