How To Sign Your Alabama Title
This guide will show you how to correctly sign your Alabama vehicle title so your donation process is smooth and stress-free. Step-by-step visuals highlight exactly where to print and sign your name, making the process clear and easy to follow. Be sure to use blue or black ink only and avoid crossing out information or adding extra marks that could invalidate the document.
You’ll also find guidance on what to do if multiple owners are listed on the title, including who needs to sign depending on how the names appear. For added support, we’ve included helpful pictures and phone numbers with official links so you can quickly get more information or confirm details as needed.
The person (or persons)* listed on the front of the title must follow these steps, unless otherwise noted:
- Print your name (or names)* on the back of the title where it says “Seller’s Printed Name”.
- Sign your name (or names)* on the back of the title where it says “Seller’s Signature”.
To help with your donation, we have showcased the various Alabama vehicle titles below as well as annotated on each title where to print and sign your name. To enlarge an image, simply click on the image. Questions? Give one of our friendly Title Clerks a call at (866) 233-8586.
Note: Actual title designs may vary slightly from the images shown above.
Official Alabama Government Links & Contact Info
You’ll find useful links and contact information here to make transferring your Alabama vehicle title simple. These resources provide quick access to forms, helpful answers and office details you may need.
- County Title Offices
- Obtain Vehicle Specific Information
- Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles
- Vehicle Title FAQs
- Vehicle Title Forms
Contact the Alabama Department of Revenue – Motor Vehicle Division: (334) 242-9000
Contact the Alabama Department of Revenue – Title Division: (334) 242-9000
Alabama Vehicle Titles: How To For Multiple Owners
If there is more than one owner listed on the title, one or both must sign it depending on how the names appear. See the below chart for details.
Remember, the name used to sign the title must match the name shown on the title exactly. Therefore, always remember to print/sign your name exactly as it is shown on the title.
|
John Doe OR Jane Doe |
If “OR” is present between the names, only one of the owners must sign the title. |
|
John Doe AND/OR Jane Doe |
If “AND/OR” is present between the names, both owners must sign the title. |
|
John Doe AND Jane Doe |
If “AND” is present between the names, both owners must sign the title. |
|
John Doe Jane Doe |
If there is nothing present between the names, both owners must sign the title. |
Please take note to adhere to the below instructions so as not to void your title.
- Do not use markers or pencils. Only blue or black pens are allowed.
- Do not cross out or strikethrough any text or writing.
- Do not use white-out or similar substances.
- Do not rip, tear, or tape the title.
- Do not doodle on the title.
Still Have Questions? Find Your Answer Below!
In Alabama, a title transfer is required not only when selling a vehicle but also in several other scenarios. These include gifting a car to another person, donating a vehicle to charity, inheriting a vehicle from a deceased owner, or transferring ownership due to divorce or other court orders. A transfer is also necessary when moving to Alabama with an out-of-state vehicle to ensure the title is properly recorded in the state.
The most common errors involve missing or incorrect signatures, failing to complete the odometer disclosure, or using white-out or cross-outs that invalidate the document. Another frequent mistake is not having all required parties sign when more than one owner is listed on the title. People also often forget to remove license plates, which must stay with the seller in Alabama, not the buyer. These errors can delay processing and create unnecessary legal complications.
The Alabama Department of Revenue typically processes vehicle title transfers within two to six weeks. However, if the application is submitted in person at a county licensing office, you may receive confirmation more quickly. Mailing applications or submitting forms with errors can extend processing times. Using an approved title service or ensuring all documents are complete can help expedite the process.
Buyers are required to apply for a new title within 20 calendar days of purchasing or otherwise acquiring a vehicle. Failing to do so can result in late fees and additional penalties. More importantly, driving a vehicle without a properly transferred title can complicate insurance coverage, registration and even lead to fines if the vehicle is pulled over. For sellers, failing to properly transfer the title leaves them vulnerable to liability if the car is involved in accidents or violations after the sale.
If your title has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you must request a duplicate before completing any transfer. To do this, submit an Application for Replacement Title (Form MVT-12-1) to the Alabama Department of Revenue, along with the required fee. Duplicate titles are generally issued within a few weeks. Once you have the replacement, you can proceed with signing and transferring ownership as usual.
When the vehicle owner has passed away, the process for transferring the title depends on whether the estate is being probated. If probate is underway, the executor or administrator can transfer the vehicle with supporting court documents. If no probate is required, heirs may use an affidavit and the death certificate to establish legal authority for the transfer. It’s important to confirm the specific documentation required with your local probate court or county office before attempting to sign the title.
If you have questions about signing or transferring your Alabama vehicle title, the team at Goodwill Car Donations is here to help. Contact us today for expert guidance so your car donation can move forward quickly and smoothly.
Last Updated: September 3rd, 2025