How To Sign Your Tennessee Title
This guide shows you exactly how to sign your Tennessee vehicle title correctly, including step-by-step instructions for single and multiple owners. Whether you’re in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville, or anywhere else in the state, the information here will walk you through the process with ease. You’ll also find direct access to state resources, official forms and contact details that make your donation straightforward, secure and ready to move ahead without delays.
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 title where it says “Hand Printed Name(s) by Seller(s)”.
- Sign your name (or names)* on the title where it says “ Signature(s) of All Seller(s)”.
To help with your donation, we have showcased the various Tennessee 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 Tennessee Government Links & Contact Info
With the official links provided, you can complete your Tennessee title transfer faster. Easily locate your county title office, review details about your vehicle, learn the steps for handling unclaimed or abandoned cars and find clear answers to frequently asked questions. You can even download the necessary forms directly, saving yourself time by keeping everything you need in one convenient place.
- County Title Offices
- Obtain Vehicle Specific Information
- Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles
- Vehicle Title FAQs
- Vehicle Title Forms
Contact the Tennessee Department of Revenue – Vehicle Services Division: (888) 871-3171
Contact the Tennessee Department of Revenue – Vehicle Services Division (Title and Registration): (888) 871-3171, option 1.
Tennessee 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 pen 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!
How Does a Title Transfer Work When Donating a Vehicle?
When you donate a vehicle in Tennessee, you’ll need to sign the title over to the charity receiving the donation. This involves completing the assignment section on the back of the title, including your signature, printed name and the odometer reading. Goodwill Car Donations or another authorized representative will then take care of submitting the signed title and handling the rest of the paperwork with the state. Once the transfer is complete, you’re released from ownership and liability.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Handling a Title?
The most common errors include forgetting to sign in the correct spot, leaving the odometer disclosure blank or using correction fluid or cross-outs, which can invalidate the document. Another mistake is not ensuring that all owners listed on the title have signed. Always use blue or black ink and write your name exactly as it appears on the title to prevent delays.
How Can You Replace a Lost or Damaged Tennessee Title?
If your title is lost, stolen or damaged, you’ll need to request a duplicate before making a donation. This can be done by submitting a Duplicate Title Application (Form RV-F1315201) through your local county clerk’s office and paying the applicable fee. Once the duplicate is issued, you can sign and complete the transfer.
Last Updated: October 6th, 2025