UPDATE: Goodwill Car Donations is currently accepting vehicle donations. Call 866-233-8586 to schedule an unattended FREE pickup. To learn what actions we are taking to ensure you are protected when you donate a vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations, please click here.
Before you complete your vehicle donation, it’s important to sign your Virginia title correctly. This page shows you exactly how to do it — step by step. You’ll learn where to sign and print your name, how to handle signatures for multiple owners, and what to do if the vehicle owner is deceased. We’ve included examples of real Virginia titles so you can double-check authenticity and avoid mistakes. If you’re an executor or handling a special title case, we’ve got tips and links to help. Just follow the instructions, use the right pen, and you’ll be done in minutes.
The person (or persons)* listed on the front of the title must follow these steps, unless otherwise noted:
- Sign your name (or names)* on the back of the title where it says, “Signature of Seller(s)”.
- Print your name (or names)* on the back of the title where it says, “Printed Name of Seller(s)”.
To help with your donation, we have showcased the various Virginia 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 Virginia Government Links & Contact Info
- County Title Offices
- Obtain Vehicle Specific Information
- Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles
- Vehicle Title FAQs
- Vehicle Title Forms
Contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles: (804) 497-7100
Contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles – Title Division: (804) 497-7100
Virginia 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 chart below 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 instructions below 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!
How does the signing process differ for titles with power of attorney or executors of an estate?
If you’re signing under Power of Attorney or as an executor of a person’s estate, you must include legal documentation showing your authority. This may include the original Power of Attorney form or court-issued executor papers. Sign your name followed by your role — for example, “John Smith, POA for Jane Doe.” This ensures clarity and protects the authenticity of your donation paperwork.
What steps should you take if the title has a lienholder listed?
Before transferring the title, any listed lien must be released. This typically requires a separate lien release letter or stamp from the lienholder. If the lien has been paid off, contact the lender to obtain proper documentation. You can’t complete a donation until the lien is cleared and the title is fully in your name.
Are there any special considerations for signing a title for a vehicle being sold out of state?
If you’re donating a vehicle in Virginia that will be registered in another state, follow Virginia’s title instructions but double-check with the out-of-state DMV. Some states require additional forms or notarized signatures. For the donation process, we’ll handle all shipping and transfer details, but it helps to make sure your paperwork is accurate before pick-up.
What documentation is required to transfer a title if the original owner is deceased?
If the vehicle owner is deceased, the title must be signed by the legal representative of the estate — usually an executor. You’ll need to submit a copy of the death certificate along with proof of your legal authority, like Letters Testamentary. This ensures the title transfer is valid and that the donation meets state requirements.
How can you verify the authenticity of a Virginia vehicle title before signing?
To confirm your title’s authenticity, look for key details like the watermark, state seal, and correct VIN. Compare your title to the samples on this page. If anything looks altered or doesn’t match the official design, call the DMV or our Title Clerks at (866) 233-8586. Verifying authenticity helps avoid delays and protects your donation.
Ready to Sign and Donate?
Have more questions about your Virginia title or vehicle donation? Contact Goodwill Car Donations today. Our friendly team is ready to help guide you through every step of the process.
Last Updated: August 25th, 2025