Looking for instructions on how to sign your Rhode Island (RI) car title or where to sign your Rhode Island (RI) car title? This page explains how a seller should sign their Rhode Island car title over to a buyer.
Title Alert
Your title is a legal document. Incorrectly completing your title may void it, requiring you to obtain a duplicate copy. Please read all of the instructions and tips before signing your title.
- Only use a black or blue pen.
- Do not use a highlighter or white-out.
- No strikethroughs, write-overs, scribbles, or tears are permitted.
- Unless you are an authorized dealer, do not sign in the Dealer Reassignment section.
Where do I need to sign the title?
Make sure you sign/print your name precisely as it appears on the front of your title. Do not sign with your new name if you have changed your name since the title was issued. Sign with the name that appears on the front of the title.
- SIGN your name(s) on the back of the title (top left) where it says "SIGNATURE(S) OF SELLER(S)".
- PRINT your name(s) on the back of the title (below signature) where it says "HAND PRINT NAME(S) OF SELLER(S)".
What if the car has multiple owners?
- If the title has "OR" or "AND/OR" printed between the owner names on the front, then just one owner needs to sign.
- If the title contains the words "AND" or if nothing is listed between the owner names, both owners must sign.
What if the title has a lien or a bank name on it?
- If your Rhode Island title has a lien or a bank name printed on the front, the lien holder must sign off on the title or a separate lien release letter must be obtained.
What if I do not have my Rhode Island title?
- For vehicles manufactured before 2000, the Bill of Sale can be used in place of the title.
How long does it take to get a duplicate title in Rhode Island?
- If you apply in person, you will receive a duplicate title in 7 to 10 business days.
- It will take 3 to 6 weeks if you apply by mail.
How much does it cost to get a duplicate title in Rhode Island?
- A duplicate title in Rhode Island costs $51.50.
Ready to sell your car?
Rhode Island DMV Information
-
Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles
600 New London Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920-3024 - (401) 462-4368
- Rhode Island DMV Locations (dmv.ri.gov)
- Rhode Island DMV Website (dmv.ri.gov)
If your title design differs from the example above, carefully review your title before proceeding. While the signature and printed name fields may be in different places, you must still print and sign your name in the appropriate places.
