Selling a car in Idaho? Follow the steps below to make sure your title transfer is handled correctly and the sale holds up legally. If a dealer is buying the vehicle, talk with them before signing your title.
1. Verify Your Title
First, verify the title is registered in your name and contains no errors or alterations. A lost, stolen, or damaged title must be replaced with a duplicate through your local County Assessor's office before you can sell.
2. Notarization Is Not Required
For a standard private sale, Idaho does not require the seller's signature on the title to be notarized. The signatures of the seller and buyer on the title itself are sufficient. Notarization may be required only in special circumstances, such as when someone is signing on your behalf using a Power of Attorney. If you are unsure whether your situation requires notarization, contact the Idaho ITD directly.
3. Complete the Seller Information on the Front of the Title
The seller information section on the left-hand side of the front of the title must be filled out carefully:
- Seller's Signature: Sign in the box labeled for the seller's signature. All owners listed on the title must sign.
- Printed Name of Seller: Print your name exactly as it appears on the title.
- Buyer Information: Provide the buyer's full name and address in the designated section.
- Odometer Reading: Provide the vehicle's accurate mileage at the time of sale, ensuring this information is filled in correctly without errors. It is important to not guess this number, and record an exact mileage number.
Important: Don't use white-out, cross-outs, or any other corrections on the title — even small edits can void the title.
4. Address Liens
When the title shows a lienholder on the front, that lienholder must release the lien before ownership can transfer. Either get their signature on the title itself or have them issue a separate lien release letter — without one of those, the title cannot legally change hands.
5. Consider Multiple Owners
Multiple owners on a title? The connector between names tells you whether one or both signatures are required:
- "AND": Both owners are required to sign.
- "OR": Only one owner needs to sign.
Key Takeaways
- Notarization is not required for a standard private sale.
- Ensure all signatures match exactly as they appear on the title.
- Address any existing liens before proceeding.
By following these steps, you'll ensure a seamless transfer of ownership while staying compliant with Idaho's title regulations. For more details, consult the Idaho Transportation Department DMV page.
Verified May 2026