Transferring vehicle ownership in Wisconsin requires a few specific steps to keep the sale legal and clean. If you are selling to a dealer, check with them first before signing anything on the 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 the Wisconsin DMV before you can sell.
2. Notarization Is Not Required
Wisconsin does not require the seller's signature to be notarized for a typical private sale. The signatures of both the seller and buyer on the title are enough. Notarization usually only comes into play in unique situations like a Power of Attorney signing. If you're not sure whether yours qualifies, reach out to the Wisconsin DMV.
3. Complete the Seller Information on the Back of the Title
The back of the title contains a section for seller information that 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: Resist the urge to fix mistakes with white-out or cross-outs. Any corrections on the title will void the document.
4. Address Liens
If a lienholder is listed on the front of your title, you'll need their authorization to proceed. Ensure the lienholder has signed off on the title or provides a separate lien release letter. This step must be completed before the title can legally transfer to a new owner.
5. Consider Multiple Owners
Title with more than one name on it? How the names are joined determines who has to sign off on the sale:
- "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.
Sticking to this process keeps your Wisconsin sale legal and prevents costly title rejections. For more information, see the Wisconsin DMV vehicle title and plates page.
Verified May 2026