Signing Titles in Ohio
🚗 Signing Titles in Ohio: What Every Car Seller Needs to Know (And Why It’s Easier Than You Think)
It was 6:45 p.m. on a Tuesday when I got a call from Jason in Bowling Green.
He had just sold his old Chevy Silverado — a clean, cash deal. The buyer was on his way with the money in hand. There was just one problem: neither of them realized the title had to be notarized before the sale was official. The buyer wasn’t handing over a single dollar until that signature was stamped. Jason was panicked.
No banks were open. His go-to notary friend was out of town. “Is it even legal to do this tonight?” he asked.
That’s when I told him: “Absolutely. I’m a mobile notary — I can meet you both at your kitchen table in 20 minutes.”
Why You Need a Notarized Title in Ohio
In Ohio, vehicle titles must be notarized to legally transfer ownership. That notarization makes your signature official — confirming that you, the seller, signed the title willingly and that the information is accurate. Without it, the sale isn’t valid in the eyes of the BMV, and the buyer won’t be able to register the vehicle.
Here’s where many people get tripped up:
It’s not enough to sign the title.
Your signature must be witnessed and stamped by a commissioned notary public.
If you sign the title before the notary sees it, you’ll likely need to go to the title office for a duplicate — a frustrating, costly delay in what should be a simple sale.
What You Need to Bring
Whether I’m meeting you in your driveway, a coffee shop, or your garage, here’s what both the seller and buyer should have ready:
✅ The original vehicle title (no copies or scans)
✅ A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID for all signers
✅ The buyer’s full name and address
✅ Odometer reading
✅ Purchase price (write this clearly on the title)
It’s okay if you're not 100% sure where to sign — that’s part of my job. I guide both parties step-by-step so no detail is missed. You only sign in front of me.
Common Questions I Hear (And the Real Answers)
"Can I sign the title ahead of time?"
Nope. Please wait until I arrive. I must witness you signing for it to be valid.
"What if the buyer is bringing cash?"
Totally fine. I don’t handle money, but I’ll ensure the paperwork is in order so the sale is airtight.
"I work odd hours. Can we do this at night or on the weekend?"
Yes! I’m a 100% mobile notary — evenings, weekends, holidays, lunch breaks, you name it.
"What if I lost my title?"
You’ll need to request a duplicate from the BMV before the sale can be completed. I can’t notarize a sale without the original title.
Why Mobile Notarization Is a Game-Changer
Jason’s story isn’t unique. I’ve helped dozens of clients after-hours — sometimes in the rain, sometimes in snow — complete title transfers on the spot. When you’re selling a vehicle, timing matters. No one wants to wait days just to find a notary at the bank (if they even do titles), and the buyer rarely wants to make a second trip.
That’s where Grand Rapids OH Notary Public LLC comes in.
I bring the stamp, the knowledge, and the peace of mind — to you. Wherever you are in Grand Rapids, Bowling Green, Napoleon, Perrysburg, or surrounding areas, I show up ready to notarize, day or night.
Final Tips to Keep Your Sale Smooth
Double-check the name on your ID matches the name on the title
Don’t use white-out or scribble corrections — call me if you make a mistake
Schedule in advance if possible, but don’t hesitate to reach out last-minute
Keep the mood friendly — this is a legal transaction, but it doesn’t have to be stressful
Selling a car in Ohio? Don’t let one missing stamp stall your deal.
Call or text me today — I’ll come to you, title in hand, and get it done right.
📞 419-830-8465
🌐 grandrapidsohnotary.com
