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How do I prepare my Washington title?
How do I prepare my Washington title?

Instructions on preparing a Washington (WA) title

Updated over a week ago

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.

Don't void your title

  • Use black or blue pen, only

  • Don't use a highlighter or white-out

  • No strikethroughs, write-overs, scribbles, or tears

  • Do not sign in the Dealer Reassignment section, unless you're an authorized dealer

**If your title design varies from the image shown below, review your title carefully before proceeding. While the signature and printed name fields may be in a different location, you will still need to print and sign your name in the appropriate areas.**
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The person(s) named on the front of the title must follow these steps:

  1. Sign the front of the title on the "Signature of Registered Owner" line and the "Signature of First Legal Owner" line.

    1. Note: Only sign on the "Signature of First Legal Owner" line if your name is listed as the Legal Owner. If there is a Lien Holder name printed as the Legal Owner, they will need to sign as the First Legal Owner.
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  2. Sign the front of the title where it reads "Signature of Transferor/Seller" in the assignment of title.

  3. Print name on the front of the title where it reads "PRINTED Name of Transferor/Seller."

    1. * Steps 2 and 3 are only required for vehicles Model Year 2011 or newer and less than 20 years old but can be completed for all vehicles.
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  4. If there's a lien listed on the title, it must be released on the title (on the "Signature of First Legal Owner" line), or accompanied by a separate lien release letter.

Signature Tips

The name(s) used to sign the title must exactly match the name(s) shown on the title. If you have changed your name since the title was issued, do not sign with your new name. Go ahead and sign with the name shown on the title.ย 

If there are two owners on the title, BOTH owners must sign. Don't worry about the Buyer line, you should leave that blank.

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