To secure a title for new vehicles, boats, or outboard motors, applicants must have a completed Ohio application, a Manufacturer Certificate of Origin (MCO), the odometer statement, the selling price, and all required fees.

To secure a title for used vehicles, boats, or outboard motors, the previous owner's properly assigned title with the selling price and mileage is needed.

If the vehicle, boat, or outboard motor is being financed, a copy of the security agreement must accompany all required forms.

SELLING A VEHICLE 
When you sell a vehicle, do not fill out the assignment on the reverse side of the Certificate of Title until an actual sale has been made. Make certain that you know the proper name and address of the buyer before making the assignment. As the seller, you are required to state the actual purchase price and the odometer reading of the vehicle. You must sign the title exactly as the title was issued to you and your signature must be notarized.

If the title was issued before December 10, 1977, a seller's odometer affidavit MUST be executed by the seller. This affidavit MUST be notarized. These forms are also available at most banks.

State and Federal Law require that an odometer statement be completed on most vehicle title transactions. The new Ohio Certificate of Title has the necessary statement on the reverse side. The older, yellow titles require a separate statement which can be obtained from our office.

BUYING A VEHICLE 
An Ohio dealer is required to provide you with your new title within 30 days of purchase. Ensure that the dealer has your name exactly as you want it to appear on your title.

If you buy a car from an individual, you are responsible for the transfer of the title. The title must be obtained in the county in which you reside. Do not complete any part of the assignment or application on the reverse side of the title unless it is done before a Notary Public. All signatures must be notarized.

Never make any alterations or erasures on a Certificate of Title; if this is done, the title becomes null and void and a replacement title will have to be applied for.

Do not fill in any part of the assignment or application on the reverse side of the title, unless it is done in the presence of a Notary Public or other duly authorized officer with power to administer oaths. All signatures must be sworn to.

If your title was issued before December 10, 1977, a seller's odometer affidavit must be executed by the seller. This affidavit must be notarized. These forms are also available at most banks.

Always make a physical inspection of any automobile you buy. Make sure that the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) on the Car and Title match.

When you have paid off your mortgage, the bank or finance company will discharge the lien on your Certificate of Title and forward it to you. The lien should be discharged and there should be a stamp on the title from the Clerk Of Courts Office that states "LIEN CANCELLED".