Homepage > Blank Notarized Odometer Statement Template
Article Structure

When it comes to buying or selling a vehicle, ensuring transparency about the vehicle's mileage is crucial. The Notarized Odometer Statement form serves as a key document in this process, providing a legally recognized declaration of the odometer reading at the time of transfer. This form not only includes essential details such as the vehicle's make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), but it also requires the notarization of the statement, which adds an extra layer of authenticity. The statement is typically filled out by the seller, who must provide the current mileage and affirm their identity in front of a notary public. This process helps protect both the buyer and seller from potential disputes regarding the vehicle's history. Additionally, the form captures the date of the transaction, ensuring that all parties are clear about when the mileage was recorded. By adhering to this procedure, individuals can foster trust and accountability in their vehicle transactions.

Form Sample

ODOMETER DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

I, ____________________________, a Notary Public in the state of ______________________,

in the county of _________________, have personally verified the mileage of _______________

(miles) on this__________ (year) ________________ (make) _________________ (model)

_____________________________ (VIN) belonging to ____________________________ on

this _______ day of _____________, 20____. _______________________________, owner,

personally appeared and proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person whose name is subscribed to within this instrument.

__________________________________

___________________

Registered Owner

Date

S

 

E

________________________________

 

Notary Public

A

 

 

My commission expires on ____________________

L

 

Document Specifications

Fact Name Description
Purpose The Notarized Odometer Statement is used to certify the mileage of a vehicle at the time of sale.
Notary Requirement This form must be signed in the presence of a Notary Public to ensure authenticity.
State-Specific Forms Different states may have their own versions of the form, following state-specific laws.
Governing Law In many states, the use of this form is governed by the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC).
Vehicle Information The form requires detailed information about the vehicle, including make, model, and VIN.
Owner Verification The owner must personally appear before the Notary and provide satisfactory evidence of identity.
Date of Sale The form includes the date of the transaction, which is important for record-keeping.
Legal Implications Falsifying information on the form can lead to legal consequences, including fines or penalties.
Commission Expiration The Notary must indicate their commission expiration date, ensuring they are authorized to notarize.
Record Keeping Both the seller and buyer should keep a copy of the notarized statement for their records.

Steps to Filling Out Notarized Odometer Statement

Once you have the Notarized Odometer Statement form, you will need to complete it accurately. This form is essential for documenting the mileage of a vehicle during a sale or transfer. Follow these steps to fill it out correctly.

  1. Begin by writing your name as the Notary Public in the first blank line.
  2. In the next blank, indicate the state where you are commissioned as a Notary Public.
  3. Fill in the county where you are located in the following blank line.
  4. Next, enter the mileage of the vehicle in the space provided.
  5. Specify the year of the vehicle in the designated blank.
  6. Write the make of the vehicle in the next blank line.
  7. Enter the model of the vehicle in the following blank.
  8. Provide the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the appropriate space.
  9. Identify the registered owner of the vehicle by writing their name in the next blank line.
  10. Fill in the date when the statement is being signed.
  11. Have the registered owner sign their name in the designated area.
  12. As the Notary Public, sign your name in the next blank line.
  13. Finally, indicate the expiration date of your commission in the last blank space.

More About Notarized Odometer Statement

What is a Notarized Odometer Statement?

A Notarized Odometer Statement is a legal document that certifies the mileage of a vehicle at the time of sale. This form is typically required when transferring ownership of a vehicle to ensure transparency and prevent odometer fraud. The statement must be completed and signed in the presence of a notary public, who verifies the information and the identity of the seller.

Why do I need a Notarized Odometer Statement?

This statement is crucial for protecting both the buyer and the seller. It provides a record of the vehicle’s mileage at the time of transfer, which can be important for determining the vehicle’s value and for future resale. Many states require this document as part of the vehicle registration process to ensure compliance with odometer disclosure laws.

Who can complete the Notarized Odometer Statement?

The statement must be completed by the vehicle owner or seller. Once filled out, a notary public will need to witness the signing of the document. The notary verifies the identity of the signer and ensures that the information provided is accurate before affixing their seal to the document.

What information is required on the form?

The form requires specific details, including the vehicle's mileage, year, make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Additionally, the owner's name and the date of the transaction must be included. This information helps establish a clear record of the vehicle's history.

How do I find a notary public?

Notaries can often be found at banks, law offices, or public libraries. Many notaries also offer mobile services, meaning they can come to you. It's a good idea to call ahead and confirm their availability, as well as any fees they may charge for notarization services.

Is there a fee for notarizing the Odometer Statement?

Yes, there is usually a fee for notarization, which can vary depending on the notary public and your location. Some states have set maximum fees that notaries can charge, while others allow notaries to set their own rates. It’s advisable to inquire about the fee before your appointment.

What should I do after completing the Notarized Odometer Statement?

Once the Notarized Odometer Statement is completed and signed in front of a notary, both the buyer and the seller should keep a copy for their records. The seller may need to submit the original statement to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the relevant authority when transferring the vehicle title. Always check your local regulations to ensure compliance.

Common mistakes

  1. Failing to provide accurate mileage. It's essential to ensure that the mileage recorded on the form matches the actual mileage of the vehicle. Inaccurate information can lead to legal issues.

  2. Not having the form notarized correctly. The signature of the Notary Public must be present, along with the date and commission expiration. Without these, the document may not be valid.

  3. Omitting important vehicle details. Each section, including the year, make, model, and VIN, must be filled out completely. Missing information can delay the process or cause complications.

  4. Not signing the form. The registered owner must sign the document in front of the Notary Public. If this step is overlooked, the form will not be accepted.

  5. Using an outdated version of the form. Always ensure you are using the most current version of the Notarized Odometer Statement form to avoid any issues with compliance.

Documents used along the form

When transferring ownership of a vehicle, several important documents accompany the Notarized Odometer Statement form. Each plays a crucial role in ensuring the transaction is clear and legally binding. Here’s a brief overview of these forms and documents.

  • Title Certificate: This document proves ownership of the vehicle. It includes details like the vehicle identification number (VIN) and the owner's name. When selling a car, the title must be signed over to the new owner.
  • Bill of Sale: This is a receipt that confirms the sale of the vehicle. It includes the sale price, date, and signatures from both the buyer and seller. It serves as proof of the transaction.
  • Vehicle Registration: This document shows that the vehicle is registered with the state. It must be updated to reflect the new owner after a sale.
  • Emissions Certificate: Some states require proof that the vehicle meets emissions standards. This certificate is necessary for registration in those areas.
  • Insurance Card: Proof of insurance is often required before a vehicle can be registered. This card shows that the new owner has valid coverage.
  • Power of Attorney: If someone is handling the sale on behalf of the owner, this document gives them the authority to sign necessary papers. It ensures that the transaction is valid and recognized.
  • VIN Verification Form: This form confirms the vehicle's identification number. It can be especially important for used cars to ensure the VIN matches the title and registration.

Having these documents ready can streamline the process of transferring vehicle ownership. Each one serves a specific purpose, helping to protect both the buyer and seller in the transaction.

Similar forms

The Bill of Sale serves as a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of a vehicle from one party to another. Like the Notarized Odometer Statement, it includes essential details such as the buyer's and seller's information, the vehicle's make, model, and VIN. This document often requires signatures from both parties, confirming the sale and providing proof of the transaction, similar to how the Notarized Odometer Statement verifies mileage at the time of sale.

The Vehicle Title is another critical document in vehicle ownership. It establishes who legally owns the vehicle and contains vital information such as the VIN, make, model, and year. Similar to the Notarized Odometer Statement, the title may require notarization when being transferred to ensure authenticity and prevent fraud. Both documents serve to protect the interests of buyers and sellers in the vehicle transaction process.

The Application for Title is used when a new owner seeks to obtain a title for a vehicle. This document requests information about the vehicle and its previous ownership. Like the Notarized Odometer Statement, it requires accurate details about the vehicle's mileage and identification of the previous owner. Both documents help ensure that the transfer of ownership is recorded correctly with the state’s motor vehicle department.

The Lien Release is a document that indicates a lien on a vehicle has been satisfied. This is similar to the Notarized Odometer Statement in that it provides assurance to the new owner that the vehicle is free from any financial encumbrances. Both documents are essential during the sale process, as they clarify the vehicle's status and help prevent future disputes regarding ownership and liability.

The Power of Attorney for Vehicle Transactions allows one person to act on behalf of another in matters related to vehicle ownership. This document can be notarized, similar to the Notarized Odometer Statement, ensuring that the authority granted is legitimate. Both documents serve to facilitate the transfer of ownership and responsibilities associated with the vehicle, protecting the rights of all parties involved.

The Vehicle Registration is a document that proves a vehicle is registered with the state. It includes similar information to the Notarized Odometer Statement, such as the VIN and owner details. While the registration does not verify mileage, it is essential for legal operation on public roads. Both documents are crucial in establishing the vehicle's legal status and ownership history.

The Insurance Policy Declaration Page outlines the coverage details for a vehicle. While it does not directly relate to the transfer of ownership, it is important for verifying that a vehicle is insured, similar to how the Notarized Odometer Statement verifies mileage. Both documents are necessary for ensuring that a vehicle is legally compliant and protected against potential liabilities.

The Vehicle History Report provides a comprehensive overview of a vehicle's past, including accidents, title changes, and mileage records. This document complements the Notarized Odometer Statement by offering additional context regarding the vehicle's condition and history. Both documents work together to provide transparency and assurance to potential buyers about the vehicle's status.

The Dealer Invoice is a document that outlines the sale price and details of a vehicle purchased from a dealership. Similar to the Notarized Odometer Statement, it includes key information about the vehicle and the transaction. Both documents serve as proof of the sale and help establish the legitimacy of the vehicle's ownership and condition at the time of purchase.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Notarized Odometer Statement form, it is crucial to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do provide accurate mileage information. Double-check the odometer reading before writing it down.
  • Do fill in all required fields completely. Missing information can lead to delays or issues.
  • Do ensure that the vehicle's make, model, and VIN are correct. Errors can complicate the verification process.
  • Do sign the form in the presence of a notary public. This step is essential for the document to be valid.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This can be helpful in case of disputes.
  • Don't rush through the form. Take your time to avoid mistakes.
  • Don't leave any fields blank. Every section must be filled out to ensure the form is complete.
  • Don't provide false information. This can lead to legal consequences.
  • Don't forget to check the expiration date of the notary's commission. An expired commission can invalidate your document.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your Notarized Odometer Statement is filled out correctly and is legally binding.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Notarized Odometer Statement form can lead to confusion when buying or selling a vehicle. Here are four common misunderstandings:

  • Notarization is optional. Many believe that notarization is not necessary for an odometer disclosure. However, certain states require a notarized statement to ensure the authenticity of the mileage reported.
  • Any notary can complete the form. Some think that any notary public can notarize the odometer statement. In reality, the notary must be authorized in the state where the transaction occurs, and they must verify the identity of the vehicle owner.
  • The form is only for used vehicles. A common misconception is that the notarized odometer statement is only needed for used cars. In fact, this form can be required for both new and used vehicles to disclose the mileage accurately.
  • It’s a one-time requirement. Many assume that once they complete the odometer statement, they are done. However, if the vehicle changes ownership multiple times, a new notarized statement may be necessary each time to ensure accurate record-keeping.

Understanding these misconceptions can help streamline the vehicle transfer process and ensure compliance with state laws.

Key takeaways

Filling out and utilizing the Notarized Odometer Statement form is essential for vehicle transactions. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

  • The form must be completed accurately to ensure the legitimacy of the mileage disclosure.
  • Personal verification of the mileage is required, which involves the notary confirming the odometer reading.
  • Details such as the vehicle's year, make, model, and VIN must be clearly stated on the form.
  • The name of the vehicle owner should be legibly printed and signed in the designated area.
  • The notary public must include their name, commission details, and the expiration date of their commission.
  • Both the owner and the notary should retain copies of the completed form for their records.
  • Submitting the notarized statement is often necessary for the registration process and can help prevent future disputes regarding mileage.