Free Notarized Odometer Statement PDF Form

Free Notarized Odometer Statement PDF Form

The Notarized Odometer Statement form is a legal document used to confirm the mileage of a vehicle at the time of sale or transfer. This statement is signed by a notary public, who verifies the identity of the vehicle owner and the accuracy of the reported mileage. Such documentation is essential for preventing odometer fraud and ensuring transparency in vehicle transactions.

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When buying or selling a vehicle, ensuring transparency regarding its mileage is crucial. The Notarized Odometer Statement form plays a vital role in this process, serving as a legal document that confirms the accuracy of a vehicle's odometer reading. This form includes essential details such as the vehicle's make, model, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), alongside the recorded mileage. Not only does it require the signature of the vehicle's owner, but it also mandates the presence of a notary public, who verifies the identity of the owner and the authenticity of the information provided. This added layer of verification helps prevent odometer fraud, a serious concern in the automotive marketplace. By documenting the odometer reading at the time of transfer, both buyers and sellers can protect their interests and ensure a smoother transaction. Understanding the importance of this form and the information it contains can help you navigate the vehicle transfer process with confidence.

Notarized Odometer Statement 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 _____________, 2015. _______________________________, 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

 

Documents used along the form

The Notarized Odometer Statement is an important document in vehicle transactions, particularly when ownership is transferred. It provides a formal declaration of the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. Several other documents are often used in conjunction with this form to ensure a smooth and legally compliant transfer of ownership. Below is a list of these related documents.

  • Bill of Sale: This document serves as a receipt for the transaction, detailing the sale price, date, and the parties involved. It confirms the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer.
  • Title Certificate: The title certificate proves ownership of the vehicle. It must be signed over by the seller to the buyer, indicating the change in ownership.
  • Application for Title: This form is submitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to officially register the new owner. It typically requires information from the bill of sale and the title certificate.
  • Vehicle History Report: This report provides details about the vehicle’s past, including accidents, repairs, and previous ownership. It can help buyers make informed decisions about their purchase.
  • Notice to Quit Form: This legal document, similar in importance to the other forms listed, is crucial for landlords and tenants to understand the eviction process. For more information, visit Illinois Templates PDF.
  • Emissions Certificate: In some states, an emissions certificate is required to confirm that the vehicle meets environmental standards. This document may be necessary for registration and transfer of ownership.
  • Power of Attorney: If the seller cannot be present to sign the documents, a power of attorney may be used. This document allows another person to sign on behalf of the seller, facilitating the transaction.

These documents work together to ensure that all aspects of the vehicle transfer process are properly documented and compliant with state regulations. Understanding each form's purpose can help both buyers and sellers navigate the complexities of vehicle ownership transfer more effectively.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Notarized Odometer Statement form, it is important to keep the following key points in mind:

  • Personal Verification: The notary public must personally verify the mileage of the vehicle listed on the form. This ensures the accuracy of the information provided.
  • Complete Information: All fields must be filled out completely. This includes the year, make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle, as well as the owner's name and the date of notarization.
  • Signature Requirement: The registered owner must sign the form in the presence of the notary. This signature confirms that the information is true to the best of their knowledge.
  • Notary's Role: The notary public plays a crucial role in the process. They must attest to the identity of the owner and ensure that the document is executed properly.
  • Expiration of Commission: The notary must indicate when their commission expires. This information is vital as it confirms the notary's authority to perform the notarization at the time of signing.

Form Overview

Fact Name Description
Purpose The Notarized Odometer Statement is used to verify the mileage of a vehicle during a sale or transfer of ownership.
Notary Requirement This form must be signed in the presence of a Notary Public to ensure authenticity and to prevent fraud.
State-Specific Forms Different states may have specific requirements or forms for odometer disclosure, governed by state laws such as the Uniform Commercial Code.
VIN Inclusion The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) must be included on the form to uniquely identify the vehicle being sold.
Owner Verification The form requires the registered owner to appear personally before the Notary and provide satisfactory evidence of identity.
Date Requirement The date of the transaction must be clearly stated, ensuring that all parties are aware of when the odometer reading was verified.
Legal Implications Providing false information on this form can lead to legal consequences, including fines or penalties for fraud.
Retention of Records Both the seller and buyer should retain a copy of the Notarized Odometer Statement for their records, as it may be needed for future reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

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. It is typically required when transferring ownership of a vehicle to ensure that the odometer reading is accurate and to prevent odometer fraud. This statement must be signed by the vehicle owner and notarized by a licensed notary public.

Why is a Notarized Odometer Statement necessary?

This statement is important for several reasons:

  • It provides a legal record of the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale.
  • It protects both the buyer and seller from potential disputes regarding the vehicle's condition and value.
  • Many states require this statement for the registration process to prevent odometer tampering.

Who needs to complete a Notarized Odometer Statement?

Typically, the seller of the vehicle is responsible for completing the Notarized Odometer Statement. However, the buyer may also request it to ensure transparency regarding the vehicle's mileage. Both parties should be aware of the document's significance in the transaction.

What information is required on the Notarized Odometer Statement?

The statement must include the following information:

  1. The name and signature of the owner.
  2. The vehicle's mileage at the time of sale.
  3. The year, make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle.
  4. The date of the notarization.
  5. The notary public's signature and commission expiration date.

How do I get a Notarized Odometer Statement?

You can obtain a Notarized Odometer Statement by following these steps:

  1. Fill out the necessary information regarding the vehicle and its mileage.
  2. Find a licensed notary public in your area. Many banks, law offices, and shipping stores offer notary services.
  3. Bring the completed form to the notary, along with identification to verify your identity.
  4. Sign the document in front of the notary, who will then notarize it.

What happens if the odometer reading is incorrect?

If the odometer reading is found to be incorrect, it can lead to legal issues for the seller. The buyer may have grounds to claim fraud or misrepresentation. It is crucial for sellers to provide accurate information on the Notarized Odometer Statement. If a mistake occurs, it should be corrected immediately, and both parties should document the correction to avoid future disputes.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Notarized Odometer Statement form can help avoid confusion during vehicle transactions. Here are some common misconceptions about this important document:

  • It's only necessary for used cars. Many people think this form is only needed when selling a used vehicle. In reality, it's required whenever there's a change in ownership, regardless of the vehicle's age.
  • Notarization is optional. Some believe that notarizing the odometer statement is just a formality. However, it is often a legal requirement to ensure the document is valid and binding.
  • Only the seller needs to sign it. While the seller must complete the form, the buyer may also need to sign it to acknowledge the mileage disclosure.
  • It can be filled out after the sale. Many assume they can complete the odometer statement after the sale is finalized. This is not advisable; it should be done at the time of the transaction.
  • Any notary can verify mileage. Some people think any notary can notarize the statement without verifying the mileage. In fact, the notary must personally witness the mileage to fulfill their duties.
  • The form is the same in every state. It's a common belief that the Notarized Odometer Statement form is standardized across the U.S. Each state may have different requirements, so it's essential to check local regulations.
  • It only protects the seller. Many think the form is only beneficial for the seller. In reality, it also protects the buyer by providing a legal record of the mileage at the time of sale.
  • Filling it out is straightforward. While the form may seem simple, errors can lead to legal issues. It's crucial to ensure all information is accurate and complete.
  • Once notarized, it cannot be changed. Some believe that once the form is notarized, it cannot be altered. If there are mistakes, it may be necessary to create a new document rather than trying to change the original.

By clearing up these misconceptions, individuals can navigate the process of vehicle ownership transfer more effectively and ensure compliance with legal requirements.