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The Notarized Odometer Statement form serves a crucial role in the process of buying or selling a vehicle, providing a reliable record of the vehicle's mileage at the time of transfer. This form is particularly significant in preventing odometer fraud, a practice where sellers may alter the mileage to misrepresent the vehicle's condition. By completing this statement, the seller affirms the accuracy of the odometer reading, ensuring that potential buyers are fully informed. The document requires essential details, including the vehicle's year, make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), alongside the registered owner's name and signature. The presence of a notary public is vital; they verify the identity of the owner and confirm that the mileage has been accurately represented. This not only adds a layer of authenticity but also protects both parties involved in the transaction. By documenting the odometer reading in this formal manner, the Notarized Odometer Statement helps to uphold transparency and trust in vehicle sales, making it an indispensable tool for both buyers and sellers.

Misconceptions

When dealing with the Notarized Odometer Statement form, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are nine common misunderstandings:

  1. Notarization is optional. Many believe that notarizing the odometer statement is not necessary. In fact, it is often required to ensure the authenticity of the document.
  2. Only the seller needs to sign. Some think that only the seller's signature is needed. However, both the buyer and seller may need to sign depending on state regulations.
  3. The form is only for used vehicles. It is a common belief that this form applies only to used cars. In reality, it can also be used for certain new vehicles that require mileage disclosure.
  4. Notaries can verify any information. Some assume that notaries can confirm any details on the form. Notaries are limited to verifying identities and witnessing signatures, not the accuracy of the mileage itself.
  5. All states have the same requirements. Many people think that the notarization process is uniform across the country. In truth, each state has its own rules regarding odometer disclosures.
  6. Once notarized, the document cannot be changed. There is a misconception that a notarized document is set in stone. If errors are found, a new statement should be created rather than altering the original.
  7. Odometer statements are only for private sales. Some believe these statements are only necessary for private transactions. They can also be required in dealership sales or transfers.
  8. Notarization guarantees the accuracy of the mileage. It is a common misunderstanding that notarization confirms the mileage is correct. The notary only verifies the identity of the signer, not the truthfulness of the information provided.
  9. There is no deadline for submission. Many think they can submit the notarized statement at any time. However, there are often time limits for filing these documents, which vary by state.

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure a smoother transaction when dealing with vehicle sales and odometer disclosures. It is crucial to be informed and take the necessary steps to comply with legal requirements.

Notarized Odometer Statement: Usage Instruction

Once you have the Notarized Odometer Statement form ready, it’s time to fill it out carefully. This form requires specific information about the vehicle and the owner, so ensure you have all the necessary details on hand. Follow these steps to complete the form accurately.

  1. Begin by writing your name in the first blank space where it says "I, ____________________________".
  2. Next, fill in the state where you are a Notary Public in the space labeled "state of ______________________".
  3. In the next blank, indicate the county where you are located: "county of _________________".
  4. Now, write the mileage of the vehicle in the space provided: "mileage of _______________ (miles)".
  5. Fill in the year of the vehicle in the "this__________ (year)" section.
  6. Complete the make of the vehicle in the "________________ (make)" field.
  7. Then, provide the model of the vehicle in the "_________________ (model)" section.
  8. Write the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the space labeled "_____________________________ (VIN)".
  9. Next, write the name of the vehicle's owner in the "belonging to ____________________________" section.
  10. Indicate the date on which you are completing the form in the "this _______ day of _____________, 2015" section.
  11. Have the owner sign their name in the space labeled "_____________________________, owner, personally appeared..".
  12. Finally, sign your name as the Notary Public and fill in the date in the "Date" field.
  13. Complete the section for your commission expiration date: "My commission expires on ____________________".

After you have filled out the form, it’s important to review it for any errors. Once confirmed, the owner can take it to the appropriate parties for processing. Make sure to keep a copy for your records, if necessary.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Failing to fill in all required fields can lead to delays. Ensure that every blank is filled out completely.

  2. Incorrect Mileage: Entering the wrong mileage can cause legal issues. Double-check the odometer reading before submitting.

  3. Wrong Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): An incorrect VIN can invalidate the document. Verify the VIN against the vehicle's title or registration.

  4. Missing Notary Signature: The form must be signed by a notary public. Without this signature, the document is not legally binding.

  5. Incorrect Notary Information: Providing wrong details about the notary, such as the name or commission expiration date, can lead to complications.

  6. Failure to Date the Document: Not dating the statement can create confusion about when the disclosure was made. Always include the date.

  7. Not Using the Correct Form: Using an outdated or incorrect version of the form can lead to rejection. Ensure you have the latest version.

  8. Not Providing Owner Information: Omitting the owner's name can render the form useless. Include the full name of the vehicle owner.

  9. Forgetting to Print Clearly: Illegible handwriting can cause misunderstandings. Write clearly and legibly to avoid errors.

File Specifics

Fact Name Details
Purpose The Notarized Odometer Statement is used to verify the mileage of a vehicle during a sale or transfer.
Notary Requirement A Notary Public must witness and verify the statement, ensuring its authenticity.
State Specificity Different states may have specific requirements for the form, including additional disclosures.
Governing Law In many states, the odometer disclosure is governed by state motor vehicle laws and federal regulations.
Owner's Verification The vehicle owner must personally appear before the Notary and provide satisfactory evidence of identity.
Mandatory Information The form requires the vehicle's make, model, year, VIN, and current mileage.
Date of Statement The date on which the statement is signed is crucial for record-keeping and legal purposes.
Legal Consequences Providing false information on the form can lead to legal penalties, including fines or criminal charges.
Record Keeping Both the buyer and seller should keep a copy of the notarized statement for their records.
Expiration of Notary Commission The Notary Public must indicate when their commission expires, which adds to the form's validity.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Notarized Odometer Statement form, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here’s a helpful list of what you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do provide accurate and complete information in all fields.
  • Do ensure the mileage is verified before signing the document.
  • Do have the document notarized by a certified notary public.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Don't leave any fields blank; incomplete forms can lead to issues.
  • Don't falsify the mileage; this can have legal consequences.
  • Don't forget to date the document appropriately.
  • Don't rush through the process; take your time to ensure everything is correct.

Similar forms

The Bill of Sale is a crucial document in vehicle transactions. It serves as proof of the sale and includes details about the vehicle, such as the make, model, and VIN. Like the Notarized Odometer Statement, it requires signatures from both the seller and the buyer. This document protects both parties by providing a clear record of the transaction, ensuring that ownership is properly transferred.

The Vehicle Title is another important document that indicates legal ownership of a vehicle. When a car is sold, the title must be transferred from the seller to the buyer. This process often involves completing a section of the title and may require notarization, similar to the Odometer Statement. Both documents confirm the identity of the parties involved and the specifics of the vehicle.

The Title Application is used when registering a vehicle for the first time or transferring ownership. It collects essential information about the vehicle and its owner. Just like the Notarized Odometer Statement, it may require verification of the odometer reading. This document ensures that all necessary information is provided to the state for proper registration.

The Release of Liability form protects the seller from any future claims related to the vehicle after the sale. It confirms that the seller is no longer responsible for the vehicle once ownership is transferred. This form, like the Notarized Odometer Statement, is often signed by both parties to validate the transaction and ensure clarity regarding ownership.

The Application for Duplicate Title is used when the original title is lost or damaged. This document requires details about the vehicle and may also necessitate an odometer disclosure. Similar to the Notarized Odometer Statement, it serves to verify the vehicle's identity and ownership, ensuring that the correct information is recorded with the state.

The California Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney form is an essential tool for car owners, allowing them to delegate responsibilities such as vehicle registration and document signing to a trusted individual. It ensures that tasks related to vehicle ownership can still be managed effectively in the owner's absence or incapacitation. For those in California seeking additional resources, All California Forms can provide further assistance in navigating vehicle-related legal processes.

The Vehicle Registration is a document issued by the state that allows a vehicle to be legally driven on public roads. It includes details about the vehicle and its owner. Like the Notarized Odometer Statement, the registration process often involves confirming the odometer reading to ensure accurate records are maintained by the state.

The Emissions Certificate is required in some states to ensure that a vehicle meets environmental standards. This document verifies that the vehicle has passed emissions tests. While it focuses on environmental compliance, it shares similarities with the Notarized Odometer Statement in that both documents require verification and confirmation of vehicle details before a transaction can proceed.

The Power of Attorney for Vehicle Transactions allows one person to act on behalf of another in matters related to vehicle ownership. This document may be used when someone cannot be present for the sale or transfer. Like the Notarized Odometer Statement, it requires signatures and may need notarization to confirm the identities of the parties involved, ensuring the transaction is legitimate.