The essence of car registration is to title the car so that you can legally drive it on the road to avoid being delayed by law enforcement agencies.
This is because a car title is a legal document that establishes your ownership of the car. It is what proves that the car belongs to you and is not stolen. Therefore, if you add two names to the car title, it means that the ownership of the car belongs to you and the other person.
Having two names on a car title comes with several benefits but if two names are on a car title, can one person sell it?
Yes, if two names are on a car title, one person can sell it provided the names on the title are connected by “OR”, either of them can sell the car without the consent of the other owner. However, if the word connecting both names is “AND”, then both individuals must be present to sell and sign the car.
If Two Names Are on a Car Title Can One Person Sell It?
Yes, if two names are on a car title one person can sell it. However, it is important to note that whether one person can sell a car with two names on the title depends on how the names are listed on the title and the laws of their jurisdiction.
If the names on the car title are connected by “OR,” for example, Mathew Brown “or” Blessing Brown, it usually means that either of the owners can sell a car without the consent of the other.
This kind of joint ownership is often used when the co-owners have more flexible arrangements and don’t need both parties to be present for a sale.
Therefore, if what is connecting both owners on the title is “or”, then one of you can sell the car with or without the other’s consent.
However, if the names on the title are connected by “AND,” for example, Mathew Brown “and” Blessing Brown, it means that both individuals must be present to sell the vehicle, and both must sign off on the sale. This is usually used for joint ownership where both parties have equal rights to the vehicle.
In this case, one person can still sell the car but the presence of the other owner will be needed because he/she is needed to add his signatory to the sale.
This is to say that, if you and your ex-fiancé have both names on your car title before leaving you with the car, if you wish to sell the car, you can sell it but on the day of the sale, he must be present to sign the title because of the “AND” that was used in the title.
Therefore, in a situation where both names are on the title, but the title doesn’t specify “AND” or “OR,” it is advisable to have the consent of the co-owner before selling the vehicle to avoid any legal issues or disputes.
Sometimes, even if both names are on the title, there may be a legal agreement (such as a contract or court order) that specifies who has the right to sell the vehicle.
With these factors, it is left for you to check what’s on your car title. What are the names connected with? Is it “or” or “and”? This is the major factor that prevents one person from selling a car with two names on the title.
When to Sell a Car with Two Names Without Involving the Other Owner
Since the ability to sell a car with two names on the title without involving the other owner depends on how the names are listed on the title and the laws of your jurisdiction, you can consider selling the car without the other owner’s involvement if:
1. There is Joint Ownership with “OR”
If the names on the title are connected by “OR,” it means that either owner can sell the car without the consent of the other. In this case, you have the legal authority to sell the car independently without the other person’s consent
2. There are Legal Agreements For Selling the Car
You can sell a car with both names on the car title without the consent of the other owner if there is a legal agreement or contract between both of you that specifies the conditions under which the vehicle can be sold, especially if the written contract grants one owner the right to sell the car without the other owner’s consent.
3. Divorce or Separation
In the case of divorce or legal separation, the court may issue an order that allows one party to sell the vehicle without the consent of the other, especially if the ownership of the vehicle is part of the property division.
4. Abandonment or No Contact
If the other owner has abandoned the vehicle and is unreachable, or has no interest in the car, you may have the ability to sell it.
In such cases, documentation and attempts to contact the absent owner may be required to demonstrate due diligence.
These are the only times you have the right to sell a car with two names on the title without the consent of the other owner.
Before proceeding with the sale, it is highly recommended to consult with a legal professional who is knowledgeable about the laws in your jurisdiction and seek legal advice. They can guide you with the requirements and steps to follow to sell the car legally to avoid any legal issues or disputes.
Keep in mind that selling a jointly owned vehicle without the other owner’s involvement can be complex and may involve legal proceedings in some cases.
Process of Selling a Car with Two Names on the Title
Selling a car with two names on the title can be a bit more complex than selling a car with a single owner. The process may vary depending on the circumstances and the municipal laws, but here are general steps to follow:
- Have an Agreement with the Co-Owner: Before selling a car with two names on the title, it is important to have an agreement with the other owner regarding the sale of the vehicle. Both owners should be on the same page and consent to the sale.
- Review the Title: Check the title to see how the names are listed. If the names are connected by “AND,” it means that both individuals must be present to sell the vehicle or both must sign off on the sale. If the names are connected by “OR,” either party can sell the vehicle without the consent of the other.
- Contact the DMV or Relevant Authority: Reach out to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the relevant vehicle registration authority to understand the specific requirements and procedures for selling a jointly owned vehicle in your jurisdiction. They can provide you with the necessary forms and guidance.
- Complete the Sale Forms: If both co-owners agree to the sale, complete any required sale forms provided by the DMV. This may include a bill of sale, release of interest, and other documentation.
- Obtain Necessary Signatures: Ensure that all required signatures are obtained. If both owners need to sign, make arrangements to meet and sign the documents. If only one owner’s signature is required, follow the appropriate process.
- Transfer Ownership: If the DMV requires a transfer of ownership form, complete it accurately and submit it as required. The DMV may issue a new title in the name of the buyer.
- Pay Any Fees and Taxes: Be prepared to pay any required fees and taxes associated with the sale or transfer of ownership. The DMV can provide information on the applicable fees.
- Notify the Co-Owner: It’s a good practice to inform the co-owner once the sale is completed and the ownership has been transferred.
- Hand Over the Title and Remove the Vehicle from Insurance: Provide the new owner with the signed title, bill of sale, and any other relevant documentation. Contact your insurance provider to cancel or transfer the insurance coverage for the vehicle to the new owner.
Remember that the specific requirements and processes of selling a car with two names on the title can vary by jurisdiction hence why it is important to consult with the DMV or a legal professional to ensure you follow the correct procedures for your location.
If there are any disputes or complications, consider seeking legal advice to resolve the situation.
Conclusion
If two names are on a car title one person can sell the car without the consent of the other owner as long as what connecting their names on the car title is “OR”.
However, if their names are connected with “and” on the car title, then one person can still sell the car but with the presence of the other owner as his signature is required to complete the sale.
Meanwhile, you can still sell a car with two names on a car title if there is a written and signed legal agreement allowing any of the owners to sell the car without the consent of the other.
Also, during divorce or separation, if the ownership of the car is part of the property division, the court may issue an order that allows one person to sell the car without the consent of the other.
