Common Title Transfer Mistakes to Avoid for Alaska

Transferring a vehicle title in Alaska is a critical legal process, whether you’re buying, selling, inheriting, or gifting a car. But even small errors in documentation, timing, or procedures can lead to delays, penalties, or outright rejections by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). To ensure a smooth transaction, it’s important to understand the most frequent title transfer mistakes and how to avoid them.

Missing or Incorrect Signatures

One of the most common—and easily preventable—errors in a title transfer is failing to obtain all required signatures. In Alaska, both the buyer and the seller must sign the title. If there is more than one owner listed on the title, all owners must sign off unless power of attorney is granted.

Incomplete signatures or signing in the wrong place can invalidate the transfer, requiring a title correction. You can learn more about fixing such issues in How to Correct an Error on an Alaska Vehicle Title.

Forgetting to Include a Bill of Sale

Although not always legally required, a bill of sale is often necessary to establish proof of transaction, especially when the DMV requests supporting documents. It includes key information such as the sale date, vehicle details, price, and both parties’ contact information.

Not having a bill of sale can complicate disputes, hinder registration, or stall the title process, particularly when selling a car privately. For more guidance, refer to Selling a Car Privately in Alaska.

Not Disclosing Liens

If a lien exists on the vehicle, it must be released by the lender before the title can be transferred. Attempting to transfer a title with an unresolved lien is a common reason the DMV rejects applications. Make sure to obtain a lien release document and submit it with your title transfer paperwork.

Failure to do so could flag the transaction as incomplete or fraudulent.

Incomplete Odometer Disclosure

Federal and state laws require odometer disclosure for vehicles under 10 years old. Some sellers forget to record this information on the title or use incorrect formats, which can delay the process. Always double-check that the mileage is entered accurately and in the designated section of the title.

Using White-Out or Altering the Title

Any visible alterations to the title—such as scratched-out names, white-out usage, or overwriting—can void the document entirely. If a mistake is made while filling out the title, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Instead, apply for a corrected title through the DMV to maintain validity.

Missing the Title Transfer Deadline

In Alaska, the buyer has 30 days from the date of sale to complete the title transfer. Exceeding this deadline can result in late fees or additional scrutiny during registration. Sellers should also submit a Notice of Transfer to the DMV to protect themselves from liability if the vehicle is used improperly after the sale.

Incomplete or Incorrect Paperwork

Each type of title transfer—whether for a standard sale, gift, inheritance, or salvage vehicle—has specific paperwork requirements. Submitting an application with missing forms or documents is a frequent issue.

Make sure to review the checklist provided in What Paperwork is Needed for an Alaska Title Transfer? to ensure compliance.

Assuming the Dealer Handles Everything

While licensed dealers usually facilitate title transfers, it’s unwise to assume the process is complete without confirmation. Buyers should always follow up with the DMV to verify that the title has been properly transferred into their name. Mistakes at this stage can still affect ownership and registration.

Providing Incorrect Vehicle Information

Typos in the VIN, make, model, or year of the vehicle can delay processing or trigger rejection. Double-check all entries for accuracy, especially when hand-filling documents.

Skipping Temporary Operating Permits

If the title process is pending and you need to drive the vehicle legally, apply for a temporary operating permit. Skipping this step can result in fines for driving without proper registration. Learn how to stay road-legal during this transition at Temporary Operating Permits While Awaiting Title.

Titles Not Signed Over During a Gift

When gifting a vehicle, the transfer process still requires proper documentation, including title endorsement and a gift declaration. Overlooking this step can complicate ownership claims or make the gift recipient liable for unexpected taxes or fees.

More guidance is available in Gifting a Vehicle in Alaska - Title Transfer Rules.

Mistakes During Inheritance Transfers

Inheriting a vehicle in Alaska involves court documentation or affidavits depending on the estate size and situation. Missing or incorrect probate paperwork is a common stumbling block. Those navigating this process can refer to Transferring a Vehicle Title After the Owner’s Death for the correct steps.

Avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure a quick and hassle-free title transfer in Alaska. Whether you're buying from a dealer, receiving a gifted vehicle, or managing an estate, taking time to review the process thoroughly is worth the effort. When in doubt, always consult the Alaska Vehicle Title Transfer Process for complete instructions.