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To legally transfer ownership, the seller must sign the back of the Arizona Certificate of Title. A critical requirement in Arizona is that this signature must be notarized to be valid. Since White Mountain Lake is a smaller community, you will likely need to drive to Show Low or Snowflake/Taylor to find a notary at a bank, shipping store, or authorized third-party MVD provider. Once signed and notarized, take the title to the MVD office in Show Low to complete the transfer.
No. The person whose name is on the title as the owner must be the one to sign it in front of the notary and present their photo ID. The notary’s job is to verify the identity of the signer directly.
If the seller cannot find the title, they must apply for a duplicate title from the Arizona MVD before they can legally sell the vehicle to you. Do not exchange money for a car without receiving a properly signed and notarized title.
The license plate stays with the seller. In Arizona, plates are registered to the individual, not the vehicle. The seller must remove their plate before you take possession of the car.
1. Driving Legally: To drive the vehicle home or to an MVD office, you must get a "Restricted Use 3-Day Permit." This temporary permit can be purchased and printed online through the AZ MVD Now website, which is the most convenient option for rural residents.
When meeting a stranger for a private sale, always prioritize safety. It is best to meet in a public, visible area during daylight hours. Good options include the parking lots of the local fire station, community center, or busy businesses in nearby Show Low. Avoid meeting in secluded residential areas or on remote dirt roads. Bringing a friend or family member with you is always a smart precaution.
Before you finalize the purchase, take these critical steps:
1. Check the VIN: Make sure the VIN on the car's dashboard or door jamb matches the VIN on the title document exactly.
2. Lien Check: Use the free lien check service on the AZ MVD Now website. This will confirm if a bank or lender still has a financial claim on the car. If a lien exists, the seller must provide you with a lien release document.
3. Vehicle History Report: Consider getting a report from KarKiosk. This can uncover important information about past accidents, flood damage, or title issues like a salvage brand.