Texas Odometer Statement Template

Texas Odometer Statement: Usage Instruction

After completing the Texas Odometer Statement, the next important step is to ensure that both the seller and buyer properly sign and date the form. This will help affirm the accuracy of the odometer reading at the time of the vehicle’s transfer. Below are the steps needed to fill out the form accurately.

1. Begin by filling in the Seller/Agent Name at the top of the form.
2. Next, under Vehicle Description, provide the year, make, body style, model, and the vehicle identification number (VIN).
3. In the section labeled Odometer Reading, write down the odometer reading in whole numbers, without tenths.
4. Sign your name in the appropriate space, certifying the accuracy of the odometer reading.
5. Print your name below the signature line to match your signature.
6. If applicable, include the firm’s name in the designated area, especially if the title is held in a firm’s name.
7. Provide your complete street address, including city, state, and zip code.
8. In the Acknowledgment of Odometer Disclosure by Buyer/Agent section, have the buyer or buyer’s agent sign and date the form.
9. Ask the buyer or their agent to print their name beneath their signature.
10. If the purchase is made by a firm, include the firm’s name in the specified area.
11. Finally, ensure that the buyer provides their street address, city, state, and zip code in the designated lines.

1. What is the purpose of the Texas Odometer Statement form?

   The Texas Odometer Statement form serves as a legal declaration of the mileage on a vehicle at the time of ownership transfer. It is required by both federal and state law to ensure transparency and prevent odometer fraud. By stating the mileage, both the seller and buyer acknowledge the reading on the vehicle's odometer, helping to protect consumers from misleading mileage claims.

2. Who needs to fill out this form?

   Typically, this form must be completed by the seller or the seller's agent when transferring vehicle ownership. It is essential for any individual or business involved in the sale or transfer of a vehicle that is not accompanied by a title that fulfills the federal odometer disclosure requirements. Even if the vehicle is old or has a high mileage, the statement is still necessary.

3. What happens if the form is not filled out correctly?

   If the Texas Odometer Statement is incomplete or if false information is provided, serious consequences may follow. Failing to properly complete the form can result in legal penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment. It is crucial to ensure that the information presented is accurate to avoid these repercussions.

4. What should be included in the vehicle description?

   The vehicle description on the form must include the year, make, body style, model, and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This detailed information helps to uniquely identify the vehicle in question and ensures that the buyer and seller understand which automobile is being transferred.

5. Is there any penalty for providing false information?

   Yes, providing false information on the Texas Odometer Statement can lead to significant consequences. Specifically, falsifying information is classified as a third-degree felony under Texas Transportation Code, §501.155. Individuals found guilty of this offense may face criminal charges, fines, and other legal ramifications. It is vital to be truthful and accurate when completing all sections of the form.

Filling out the Texas Odometer Statement form can seem straightforward, yet many people make common mistakes that can jeopardize the accuracy of the information. One frequent error is neglecting to provide the correct vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is essential for identifying the vehicle, and missing or incorrect information can create complications during the title transfer process.

Another mistake involves the odometer reading itself. Individuals often write down the wrong number or fail to record the reading accurately. It's important to ensure that the odometer reading stated does not include tenths. This mistake can lead to disputes regarding the mileage and may require additional clarification down the road.

Some people forget to sign the form or fail to print their names as required. The signature must match the printed name for the document to be valid. Both the seller and the buyer should make sure to complete this section correctly to avoid delays in the transfer process.

Inadequate acknowledgment of the odometer disclosure by the buyer is prevalent as well. Buyers should not overlook this step. It’s important that the buyer confirms awareness of the odometer certification made by the seller. Skipping this acknowledgment can lead to confusion and potential legal issues later.

Lastly, individuals often overlook the warnings included on the form. Not understanding the implications of falsifying information can lead to serious repercussions, including fines or legal consequences. Carefully reading the warnings helps ensure that the information provided is accurate and truthful.

The Texas Odometer Statement form (VTR-40) serves a critical function in vehicle transactions, ensuring that both buyers and sellers are aware of the odometer reading to prevent fraud. However, several other documents often accompany the Texas Odometer Statement to ensure a smooth and legally compliant transfer of ownership. Below are some related forms and documents commonly used in conjunction with this statement.

• Texas Certificate of Title: This document serves as the official proof of vehicle ownership in Texas. It includes essential information about the vehicle, such as its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, and the names of previous and current owners. The Certificate of Title must be transferred to the new owner when a vehicle is sold.
• Bill of Sale: The Bill of Sale documents the transaction between the buyer and seller. It includes the terms of the sale, the purchase price, and pertinent vehicle details. This record can be beneficial for both parties to have in case disputes arise regarding the sale.
• Application for Texas Title (Form 130-U): This form is required to apply for a title transfer in Texas. It collects information about the vehicle and the buyer and seller. Filling out this application thoroughly helps ensure compliance with Texas registration laws.
• VIN Verification Form: For certain transactions, especially when the vehicle has been recently purchased or moved from another state, a VIN Verification Form may be required. This form confirms that the vehicle's identification number matches the details provided in other documentation.

Ensuring that all necessary forms are completed and submitted correctly can help facilitate a successful vehicle ownership transfer. Neglecting any of these documents may lead to legal complications or delays in the registration process.

The Texas Odometer Statement form is a crucial document in the vehicle ownership transfer process, ensuring that accurate mileage is reported. This form shares similarities with several other documents used in various transactions and disclosures regarding vehicles. Below is a list of six such documents and their connections to the Texas Odometer Statement.

• Vehicle Title: Similar to the Texas Odometer Statement, a vehicle title includes crucial information about the vehicle's ownership and must indicate any odometer readings at the time of sale. Both documents require the seller’s declaration of the vehicle's mileage.
• Bill of Sale: Just like the Texas Odometer Statement, a bill of sale serves as legal proof of the transaction between a buyer and a seller. It typically includes the odometer reading, ensuring clear communication about the vehicle’s condition at the time of the sale.
• Odometer Disclosure Statement: This document specifically addresses odometer readings, similar to the Texas Odometer Statement. It is federally mandated for vehicle sales and conveys the same legal requirements for accuracy in mileage disclosure.
• Powers of Attorney (POA) for Vehicle Transactions: A POA can authorize another person to complete vehicle sales and title transfers on behalf of the owner. This can include signing the Texas Odometer Statement, ensuring the necessary disclosures are made.
• Vehicle Registration Application: When registering a vehicle, applicants must provide an odometer reading. This application serves a similar purpose to the Texas Odometer Statement, as it ensures that the reported mileage is verified during the registration process.
• Repair Records: While primarily used for maintenance history, repair records may also document odometer readings at various service points. This can be compared to the Texas Odometer Statement because both deal with actual mileage and help establish the vehicle's condition and history.

Below is a list of things to do and avoid when filling out the Texas Odometer Statement form:

• Do provide accurate information regarding the odometer reading.
• Do include all required details such as the vehicle's description, including year, make, model, and VIN.
• Do sign and date the form to ensure it is valid.
• Do check the appropriate boxes if the mileage is not the actual mileage.
• Do print names clearly in the designated areas for both the seller and buyer.

• Don't provide false statements about the odometer reading.
• Don't forget to use the most current version of the form.
• Don't leave any sections blank; complete every part of the form.
• Don't use this form in conjunction with title transfer documents.
• Don't ignore the legal implications of falsifying information on the form.

Many people have misunderstandings about the Texas Odometer Statement form. Here are six common misconceptions clarified for better understanding:

• It's only necessary for private sales. Some believe the form is only needed when selling a vehicle privately. In fact, it is required for all transfers of vehicle ownership, including dealer sales.
• Anyone can fill out the form. There is a misconception that anyone can complete the odometer statement without any knowledge of the vehicle's history. However, only the seller or their agent may accurately certify the vehicle's mileage based on what they know.
• Providing false information only leads to fines. While it’s true that providing incorrect mileage can result in penalties, it can also lead to more severe consequences, including potential imprisonment. Falsifying information is considered a serious offense.
• This form is the same as a title transfer document. Many people confuse the Odometer Statement with title transfer documents. They're distinct; the Odometer Statement is a separate requirement that specifically addresses mileage disclosure.
• Odometer readings can be easily estimated. Some assume they can estimate the mileage if they are unsure. This is not advisable. Only actual mileage should be reported, and it's best to check the vehicle's odometer for accuracy.
• Only one signature is enough. There is a belief that only the seller's signature is required on this form. Both the seller and the buyer (or their agents) must acknowledge the odometer disclosure by signing the form.

Understanding these details helps ensure compliance with the law and protects both buyers and sellers during vehicle transactions.

Here are key takeaways about filling out and using the Texas Odometer Statement form:

• Always complete the form during the transfer of vehicle ownership.
• The form is known as VTR-40 and must be filled with accurate information.
• The odometer reading should reflect the actual mileage of the vehicle.
• Check one of the boxes if the odometer reading does not reflect actual mileage.
• Be aware that providing false information can lead to fines or imprisonment.
• This statement cannot be used with vehicle title transfer documents.
• Familiarize yourself with the definition of "mechanical limits" in relation to mileage.
• Both the seller and buyer must sign and date the form for it to be valid.
• If the vehicle is owned by a business, include the firm's name as appropriate.
• Understand that falsifying information is a third-degree felony under Texas law.