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The Texas Odometer Statement form, officially designated as VTR-40, plays a crucial role in the transfer of vehicle ownership within the state. This form is essential for documenting the mileage of a vehicle at the time of sale, as mandated by both federal and state law. Accurate mileage reporting is vital, as any inaccuracies or false statements can lead to significant penalties, including fines or imprisonment. The form requires specific details, such as the vehicle's year, make, model, body style, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Sellers or their agents must certify that the reported odometer reading reflects the actual mileage, unless they indicate otherwise by checking specific statements regarding mechanical limits or discrepancies. Additionally, the form includes sections for both the seller and buyer to acknowledge the odometer disclosure, ensuring that both parties are aware of the information provided. It is important to note that this form cannot be used alongside title transfer documents that already meet odometer disclosure requirements, particularly for titles issued on or after April 29, 1990. The consequences of falsifying information on the Texas Odometer Statement are serious, as outlined in the Transportation Code, which classifies such actions as a third-degree felony.

Similar forms

  • Bill of Sale: This document records the transaction between a seller and buyer, including vehicle details and the sale price. It often includes a statement about the odometer reading, similar to the Texas Odometer Statement.
  • Vehicle Title: The title serves as proof of ownership and includes the vehicle's odometer reading at the time of transfer. Like the Odometer Statement, it ensures accurate mileage disclosure.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement (Federal Form): This federal form is used to disclose the odometer reading during the sale of a vehicle, similar to the Texas version. Both forms require certification of the mileage.
  • Title Application: When applying for a new title, this document may require odometer information. It serves a similar purpose in confirming the vehicle's mileage during ownership transfer.
  • Transfer of Ownership Form: This form facilitates the transfer of vehicle ownership and often includes an odometer disclosure section, paralleling the Texas Odometer Statement.
  • Vehicle Registration Application: This application may require the submission of the vehicle's odometer reading to ensure accurate records, similar to the requirements of the Odometer Statement.
  • Power of Attorney for Vehicle Transactions: This document may authorize someone to act on behalf of the owner in vehicle transactions, including odometer disclosures, echoing the certification process in the Texas Odometer Statement.
  • Affidavit of Odometer Reading: This affidavit is a sworn statement regarding the vehicle's mileage, much like the Texas Odometer Statement, which also requires certification of the reading.
  • NYC Water Billing Form: This form is crucial for property owners in New York City, allowing them to register for water and sewer billing or update their mailing address, ensuring proper communication with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). For more information, visit NY PDF Forms.
  • Motor Vehicle Sales Agreement: This agreement outlines the terms of sale and may include a section for odometer disclosure, similar to the Texas Odometer Statement.
  • Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin: This document is issued by the manufacturer and includes the odometer reading at the time of first sale, serving a similar purpose to the Texas Odometer Statement.

Form Properties

Fact Name Fact Description
Form Title The form is titled "Odometer Disclosure Statement" and is designated as VTR-40.
Governing Laws This form is governed by federal and state laws regarding odometer disclosures.
Purpose The purpose of the form is to disclose the vehicle's mileage during the transfer of ownership.
Legal Consequences Providing false information or failing to complete the form may result in fines or imprisonment.
Usage Restrictions This form cannot be used with title transfer documents that comply with odometer disclosure requirements.
Vehicle Information The form requires details about the vehicle, including year, make, model, and VIN.
Odometer Reading The seller must provide the odometer reading, which should not include tenths of a mile.
Discrepancy Warning There is a warning about odometer discrepancies, indicating the potential for legal issues.
Felony Warning According to Texas Transportation Code, §501.155, falsifying information is a third-degree felony.

How to Use Texas Odometer Statement

After obtaining the Texas Odometer Statement form, it is essential to fill it out accurately to ensure compliance with state and federal laws regarding odometer disclosures. This form is required when transferring ownership of a vehicle and must be completed correctly to avoid potential legal issues.

  1. Begin by entering the seller or agent's name at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the vehicle description section, including the following details:
    • Year
    • Make
    • Body Style
    • Model
    • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  3. Provide the current odometer reading in the designated space, ensuring that it does not include tenths of a mile.
  4. Certify the odometer reading by signing your name in the "Signature of Seller/Agent" section.
  5. Print your name below your signature, ensuring it matches the name you signed.
  6. If the vehicle is titled in a firm’s name, print the firm’s name on the line provided.
  7. Complete your street address, city, state, and zip code in the appropriate fields.
  8. Check one of the statements regarding the odometer reading:
    • The mileage stated is in excess of its mechanical limits.
    • The odometer reading is not the actual mileage.
  9. Proceed to the acknowledgment section for the buyer or agent. The buyer or agent must sign and date the form.
  10. Have the buyer or agent print their name below their signature, ensuring it matches the name they signed.
  11. If the purchase was made by a firm, print the firm’s name on the line provided in this section.
  12. Finally, complete the buyer or agent's street address, city, state, and zip code.

Key takeaways

When filling out the Texas Odometer Statement form, it is essential to understand the implications and requirements. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Mandatory Disclosure: Federal and state laws require the disclosure of the vehicle's mileage during the transfer of ownership.
  • Consequences of Inaccuracy: Providing false information on the form can lead to significant penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment.
  • Not for Title Transfers: This form cannot be used alongside title transfer documents that already meet federal and state odometer disclosure requirements.
  • Odometer Reading: Ensure the odometer reading is stated accurately, without tenths, to avoid discrepancies.
  • Certification Requirement: The seller or agent must certify that the odometer reading reflects the actual mileage, unless specific exceptions apply.
  • Buyer Acknowledgment: The buyer or agent must acknowledge the odometer disclosure, confirming their awareness of the seller's certification.
  • Firm Names: If the vehicle is purchased under a firm's name, it is necessary to print the firm’s name in the designated areas on the form.

Completing the Texas Odometer Statement accurately is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Take the time to ensure all information is correct to avoid potential legal issues.

Documents used along the form

The Texas Odometer Statement form is an essential document in the process of transferring vehicle ownership. However, several other forms and documents are often used alongside it to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. Below is a list of these documents, each serving a specific purpose in the transaction.

  • Texas Certificate of Title: This is the official document that proves ownership of a vehicle. It includes vital information such as the vehicle's make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The title must be transferred to the new owner during the sale.
  • Bill of Sale: This document serves as a receipt for the transaction. It outlines the details of the sale, including the purchase price, date of sale, and information about both the buyer and seller. It is often required for registration purposes.
  • Application for Texas Title: This form is used to apply for a new title after purchasing a vehicle. It includes information about the buyer, seller, and the vehicle itself. It must be submitted to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to finalize the title transfer.
  • Arizona Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale: This form is crucial when transferring ownership of a vehicle in Arizona. It documents the sale details and protects both buyer and seller in the transaction. For a template, click here.
  • Vehicle Registration Application: This document is necessary to register the vehicle in the new owner's name. It includes similar information as the title application and may be submitted simultaneously with it to the DMV.
  • Affidavit of Heirship: In cases where a vehicle is inherited, this document may be required. It serves as a sworn statement confirming the transfer of ownership from a deceased individual to their heirs.
  • Power of Attorney: If the seller cannot be present to complete the sale, a power of attorney may be used. This document grants another individual the authority to act on the seller's behalf during the transaction.
  • Emissions Inspection Report: Depending on the county, an emissions inspection may be required before a vehicle can be registered. This report verifies that the vehicle meets state emissions standards.

Understanding these documents will help facilitate a smoother transaction when transferring vehicle ownership in Texas. It is crucial to ensure that all necessary forms are completed accurately to avoid potential legal issues in the future.

Discover More on This Form

What is the Texas Odometer Statement form?

The Texas Odometer Statement form, also known as VTR-40, is a document required when transferring ownership of a vehicle in Texas. It ensures that the seller discloses the vehicle's mileage accurately. This form is crucial for both buyers and sellers to prevent any legal issues related to odometer fraud.

Who needs to fill out the Odometer Statement?

The seller or their agent must complete the Odometer Statement when selling a vehicle. This includes private sellers and dealerships. The buyer or their agent also needs to acknowledge the odometer disclosure by signing the form.

What information is required on the form?

The form requires several key pieces of information:

  1. The year, make, body style, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle.
  2. The current odometer reading (without tenths).
  3. Certification from the seller regarding the accuracy of the mileage.
  4. Signatures from both the seller and the buyer or their agents.

What happens if the mileage is incorrect?

If the mileage stated on the form is incorrect, it could lead to serious consequences. Falsifying information on the Odometer Statement is a third-degree felony in Texas. This means that both fines and imprisonment are possible outcomes for providing false information.

Can this form be used with title transfer documents?

No, the Texas Odometer Statement cannot be used in conjunction with title transfer documents that meet federal and state odometer disclosure requirements. Specifically, it is not valid for Texas Certificate of Titles issued on or after April 29, 1990.

What if the odometer reading exceeds its mechanical limits?

If the vehicle's mileage exceeds its mechanical limits, the seller must check the appropriate box on the form. This indicates that the actual mileage cannot be determined. It’s important to disclose this to avoid any misunderstandings or legal issues later on.

How can I obtain the Texas Odometer Statement form?

The Texas Odometer Statement form (VTR-40) can be obtained online through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website. It’s also available at local county tax offices. Make sure to use the most recent version of the form to ensure compliance with state laws.