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Content Overview

The Texas Odometer Statement form, officially known as VTR-40, plays a crucial role in the transfer of vehicle ownership within the state. It serves as a formal declaration of the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale, ensuring compliance with both federal and state laws. Sellers or their agents are required to accurately report the odometer reading, as any inaccuracies or omissions can lead to significant penalties, including fines or even imprisonment. The form is not intended for use alongside title transfer documents that already fulfill odometer disclosure requirements, such as the Texas Certificate of Title issued after April 29, 1990. Key components of the form include a detailed vehicle description, which encompasses the year, make, body style, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The seller must affirm that the reported odometer reading reflects the actual mileage unless specific exceptions are checked, such as exceeding mechanical limits or indicating that the reading is not accurate. Additionally, the buyer or their agent must acknowledge the odometer certification, reinforcing the importance of transparency in the transaction. It is essential to note that any falsification of information on this form is treated seriously under Texas law, classified as a third-degree felony, underscoring the necessity for honesty in vehicle sales.

Similar forms

The Texas Odometer Statement form shares similarities with several other documents that also deal with vehicle ownership and mileage disclosure. Here are seven documents that are similar:

  • Vehicle Title Application: This document is used to apply for a new vehicle title and includes information about the vehicle's mileage. Like the Odometer Statement, it requires accurate mileage reporting to prevent fraud.
  • Bill of Sale: A Bill of Sale records the sale of a vehicle and often includes the odometer reading at the time of sale. Both documents serve to protect buyers by ensuring they are informed about the vehicle's mileage.
  • Vehicle Registration Application: When registering a vehicle, this application may ask for the current odometer reading. This is similar to the Odometer Statement, as both require disclosure of mileage to comply with state laws.
  • Transfer of Title Document: This document facilitates the transfer of ownership from one party to another and includes a section for odometer disclosure. Both forms aim to ensure transparency in the vehicle's mileage history.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement (Federal): This federal form is required for vehicle sales and also mandates accurate mileage reporting. It parallels the Texas Odometer Statement in purpose and legal requirements.
  • Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO): This document is issued for new vehicles and includes the initial odometer reading. Like the Odometer Statement, it serves to document the vehicle's mileage from the start.
  • Hold Harmless Agreement: In Connecticut, executing a Hold Harmless Agreement is vital for protecting parties by ensuring that one does not hold the other legally accountable for risks or liabilities that may arise during service provisions or property usage.
  • Vehicle History Report: While not a formal legal document, this report provides information about a vehicle's past, including mileage records. It complements the Odometer Statement by offering additional context about the vehicle's history.

Document Specifics

Fact Name Description
Form Title The official title of the form is "Odometer Disclosure Statement VTR-40".
Governing Laws This form is governed by both federal and Texas state laws regarding odometer disclosures.
Purpose The form serves to disclose the mileage of a vehicle during the transfer of ownership.
Legal Consequences Failure to complete the form accurately may lead to fines or imprisonment.
Limitations The form cannot be used with title transfer documents issued on or after April 29, 1990.
Odometer Reading The form requires the seller to certify the accuracy of the odometer reading.
Discrepancy Warning There is a specific warning about potential odometer discrepancies included on the form.
Felony Charge Falsifying information on this form is classified as a third-degree felony under Texas Transportation Code, §501.155.

Things You Should Know About This Form

  1. What is the Texas Odometer Statement form?

    The Texas Odometer Statement form, also known as VTR-40, is a document required by federal and state law during the transfer of vehicle ownership. It is used to disclose the mileage on a vehicle's odometer to ensure that the information is accurate and to prevent fraud. This form must be completed by the seller or their agent and is essential for protecting both parties in the transaction.

  2. Who needs to complete the Texas Odometer Statement form?

    The seller of the vehicle or their authorized agent is responsible for completing the Texas Odometer Statement form. This includes private sellers, dealerships, and any entity that is transferring ownership of a vehicle. It is crucial for the seller to provide accurate information regarding the odometer reading to comply with legal requirements.

  3. What information is required on the form?

    The Texas Odometer Statement form requires several key pieces of information, including:

    • The year, make, body style, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle.
    • The current odometer reading, stated in whole miles (no tenths).
    • Certification by the seller that the odometer reading is accurate, along with options to indicate if the mileage is in excess of mechanical limits or if it is not the actual mileage.
    • The signatures of both the seller and the buyer or their agents, along with their printed names and addresses.
  4. What happens if the form is not completed correctly?

    Failure to complete the Texas Odometer Statement form accurately can lead to serious consequences. Providing false information may result in fines or even imprisonment, as it is considered a third-degree felony under Texas law. It is essential for both the seller and buyer to review the information carefully to ensure its accuracy.

  5. Is the Texas Odometer Statement form required for all vehicle transfers?

    Not all vehicle transfers require the Texas Odometer Statement form. It is specifically required when the vehicle's title does not comply with federal and state odometer disclosure requirements, such as titles issued on or after April 29, 1990. If the title already contains the necessary odometer disclosure, the form may not be needed.

  6. Where can I obtain the Texas Odometer Statement form?

    The Texas Odometer Statement form (VTR-40) can be obtained from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) website or at local county tax offices. It is also available at some dealerships and automotive businesses that handle vehicle sales. Ensure you have the most current version of the form to meet legal requirements.

Documents used along the form

The Texas Odometer Statement form is a crucial document in the vehicle transfer process, ensuring accurate mileage disclosure. In addition to this form, several other documents are often used to facilitate the transfer of vehicle ownership. Below is a list of these documents, each serving a specific purpose in the transaction.

  • Texas Certificate of Title: This document serves as the official proof of vehicle ownership. It includes details such as the vehicle's make, model, and identification number, as well as the names of the current and previous owners. The title must be transferred to the new owner upon sale.
  • Affidavit of Support: When dealing with immigration processes, it is important to understand the requirement of the USCIS I-864 form, especially for family-sponsored green card applications. This form is crucial for ensuring that the immigrant will have adequate financial support and not rely on government assistance. For more information, visit legalpdfdocs.com.
  • Bill of Sale: A bill of sale is a written agreement between the buyer and seller that outlines the terms of the vehicle sale. It typically includes the purchase price, vehicle description, and the date of the transaction. This document serves as proof of the sale and can be important for tax purposes.
  • Application for Texas Title: This form is used to apply for a new title after purchasing a vehicle. It must be completed and submitted to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) along with the necessary fees. The application requires information about the vehicle and the buyer.
  • Vehicle Registration Application: After obtaining the title, the new owner must register the vehicle with the DMV. This application includes details about the vehicle and the owner's information. Registration is necessary for legal operation of the vehicle on public roads.

These documents collectively ensure a smooth transition of ownership while adhering to legal requirements. Understanding their roles can help both buyers and sellers navigate the vehicle transfer process more effectively.

Texas Odometer Statement Preview

(Seller/Agent Name)

ODOMETER DISCLOSURE

STATEMENT

VTR-40 (Rev. 11/09)

DHT # 142235

Federal and State Law require that you state the mileage in connection with the transfer of ownership. Failure to complete or providing a false statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment. This form may not be used in conjunction with title transfer documents, which comply with federal and state odometer disclosure requirements such as Texas Certificate of Titles issued on or after April 29, 1990.

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION

Year

Make

Body Style

Model

Vehicle Identification Number

I, ______________________________________________, certify to the best of my knowledge that the odometer reading is

the actual mileage of the vehicle described above unless one of the following statements is checked:

Odometer

Reading

(No Tenths)

1.The mileage stated is in excess of its mechanical limits.

2.The odometer reading is not the actual mileage.

WARNING – ODOMETER DISCREPANCY.

Date ofSignature of Seller/AgentPrinted Name (Same as Signature) Statement

If titled in a firm’s name, print the firm’s name on the line above.

Street Address

City

State

Zip Code

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF ODOMETER DISCLOSURE BY BUYER/AGENT

I am aware of the above odometer certification made by the seller/agent.

Date of

Signature of Buyer/Agent

Printed Name (Same as Signature)

Statement

 

 

If purchased by a firm, print the firm’s name on the line above.

Street Address

City

State

Zip Code

WARNING: TRANSPORTATION CODE, §501.155, PROVIDES THAT FALSIFYING INFORMATION ON ANY REQUIRED STATEMENT OR APPLICATION IS A THIRD-DEGREE FELONY.