Table of Contents
When buying or selling a vehicle in Texas, the Odometer Disclosure Statement form, known as VTR-40, plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency regarding the vehicle's mileage. This form is not merely a formality; it is a legal requirement mandated by both federal and state laws. The primary purpose of the form is to document the odometer reading at the time of ownership transfer, thereby protecting both the buyer and the seller from potential fraud. Failing to accurately complete this form or providing misleading information can lead to serious consequences, including fines or even imprisonment. The form captures essential details such as the vehicle's year, make, model, body style, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), alongside the seller's certification that the stated mileage is accurate. It also includes important disclaimers for situations where the odometer reading may not reflect the true mileage, such as when the mileage exceeds the mechanical limits of the odometer or if there are discrepancies. The buyer's acknowledgment of the odometer disclosure is equally vital, as it signifies their awareness of the seller's claims. This form, however, cannot be used in conjunction with title transfer documents that already meet the odometer disclosure requirements, particularly those issued after April 29, 1990. Understanding the significance of the Texas Odometer Statement form is essential for anyone involved in a vehicle transaction, ensuring a smoother and legally compliant transfer of ownership.
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Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Texas Odometer Statement form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below are six things to do and avoid during this process.
- Do provide accurate information regarding the vehicle's mileage.
- Do check the appropriate box if the odometer reading is not the actual mileage.
- Do sign and date the form in the designated areas.
- Do include the correct Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Don't leave any sections of the form blank.
- Don't provide false information, as this may lead to legal consequences.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth transaction when transferring vehicle ownership in Texas.
Texas Odometer Statement Sample
(Seller/Agent Name)
ODOMETER DISCLOSURE
STATEMENT
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
Listed Questions and Answers
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What is the purpose of the Texas Odometer Statement form?
The Texas Odometer Statement form, officially known as VTR-40, is required when transferring ownership of a vehicle. This form serves to disclose the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. Both federal and state laws mandate that this information be accurately reported. Failing to complete the form or providing false information can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines or imprisonment.
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Who is responsible for completing the Texas Odometer Statement?
The seller or their authorized agent is responsible for completing the Texas Odometer Statement. The form must include the vehicle's description, including its year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN). Additionally, the seller must certify that the odometer reading reflects the actual mileage, unless certain exceptions apply, such as the mileage exceeding mechanical limits or being inaccurate.
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What happens if the Odometer Statement is not completed correctly?
If the Odometer Statement is not filled out correctly, it can lead to complications during the vehicle title transfer process. The buyer may face difficulties registering the vehicle in their name. Moreover, providing false information on the form is a serious offense. It can be classified as a third-degree felony under Texas Transportation Code, which carries significant legal repercussions.
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Is the Texas Odometer Statement necessary for all vehicle sales?
Not all vehicle sales require the Texas Odometer Statement. This form is specifically needed when transferring ownership of a vehicle that does not have a title issued on or after April 29, 1990. For vehicles that do have a compliant title, the odometer disclosure is typically included within the title transfer documents themselves, making the separate form unnecessary.
Form Overview
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Form Title | The form is officially titled "Odometer Disclosure Statement" and is designated as VTR-40. |
| Legal Requirement | Federal and state law mandates that the mileage must be disclosed during the transfer of vehicle ownership. |
| Consequences of False Statements | Providing a false statement or failing to complete the form can lead to fines and/or imprisonment. |
| Usage Restrictions | This form cannot be used with title transfer documents that already meet federal and state odometer disclosure requirements. |
| Certification of Mileage | The seller must certify that the odometer reading reflects the actual mileage, unless exceptions apply. |
| Governing Law | Transportation Code, §501.155, states that falsifying information on this form is a third-degree felony. |