Michigan Department of State Appointment of Agent for Vehicle, Watercraft, or Mobile Home Title Transactions

The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) requires that anyone who wishes to represent another person in a title transaction for a vehicle, watercraft, or mobile home must first be officially appointed as an agent. This page explains who can become an agent, the steps to obtain a proper appointment, the documentation required, and common FAQs.

Who Can Be Appointed?

Any individual or business entity that meets the following criteria may be appointed:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess a valid Michigan drivers license or stateissued ID.
• Have no outstanding warrants, suspensions, or revocations that would affect the ability to act on behalf of another.
• Be trusted by the title owner (the principal).

When Is an Agent Required?

An agent is required whenever the principal cannot appear in person to sign a title or registration document. Common scenarios include:

• Outofstate owners who need a Michigan title.
• Elderly or disabled owners who are unable to travel to a Secretary of State office.
• Business transactions where a dealer or broker handles the paperwork on behalf of the buyer.

Steps to Appoint an Agent

1. Complete the Appointment Form. Use MDOS Form MDOS30 Appointment of Agent for Title Transfer. The form can be downloaded from the MDOS website or obtained in person at any Secretary of State office.
2. Provide Required Identification. Both the principal and the agent must present a valid photo ID. Copies of the IDs must be attached to the form.
3. Sign the Form in the Presence of a Notary. The principals signature must be notarized to verify authenticity. The agents signature does not need notarization unless the principal requests it.
4. Submit the Form. Bring the completed, notarized MDOS30, the IDs, and any applicable fees to a Secretary of State office. The office will review and, if satisfactory, issue an Agent Appointment Letter (AAL) that confirms the agents authority.
5. Use the AAL for Title Transactions. The agent must present the AAL along with the required title documents each time a transaction is processed.

Required Documentation for Title Transactions

When an appointed agent submits a title transaction, the following items must be presented to the MDOS:

Fees Overview (as of 2024)

• Title Transfer: $15
• Registration (first time): $30
• Lien Recording (if applicable): $15 per lien
• Notary Services: Varies typically $10$15 per signature.

Common Questions

Can an agent act for multiple owners?

Yes. Each owner must complete a separate MDOS30 form and receive an individual AAL. The same agent can hold several appointments simultaneously.

What if the principal moves out of state?

The appointment remains valid as long as the AAL is not revoked and the principal continues to own the Michiganregistered item. The agent can still submit transactions on the principals behalf.

How is an appointment revoked?

The principal may submit a written revocation request, signed and notarized, to any Secretary of State office. Once processed, the AAL is voided and the agent can no longer act for that principal.

Do dealers need a special license in addition to being an agent?

Dealers must hold a valid Michigan dealer license issued by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). The dealer license is separate from the agent appointment, though many dealers serve as their own agents for transactions involving their customers.

Is a power of attorney (POA) acceptable instead of an AAL?

MDOS prefers the specific Agent Appointment Letter. A POA may be accepted only if it explicitly authorizes the agent to conduct title transactions and is accompanied by a notarized copy of the POA and the agents identification. In practice, using MDOS30 and the AAL streamlines processing.

Contact Information

If you have additional questions or need assistance completing the appointment, contact the Michigan Department of State:

• Phone: 1800DRIVEMI (18003748346)
• Email: dmvinfo@michigan.gov
• Website: https://www.michigan.gov/sos
• Inperson: Any Secretary of State branch office (find locations here)

By following these guidelines, both principals and agents can ensure that vehicle, watercraft, and mobile home title transactions are processed quickly, legally, and without unnecessary delays.