Michigan Vehicle Power of Attorney Overview
A Michigan vehicle power of attorney authorizes an agent to handle motor vehicle transactions at the Michigan DMV on behalf of the vehicle owner. This includes title transfers, vehicle registration, buying or selling vehicles, and obtaining duplicate titles.
Michigan's DMV requires the use of Form TR-128 for vehicle power of attorney transactions. Generic POAs will typically be rejected.
The Michigan vehicle POA must be notarized and should identify the specific vehicle by VIN. It is commonly used by military members deployed from Michigan, elderly residents who cannot visit the DMV, out-of-state vehicle owners, and family members helping with vehicle transactions.
TR-128
DMV form
Required
Notarization
Until revoked
Valid duration
Title transfer, registrat...
Transactions
Michigan DMV Requirements
DMV-Specific Form Required
Michigan requires Form TR-128 for vehicle POA transactions. Generic powers of attorney will be rejected at Michigan DMV offices. Our template uses the correct form.
- DMV Form: TR-128
- Notarization: Required for Michigan DMV acceptance
- Vehicle ID: VIN, year, make, model, color, and plate number
- Transactions: Title transfer, registration, plates
- Duration: Until revoked
- Agent ID: The agent must present valid photo ID at the Michigan DMV
How to Create a Michigan Vehicle POA
Enter Owner and Agent Information
Full legal names and addresses of the vehicle owner and the authorized agent.
Identify the Vehicle
Enter the VIN, year, make, model, color, and current Michigan license plate number.
Specify Authorized Transactions
List exactly which DMV transactions the agent can perform: Title transfer, registration, plates.
Sign and Notarize
The vehicle owner must sign before a notary public. The agent takes the notarized POA, along with their photo ID and any required DMV documents, to the Michigan DMV.
Allowed Transactions at Michigan DMV
| Transaction | Details |
|---|---|
| Title Transfer | Sign the title and transfer vehicle ownership at the Michigan DMV |
| Registration | Register a vehicle or renew registration in Michigan |
| Vehicle Sale | Sell the vehicle, sign title, and complete bill of sale on behalf of owner |
| Vehicle Purchase | Buy a vehicle and register it in the owner's name |
| Duplicate Title | Apply for a replacement title if the original is lost or damaged |
| License Plates | Obtain, renew, or transfer Michigan license plates |
Michigan Vehicle POA FAQ
Answers to common questions about Michigan vehicle powers of attorney and DMV transactions.
Official Michigan Resources
Use these official resources for your Michigan vehicle power of attorney.
Michigan DMV
Official Michigan motor vehicle division
USA.gov — Motor Vehicle Services
Federal motor vehicle information and resources
NHTSA — Odometer Requirements
Federal odometer disclosure requirements for vehicle sales
Military OneSource — Legal Assistance
Free legal help for military families including vehicle POA
Other Michigan Power of Attorney Types
Need a different type of power of attorney for Michigan?
Michigan General POA
Broad authority for financial and legal matters
Michigan Durable POA
Remains valid if you become incapacitated
Michigan Medical POA
Healthcare decisions and HIPAA authorization
Michigan Financial POA
Banking, investments, and financial management
Michigan Limited POA
Specific transactions or time-limited authority
Michigan Springing POA
Activates upon a specific event or condition
Michigan Minor Child POA
Temporary guardianship for children
Michigan Real Estate POA
Property transactions and management
Create Your Michigan Vehicle POA
Answer a few questions and download your Michigan DMV-ready document in minutes.
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