A North Dakota motor vehicle power of attorney gives a trusted person (the attorney-in-fact) short-term powers to handle tasks regarding their vehicle, such as registering or transferring the vehicle’s title. The vehicle owner must choose a trustworthy friend, family member, or business partner over eighteen (18) years of age to take on the role. The appointed person must perform the tasks by following verbal or written instructions provided by the owner.

An attorney-in-fact’s authority differs based on the services that an owner needs. Compared to other power of attorney forms, the duties assigned with a motor vehicle power of attorney are short-lasting. The form terminates automatically once the attorney-in-fact carries out their responsibilities.

If the attorney-in-fact has questions about their role when acting as a representative, they must contact the owner immediately. Clarifying concerns with the owner prevents the attorney-in-fact from making wrongful or undesired choices. For this reason, the owner must enter their address, phone number, and email. Similarly, including this information allows the Department of Motor Vehicles, buyer, or seller to contact the owner if needed.

With the form in hand, the attorney-in-fact can sign documents, such as applications and affidavits, for the owner. When the attorney-in-fact signs on the owner’s behalf, they must write the letters “POA” next to their name. Other commonly assigned tasks include buying or selling the vehicle, obtaining registration and title, or requesting information about the car.

If the person who created the document is a business owner, they must include the name and contact information of the company. While the form does not need to be notarized, this step officializes the form. If the owner decides to notarize the document, they must show the Notary Public a valid form of identification (ID). Accepted forms of ID include a driver’s license, birth certificate, passport, or military ID.