Bill of Sale Notarization Guide
Everything you need to know about notarizing your bill of sale
Quick Answer
22 states require notarization for vehicle bills of sale. Even if your state doesn't require it, notarization adds legal protection and may be requested by banks, DMVs, or buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is notarization?
Notarization is the official fraud-deterrent process where a commissioned notary public verifies the identity of signers, witnesses the signing of documents, and certifies the authenticity with an official seal and signature. This adds a layer of legal validity and helps prevent fraud.
Which states require notarization for bills of sale?
The following states require notarized bills of sale for vehicle transfers:
What if my state doesn't require notarization?
Even if your state doesn't legally require notarization, it's often a good idea to get the bill of sale notarized:
- Extra legal protection: Makes it harder for someone to claim they didn't sign
- DMV preference: Some DMV offices prefer or request notarized documents
- Buyer confidence: Gives buyers peace of mind about the transaction
- Lender requirements: Banks financing the purchase may require notarization
- Out-of-state sales: If buyer is from a state requiring notarization, it may be needed
Where can I get a bill of sale notarized?
You can find notary public services at many locations:
Banks and Credit Unions
Often free for account holders, by appointment or walk-in
UPS Stores and Pack & Ship Centers
Usually $5-$15 per signature, no appointment needed
AAA Offices
Free for AAA members, walk-in service
Law Offices and Real Estate Offices
Usually have notaries on staff, may charge $10-$25
Mobile Notary Services
Come to your location, typically $50-$100+ depending on distance
Online Notary Services (RON)
Remote Online Notarization via video call, $25-$50 (available in most states)
How much does notarization cost?
Notarization fees vary by state and provider:
- State maximum fees: $2-$15 per signature (set by state law)
- Typical charges: $5-$15 per signature at retail locations
- Mobile notaries: $50-$150 including travel fee
- Banks/credit unions: Often free for customers
- Online notarization: $25-$50 per session
💡 Tip: Call ahead to confirm prices and availability. Some notaries charge per signature, so if you have both buyer and seller signing, costs can add up.
What do I need to bring to get a document notarized?
Valid Photo ID
Driver's license, passport, or state ID (must be current, not expired)
The Unsigned Document
DO NOT sign before meeting the notary—must sign in their presence
All Parties Present
Both buyer and seller must appear together with their IDs
Payment
Cash or card for notary fees (confirm payment methods ahead of time)
Can I use online notarization?
Yes, in most states! Remote Online Notarization (RON) is now legal in 45+ states. It works like this:
- Schedule a session with an online notary service
- Upload your document and ID
- Join a video call with the notary
- Verify your identity via ID and knowledge-based questions
- Sign the document electronically while on video
- Receive the notarized document via email/download
Important: Check if your state and local DMV accept electronically notarized documents. Some still require wet-ink signatures and physical notary seals.
What happens during the notarization process?
Here's what to expect:
Identity Verification
Notary checks your photo ID to confirm you are who you claim to be
Document Review
Notary reviews the document to ensure it's complete (but doesn't verify content accuracy)
Oath or Affirmation
You may be asked to swear or affirm that you're signing voluntarily
Signing
You sign the document in the notary's presence
Notary Certification
Notary adds their signature, seal, and certificate details (date, location, etc.)
Record Keeping
Notary records transaction in their journal (required in some states)
⏱️ The entire process typically takes 5-10 minutes.
Do both buyer and seller need to be present?
Yes, in most cases. For a bill of sale, both the buyer and seller must appear before the notary at the same time (or in separate sessions if using a mobile notary who travels to each party).
If one party cannot be present, you may need a power of attorney document allowing someone else to sign on their behalf. This is complex and typically requires legal advice.
What if I've already signed the document?
You'll need to create a new document. Notaries must witness the actual signing—they cannot notarize a document that's already been signed.
⚠️ Never sign a bill of sale before going to the notary if notarization is required. This will result in rejection and wasted time.
Can a family member or friend notarize my document?
No. Notaries are prohibited from notarizing documents for:
- Immediate family members (spouse, parents, children, siblings)
- Anyone they have a financial interest in the transaction
- Themselves
Violating these rules can result in the notary losing their commission and the document being invalidated.
How long is a notarized document valid?
A notarized bill of sale doesn't "expire," but DMVs often require documents to be recent. Most states require title transfer and registration within 30-90 days of the sale date shown on the bill of sale.
If you wait too long, the DMV may question why there was a delay and could request additional documentation.
Common Notarization Mistakes
Ready to Create Your Bill of Sale?
Use our state-specific generator, then take it to a notary if required by your state.
Planning a major purchase? Use