Ohio Car Title Notarization
Ohio requires notarization on car title transfers. Here is exactly when it applies, what needs to be notarized, and where to get it done.
Notarization Required
Ohio requires the seller's signature on the BMV 3774 title application to be notarized. This is the most common "gotcha" for buyers receiving titles from sellers in other states who did not get their signature notarized.
Seller: RequiredBuyer: Not Required
Exceptions (When Notarization Is NOT Required)
- •Dealer-to-dealer transfers (dealers use their license, not notarized signatures)
- •Dealers selling to consumers (dealer license exempts from notarization)
Private party to private party is the most common transaction and always requires notarization of the BMV 3774 in Ohio.
Where to Get a Car Title Notarized in Ohio
AAA offices (free for members)
Most banks and credit unions (free for customers)
UPS Store (fee applies)
FedEx Office (fee applies)
Many car dealerships (as a courtesy)
County Clerk of Courts offices
Notarization Fees in Ohio
Per Signature Fee
$2–$10 per signature
AAA and bank notarizations are typically free for members/customers. Commercial notary services charge $2–$10 per signature.
Mobile Notary
Available
Mobile notaries in Ohio charge $25–$75 for home/office visits. Useful for large fleet or estate transactions involving multiple vehicles.
Ohio Note
Ohio's notarization requirement surprises buyers from TX, CA, and FL most often. If you're buying from an Ohio seller, confirm they notarize their signature before you accept the title. An un-notarized Ohio title cannot be transferred in Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ohio require a notarized car title?
Yes — Ohio requires notarization for car title transfers. Ohio requires the seller's signature on the BMV 3774 title application to be notarized. This is the most common "gotcha" for buyers receiving titles from sellers in other states who did not get their signature notarized.
Where can I get a car title notarized in Ohio?
In Ohio, you can get a car title notarized at: AAA offices (free for members); Most banks and credit unions (free for customers); UPS Store (fee applies); FedEx Office (fee applies); Many car dealerships (as a courtesy); County Clerk of Courts offices.
How much does notarization cost in Ohio?
$2–$10 per signature. AAA and bank notarizations are typically free for members/customers. Commercial notary services charge $2–$10 per signature.
When is notarization required for Ohio vehicle transfers?
Ohio requires the seller's signature on the BMV 3774 title application to be notarized. This is the most common "gotcha" for buyers receiving titles from sellers in other states who did not get their signature notarized. Exceptions: Dealer-to-dealer transfers (dealers use their license, not notarized signatures); Dealers selling to consumers (dealer license exempts from notarization).