How to Notarize a Bill of Sale in California
Whether California requires notarization, where to get it done, how much it costs, and when you should notarize even if it's not legally required.
California does not require notarization of a vehicle bill of sale for registration or title transfer. The DMV uses its own title transfer process (REG 343 form).
Not required for standard private sales. May be requested by lenders or out-of-state buyers.
Where to Get a Bill of Sale Notarized
California title transfers require a signed pink slip (title) and smog certificate. A separate notarized bill of sale is optional but recommended for high-value vehicles as a secondary record.
When to Notarize Even If Not Required
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bill of sale required to be notarized in California?
California does not require notarization of a vehicle bill of sale for registration or title transfer. The DMV uses its own title transfer process (REG 343 form).
Where can I get a bill of sale notarized in California?
In California, you can get a document notarized at a bank or credit union, a UPS Store or FedEx Office, a law office, a real estate office, or through a mobile notary service. Remote online notarization is not currently authorized in California.
How much does notarization cost in California?
California caps notary fees at $15 per signature by state law.
Can I notarize a bill of sale online in California?
California does not currently authorize remote online notarization (RON) for vehicle documents.
When should I notarize a bill of sale even if not required?
Notarizing is recommended for high-value vehicles, when the title cannot be located immediately, for out-of-state sales, for gift transfers, and whenever there is any uncertainty about the other party's identity.
What other documents require notarization when selling a car in California?
Besides the bill of sale, California may require notarization for a power of attorney (if signing on behalf of another), a title correction affidavit, an odometer disclosure statement (in some cases), or a lien release letter. Contact California DMV for the current requirements.
What does a notary actually verify on a bill of sale?
A notary verifies three things: (1) Identity — the signer presents government-issued photo ID and the notary confirms they are who they say they are. (2) Willingness — the notary confirms the signer is signing voluntarily, not under duress. (3) Awareness — the signer appears to understand what they are signing. A notary does NOT verify the accuracy of facts stated in the document, the vehicle's mechanical condition, or the fairness of the price. Notarization establishes who signed and when — nothing more.
Notarization Requirements & Fee Caps: Top 15 States
| State | Bill of Sale | Title Transfer | Notary Fee Cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | Not required | Not required | No cap (typically $10–$15) |
| Texas | Not required* | Not required* | $10 first sig., $1 each add'l (statutory) |
| Florida | Not required | Not required | $10/signature (statutory) |
| New York | Not required | Not required | $2/signature (statutory) |
| Pennsylvania | Not required | Required (both parties) | No cap (free at banks) |
| Ohio | Not required | Not required | No cap (typically $5–$15) |
| Georgia | Not required | Required (seller) | $2/document (statutory) |
| Illinois | Not required | Not required | No cap (currency exchanges $2–$5) |
| North Carolina | Not required | Not required | $5/act (statutory) |
| Michigan | Not required | Not required | No cap (free at banks) |
| Arizona | Not required | Not required | No cap (typically $2–$10) |
| Washington | Not required | Not required | No cap (free at banks) |
| Virginia | Not required | Not required | $5/act (statutory) |
| Colorado | Not required | Not required | No cap (typically $5–$10) |
| Nevada | Not required | Not required | No cap (typically $5–$15) |
* Texas requires notarization for gift transfers (Form 14-317) and heirship transfers (Form VTR-262) — not for standard private sales.