How to Notarize a Bill of Sale in Florida
Whether Florida requires notarization, where to get it done, how much it costs, and when you should notarize even if it's not legally required.
Florida does not require notarization for a standard vehicle bill of sale. Title transfers are handled through the DHSMV using a signed title.
Not required for standard private sales. Some lenders and dealers may request notarization as an internal requirement.
Where to Get a Bill of Sale Notarized
Florida title transfers require the seller's signature on the reverse of the title and an odometer disclosure. A bill of sale is not required by the state but is strongly recommended to document the sale.
When to Notarize Even If Not Required
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bill of sale required to be notarized in Florida?
Florida does not require notarization for a standard vehicle bill of sale. Title transfers are handled through the DHSMV using a signed title.
Where can I get a bill of sale notarized in Florida?
In Florida, 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 (RON) is also available in Florida.
How much does notarization cost in Florida?
Florida caps notary fees at $10 per notarial act.
Can I notarize a bill of sale online in Florida?
Florida authorizes remote online notarization. The notary must be physically located in Florida at the time of notarization.
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 Florida?
Besides the bill of sale, Florida 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 Florida DHSMV 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.