How to Notarize a Bill of Sale in New York
Whether New York requires notarization, where to get it done, how much it costs, and when you should notarize even if it's not legally required.
New York does not require notarization of a vehicle bill of sale. Title transfers use the DMV MV-912 process with the signed title document.
Not required for standard private sales. The title itself must be signed and dated by all registered owners.
Where to Get a Bill of Sale Notarized
New York requires all registered owners to sign the title when selling. If the title shows two owners with "AND," both must sign. If "OR," either can sign. Always complete the odometer disclosure on the reverse of the title.
When to Notarize Even If Not Required
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bill of sale required to be notarized in New York?
New York does not require notarization of a vehicle bill of sale. Title transfers use the DMV MV-912 process with the signed title document.
Where can I get a bill of sale notarized in New York?
In New York, 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 New York.
How much does notarization cost in New York?
New York caps notary fees at $2 per notarial act — the lowest in the country.
Can I notarize a bill of sale online in New York?
New York authorizes remote online notarization. The notary must be licensed in New York.
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 New York?
Besides the bill of sale, New York 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 New York 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.