No Notary Required for Bill of Sale in Bakersfield, CA
Notarization Not Required — Bakersfield
California does not require notarization for vehicle transfers.
Bakersfield Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in Bakersfield. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
DMV Bakersfield Office
Address
5607 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93309
Phone
(800) 777-0133
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM)
Where to Get Notarized in Bakersfield
California does not require notarization, but some buyers request it for added protection. If you'd like notarization anyway, here are your options in Bakersfield:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in Bakersfield offer free notary services to account holders. Call ahead to confirm availability — walk-in notary hours vary by branch.
📦 UPS Store / FedEx Office
UPS Store and FedEx Office locations in Bakersfield typically charge $10–$15 per signature. No appointment needed during business hours.
💻 Online Notarization (RON)
California accepts Remote Online Notarization. Use Proof (formerly Notarize) or DocuSign Notary for a 15-minute session available 24/7 — typically $15–$25.
🏛️ County Clerk / Recorder
The Kern County courthouse may offer notary services. Contact (661) 868-3588 for hours and fees.
What to Bring to the Notary
- 1A completed, unsigned bill of sale (sign in front of the notary — not before)
- 2Government-issued photo ID: California driver's license, passport, or military ID
- 3The vehicle title (if transferring ownership simultaneously)
- 4Payment for the notary fee ($5–$15 at most locations)
- 5Both buyer and seller must be present if both signatures require notarization
Important
Do not sign your bill of sale before the notary appointment. The notary must personally witness your signature to certify it.
Frequently Asked Questions — Notarizing a Bill of Sale in Bakersfield
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in Bakersfield, California?
- No. California does not require notarization for vehicle transfers.
- What is the title transfer fee in Bakersfield?
- The title transfer fee in Kern County is $23.00. The combined sales tax rate is 8.25%. California state base 7.25% + Kern County 1.0%
- Can I use an online notary for my Bakersfield car bill of sale?
- Yes. California authorizes Remote Online Notarization (RON). Services like Proof and DocuSign Notary let you notarize documents via video call in about 15 minutes, typically for $15–$25. Available 24/7 — no travel required.
- Where is the DMV office near Bakersfield?
- The DMV Bakersfield Office is located at 5607 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93309. Phone: (800) 777-0133. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM).