No Notary Required for Bill of Sale in Berkeley, CA
Notarization Not Required — Berkeley
California does not require notarization for a standard vehicle bill of sale; a REG 135 or written bill of sale with both signatures is sufficient.
Berkeley Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in Berkeley. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
California DMV – Berkeley
Address
400 Hearst Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone
(800) 777-0133
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM)
Where to Get Notarized in Berkeley
California does not require notarization, but some buyers request it for added protection. If you'd like notarization anyway, here are your options in Berkeley:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Alameda County courthouse may offer notary services. Contact (510) 272-6362 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 Berkeley
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in Berkeley, California?
- No. California does not require notarization for a standard vehicle bill of sale; a REG 135 or written bill of sale with both signatures is sufficient.
- What is the title transfer fee in Berkeley?
- The title transfer fee in Alameda County is $15.00. The combined sales tax rate is 10.25%. California state rate 7.25% + Alameda County/Berkeley district taxes 3.00%
- Can I use an online notary for my Berkeley 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 Berkeley?
- The California DMV – Berkeley is located at 400 Hearst Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710. Phone: (800) 777-0133. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM).