No Notary Required for Bill of Sale in San Diego, CA
Notarization Not Required — San Diego
California does not require notarization. Seller must sign the title and submit a Notice of Transfer (REG 138) within 5 days of sale.
San Diego Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in San Diego. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
DMV San Diego – Clairemont Mesa Office
Address
4375 Derrick Dr, San Diego, CA 92117
Phone
(800) 777-0133
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM)
Where to Get Notarized in San Diego
California does not require notarization, but some buyers request it for added protection. If you'd like notarization anyway, here are your options in San Diego:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego County courthouse may offer notary services. Contact (619) 237-0502 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 San Diego
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in San Diego, California?
- No. California does not require notarization. Seller must sign the title and submit a Notice of Transfer (REG 138) within 5 days of sale.
- What is the title transfer fee in San Diego?
- The title transfer fee in San Diego County is $15.00. The combined sales tax rate is 7.75%. California state base 7.25% + San Diego County district tax 0.50%
- Can I use an online notary for my San Diego 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 San Diego?
- The DMV San Diego – Clairemont Mesa Office is located at 4375 Derrick Dr, San Diego, CA 92117. Phone: (800) 777-0133. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM).