No Notary Required for Bill of Sale in San Jose, CA
Notarization Not Required — San Jose
California does not require notarization for vehicle transfers. Seller must file REG 138 within 5 days of sale.
San Jose Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in San Jose. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
DMV San Jose – Brokaw Road Office
Address
1520 Brokaw Rd, San Jose, CA 95112
Phone
(800) 777-0133
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM)
Where to Get Notarized in San Jose
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 Jose:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in San Jose 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 Jose 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 Santa Clara County courthouse may offer notary services. Contact (408) 299-5688 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 Jose
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in San Jose, California?
- No. California does not require notarization for vehicle transfers. Seller must file REG 138 within 5 days of sale.
- What is the title transfer fee in San Jose?
- The title transfer fee in Santa Clara County is $15.00. The combined sales tax rate is 9.375%. California state base 7.25% + Santa Clara County 1.875% district tax (Measure B and VTA)
- Can I use an online notary for my San Jose 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 Jose?
- The DMV San Jose – Brokaw Road Office is located at 1520 Brokaw Rd, San Jose, CA 95112. Phone: (800) 777-0133. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM).