No Notary Required for Bill of Sale in Santa Barbara, CA
Notarization Not Required — Santa Barbara
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.
Santa Barbara Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in Santa Barbara. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
California DMV – Santa Barbara
Address
128 E Ortega St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone
(800) 777-0133
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM)
Where to Get Notarized in Santa Barbara
California does not require notarization, but some buyers request it for added protection. If you'd like notarization anyway, here are your options in Santa Barbara:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara 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 Barbara County courthouse may offer notary services. Contact (805) 568-2250 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 Santa Barbara
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara?
- The title transfer fee in Santa Barbara County is $15.00. The combined sales tax rate is 8.75%. California state rate 7.25% + Santa Barbara County district taxes 1.50%
- Can I use an online notary for my Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara?
- The California DMV – Santa Barbara is located at 128 E Ortega St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Phone: (800) 777-0133. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM).