Notary Required for Bill of Sale in West Des Moines, IA
Notarization Required — West Des Moines
Iowa requires notarization of the bill of sale or title assignment for vehicle transfers. Visit a local notary public before submitting documents.
West Des Moines Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in West Des Moines. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
County Treasurer – West Des Moines
Address
Visit https://iowadot.gov/mvd for the nearest West Des Moines, IA office
Phone
See state DMV website for local office phone numbers
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Where to Get Notarized in West Des Moines
Because Iowa requires notarization, you'll need a licensed notary public to witness signatures on your vehicle bill of sale. Here are your options in and around West Des Moines:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in West Des Moines 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 West Des Moines typically charge $10–$15 per signature. No appointment needed during business hours.
💻 Online Notarization (RON)
Iowa 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 West Des Moines County courthouse may offer notary services. Contact See county website for contact information 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: Iowa 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 West Des Moines
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in West Des Moines, Iowa?
- Yes. Iowa requires notarization of the bill of sale or title assignment for vehicle transfers. Visit a local notary public before submitting documents.
- What is the title transfer fee in West Des Moines?
- The title transfer fee in West Des Moines County is $25.00. The combined sales tax rate is 6.50%. Iowa state rate 5% + estimated local taxes (verify with your county)
- Can I use an online notary for my West Des Moines car bill of sale?
- Yes. Iowa 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 West Des Moines?
- The County Treasurer – West Des Moines is located at Visit https://iowadot.gov/mvd for the nearest West Des Moines, IA office. Phone: See state DMV website for local office phone numbers. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–4:30 PM.