No Notary Required for Bill of Sale in Charleston, SC
Notarization Not Required — Charleston
South Carolina does not require notarization for private vehicle sales.
Charleston Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in Charleston. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
SC SCDMV – Charleston Office
Address
3790 Leeds Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
Phone
(803) 896-5000
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Where to Get Notarized in Charleston
South Carolina does not require notarization, but some buyers request it for added protection. If you'd like notarization anyway, here are your options in Charleston:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in Charleston 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 Charleston typically charge $10–$15 per signature. No appointment needed during business hours.
💻 Online Notarization (RON)
South Carolina 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 Charleston County courthouse may offer notary services. Contact (843) 958-5000 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: South Carolina 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 Charleston
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in Charleston, South Carolina?
- No. South Carolina does not require notarization for private vehicle sales.
- What is the title transfer fee in Charleston?
- The title transfer fee in Charleston County is $15.00. The combined sales tax rate is 9.00%. South Carolina Infrastructure Maintenance Trust Fund (IMF) fee: $500 max on vehicle purchases instead of regular sales tax
- Can I use an online notary for my Charleston car bill of sale?
- Yes. South Carolina 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 Charleston?
- The SC SCDMV – Charleston Office is located at 3790 Leeds Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405. Phone: (803) 896-5000. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–5:00 PM.