No Notary Required for Bill of Sale in Des Moines, WA
Notarization Not Required — Des Moines
Washington does not require notarization for private vehicle bills of sale. Buyer and seller signatures on the completed title assignment are sufficient.
Des Moines Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in Des Moines. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
DOL Vehicle Licensing – Des Moines
Address
Visit https://www.dol.wa.gov for the nearest Des Moines, WA office
Phone
See state DMV website for local office phone numbers
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
Where to Get Notarized in Des Moines
Washington does not require notarization, but some buyers request it for added protection. If you'd like notarization anyway, here are your options in Des Moines:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in 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 Des Moines typically charge $10–$15 per signature. No appointment needed during business hours.
💻 Online Notarization (RON)
Washington 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 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: Washington 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 Des Moines
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in Des Moines, Washington?
- No. Washington does not require notarization for private vehicle bills of sale. Buyer and seller signatures on the completed title assignment are sufficient.
- What is the title transfer fee in Des Moines?
- The title transfer fee in Des Moines County is $12.00. The combined sales tax rate is 8.00%. Washington state rate 6.5% + estimated local taxes (verify with your county)
- Can I use an online notary for my Des Moines car bill of sale?
- Yes. Washington 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 Des Moines?
- The DOL Vehicle Licensing – Des Moines is located at Visit https://www.dol.wa.gov for the nearest Des Moines, WA office. Phone: See state DMV website for local office phone numbers. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–4:30 PM.