Notarize Car Bill of Sale Online: 2026 Guide
A car bill of sale records the transfer of a vehicle from a seller to a buyer. Depending on the state, the transaction, and the agency receiving the document, the bill of sale may need notarization'or notarization may simply provide an extra layer of identity and signature verification.
If notarization is required and remote online notarization is accepted, you may be able to complete the notarial step online instead of traveling to a bank, shipping store, or local notary. Always confirm the exact form and acceptance rules with the buyer's motor vehicle agency before proceeding.
What Is a Car Bill of Sale?
A vehicle bill of sale is a written record of a private sale. It identifies the buyer and seller, describes the vehicle, states the purchase terms, and records when ownership was transferred. It can help document the transaction for registration, tax, insurance, and recordkeeping purposes.
- Buyer's and seller's full legal names and addresses
- Vehicle year, make, model, body type, and color
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Odometer reading when required
- Purchase price and payment terms
- Date of sale and signatures
- Any required "as-is" or warranty language
Does a Car Bill of Sale Need to Be Notarized?
There is no single nationwide rule. Some states require notarization for certain vehicle-sale documents, while others accept an ordinary signed bill of sale. Requirements can also differ when a title is missing, the vehicle is gifted, the seller signs under a power of attorney, or the agency requires its own form.
Before signing, check the official DMV or motor vehicle agency website for the state where the buyer will title and register the vehicle. Confirm whether the agency requires a specific form, whether both signatures must be notarized, and whether it accepts remote online notarization and electronically notarized documents.
What Does the Notary Verify?
The notary performs the notarial act required by the document, such as an acknowledgment or jurat. For an acknowledgment, the signer confirms that the signature is theirs and that they signed willingly. A jurat generally requires the signer to swear or affirm that the statements are true and to sign as directed during the notarization.
What to Prepare Before Online Notarization
- The completed bill of sale, with signature areas handled as instructed
- An acceptable, unexpired government-issued photo ID
- The exact VIN, checked directly against the vehicle and title
- The agreed purchase price and sale date
- Any title, odometer disclosure, lien release, or state-specific form required separately
- Confirmation that the receiving agency accepts RON and electronic documents
How to Notarize a Car Bill of Sale Online
First, obtain the correct bill of sale form and complete all non-notarial fields. Review every name, date, VIN digit, and price before signing. Then submit the document and identification through the online notary service and follow the signing instructions provided for the required notarial act.
After completion, review the notarized PDF for the signer's name, notarial wording, date, signature, and seal. Keep a copy with the vehicle-sale records and submit it with the other title-transfer documents required by the DMV.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a generic form when the state requires its own form
- Entering one incorrect character in the VIN
- Leaving the sale price or date blank
- Signing too early when the instructions require signing during notarization
- Assuming notarization transfers the title by itself
- Failing to complete a separate odometer disclosure
- Using names that do not match the title or identification
Online vs. In-Person Notarization
| Feature | In-Person Notary | Online Notary |
|---|---|---|
| Travel | Usually requires a local visit | Can be completed remotely when eligible |
| Scheduling | Depends on local hours | Often more convenient after work |
| Document format | Often paper | Typically electronic PDF |
| Acceptance | Confirm agency requirements | Confirm RON and e-document acceptance |
| Best choice | Useful when originals or local handling are required | Useful for eligible documents and remote signers |
Can the Buyer and Seller Be in Different Places?
Possibly. The required signer or signers depend on the form and receiving agency. If both signatures require notarization, each signer may need to complete a compliant notarization. Confirm whether separate certificates, sessions, or original documents are required before starting.
How Much Does It Cost?
Fees vary by provider and transaction. Notary20 offers online notarization for eligible documents for only $20 per document. Before ordering, confirm that the receiving DMV accepts the chosen electronic format and remote notarization.
For a broader comparison, read the Online Notary Cost Guide.
Final Take
You can notarize an eligible car bill of sale online when the document, the applicable state rules, and the receiving agency permit it. Use the correct form, check the VIN carefully, prepare valid identification, and confirm RON acceptance before signing.
Notarization is only one part of a vehicle transfer. Complete the title, odometer, lien, tax, and registration steps required by the buyer's state as well.
Start Your Online Notarization
Upload your eligible car bill of sale and identification and receive the completed notarized PDF by email. If you want a simple flat-price option, start here.