A notarized bill of sale for a car documents the vehicle sale with verified signatures from buyer and seller. Some states require notarization for vehicle sales (Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, West Virginia), while others don’t. The bill of sale should include VIN, sale price, odometer reading, buyer/seller info, and signatures. Get it notarized at your bank (free), UPS Store ($5-$15), or online. Here’s exactly what to include, which states require it, and how to complete the process.
What Is a Notarized Bill of Sale for a Car?
A notarized bill of sale is a document that records a vehicle sale with signatures verified by a notary public. It proves who sold the car, who bought it, when the sale happened, and for how much. The notary verifies both parties’ identities and witnesses the signatures, making the document harder to dispute.
The bill of sale is separate from the title transfer—you need both. The title is the official ownership document from the state. The bill of sale is proof of the transaction itself.
Do You Need a Notarized Bill of Sale?
States That Require Notarized Bill of Sale
These states require the bill of sale to be notarized for vehicle sales:
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- West Virginia
States That Require Notarized Title (Not Bill of Sale)
Many states require the title to be notarized when transferring ownership, but not the bill of sale. Check your state’s DMV website for specific requirements.
When You Should Get It Notarized Anyway
Even if your state doesn’t require it, notarization is a good idea when:
- Selling to a stranger: Protects you if they claim the sale never happened
- High-value vehicle: More protection for expensive transactions
- Cash transaction: No bank record of payment
- You want extra protection: Makes it harder for either party to dispute the terms
What to Include in a Bill of Sale for a Car
Required Information
- Date of sale
- Sale price (write out amount and use numbers: “Five thousand dollars ($5,000)”)
- Vehicle information: Year, make, model, color
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): 17-character code found on dashboard or driver’s door jamb
- Odometer reading: Current mileage at time of sale
- Seller information: Full legal name, address, phone number
- Buyer information: Full legal name, address, phone number
- Signatures: Both buyer and seller must sign
Optional But Recommended
- “As-is” statement: “Vehicle sold as-is with no warranty expressed or implied”
- Payment method: Cash, check, bank transfer
- Lien statement: “Vehicle is free of liens” or disclose any existing liens
- License plate number
Where to Get a Bill of Sale Form
Free State DMV Forms
Most state DMVs provide free bill of sale forms on their websites. Search “[your state] DMV bill of sale” to find the official form. Using your state’s form ensures you meet local requirements.
Generic Forms
If your state doesn’t provide a form, generic vehicle bill of sale templates are available free online. Make sure any form you use includes all required information listed above.
How to Get Your Bill of Sale Notarized
Step 1: Complete the Form (Don’t Sign Yet)
Fill in all information on the bill of sale, but do not sign until you’re in front of the notary. The notary must witness both signatures.
Step 2: Both Parties Meet the Notary
Both buyer and seller must be present with valid photo ID. The notary will verify identities and watch both parties sign.
Step 3: Notary Applies Seal
After witnessing signatures, the notary applies their official seal and signature, completing the notarization.
Where to Get a Bill of Sale Notarized
Banks (Free)
Most banks offer free notary services to account holders. Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and credit unions typically have notaries available. Call ahead to confirm.
UPS Store ($5-$15)
UPS Store locations have notaries available during business hours. Walk-ins welcome, but call to confirm the notary is working.
Online Notarization ($25-$50)
If buyer and seller are in different locations, or you need notarization after hours, BlueNotary offers online notarization. Both parties connect via video call, verify identity, sign electronically, and receive the notarized document—all in about 15 minutes. Available 24/7.
Mobile Notary ($50-$150)
A mobile notary can meet both parties at a convenient location. Search “mobile notary near me” to find one.
How Much Does It Cost to Notarize a Bill of Sale?
- Banks: Free for customers
- Credit unions: Free for members
- UPS Store: $5-$15 per signature
- Online notarization: $25-$50 per session
- Mobile notary: $50-$150 (includes travel)
What to Bring to the Notary
- Completed bill of sale (unsigned)
- Valid photo ID for both buyer and seller
- Vehicle title (if also transferring title)
- Payment for notary fee (if applicable)
After the Bill of Sale Is Notarized
- Make copies: Both buyer and seller should keep a copy
- Transfer the title: Seller signs over the title to buyer
- Buyer registers the vehicle: Take bill of sale and title to DMV
- Seller notifies DMV: Report the sale to avoid liability for future tickets/accidents
- Keep records: Store your copy for at least 3-5 years
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a bill of sale for a car need to be notarized?
It depends on your state. Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and West Virginia require notarized bills of sale. Other states don’t require it, but notarization adds legal protection. Check your state DMV for specific requirements.
What if the buyer and seller can’t meet in person?
Use online notarization. Both parties connect via video call with a licensed notary, verify identity, and sign electronically. BlueNotary offers this service 24/7. Some states may have restrictions on remote notarization, so check your state’s rules.
Is a bill of sale the same as a title?
No. The title is the official state document showing who owns the vehicle. The bill of sale is proof of the transaction—it documents that a sale occurred. You need both: the seller signs over the title, and the bill of sale records the details of the sale.
Can I write my own bill of sale?
Yes. As long as it includes all required information (buyer/seller info, vehicle details, VIN, price, date, signatures), a handwritten bill of sale is valid. However, using your state’s official form or a standard template is recommended to ensure nothing is missed.
How much does it cost to notarize a bill of sale?
Free at your bank (for customers), $5-$15 at UPS Store, $25-$50 for online notarization, or $50-$150 for a mobile notary. Banks and credit unions are the cheapest option if you have an account.
What if I buy a car and the seller won’t provide a bill of sale?
Don’t complete the purchase. A bill of sale protects you as the buyer. Without it, you have no proof of what you paid or that the sale was legitimate. This is especially risky with private sales.
The Bottom Line
A notarized bill of sale for a car documents your vehicle transaction with verified signatures. It’s required in some states (Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, West Virginia) and recommended for any private sale.
To complete a notarized bill of sale:
- Get your state’s bill of sale form (or use a generic template)
- Fill in all vehicle and buyer/seller information
- Both parties meet at a notary with valid ID
- Sign in front of the notary
- Keep copies and complete the title transfer
Get it notarized free at your bank, $5-$15 at UPS Store, or use BlueNotary for online notarization if buyer and seller can’t meet in person—available 24/7.
