Notarized Bill of Sale: Complete Guide

Some states require your bill of sale to be notarized before it's considered legally valid. Here's everything you need to know about notarization requirements, where to get it done, and what it costs.

What Is Notarization?

Notarization is the process of having a state-commissioned notary public verify the identities of the people signing a document and witness their signatures. The notary applies their official seal to the document, adding a layer of legal authentication.

A notarized bill of sale is harder to dispute in court because a neutral third party has verified that both parties willingly signed the document and are who they claim to be.

States That Require Notarization (5 states)

States That Don't Require Notarization (45 states)

Even in these states, notarization is recommended for high-value transactions:

Where to Get a Bill of Sale Notarized

• Banks and credit unions: Most offer free notary services for account holders.
• UPS Stores: Typically $5–$15 per signature.
• FedEx Office: Most locations offer notary services.
• Law offices: Many have notaries on staff.
• AAA offices: If you're a member, many locations offer notary services.
• Online notarization: Many states now accept remote online notarization (RON). Services like Notarize.com allow you to get documents notarized via video call.

How Much Does Notarization Cost?

Notarization fees vary by state but typically range from $2 to $15 per signature. Most states set maximum allowable fees by law. Many banks offer free notary services to customers.

Tips for Getting Notarized

• Both buyer and seller must be present (or use remote notarization if your state allows it)
• Bring valid government-issued photo ID
• Do NOT sign the document before meeting the notary — they need to witness the signing
• The notary will fill in their section, apply their seal, and sign
• Make sure the notary's commission is current and valid in your state