Notarized Car Title Requirements State By State Definitive Guide

Selling your car and find yourself staring at the title, completely stumped? You’re not alone. That single piece of paper is the key to a legal transfer, but the rules surrounding it can feel intentionally confusing, especially the question of notarization. One wrong step, and you could face frustrating delays at the DMV.

A notarized car title is a legal requirement that varies significantly by state; it is not a universal mandate. The process involves a licensed Notary Public officially witnessing the signing of the title, which serves to verify the identities of the parties involved and prevent fraud. This validation is a critical step in the transfer of ownership in certain jurisdictions.

Drawing from a comprehensive analysis of state-level MVD statutes and official title transfer procedures, this guide cuts through the confusion. We’ll provide a definitive, state-by-state breakdown of notarization requirements. You’ll learn exactly what your state demands for a smooth, legally sound vehicle sale.

Key Facts

• State-Specific Mandate: The requirement for title notarization is not a federal law but is dictated by individual state statutes, with the majority of states (approximately 40) not requiring it for a standard vehicle transfer.
• Purpose is Fraud Prevention: The primary role of notarization in a title transfer is to have an impartial, state-licensed witness (the Notary Public) verify the identity of the person signing the title, which helps prevent forgeries and fraudulent sales.
• Failure to Comply Halts Registration: If your state requires notarization and you fail to complete it, the buyer will be unable to register the vehicle, as the DMV or MVD will reject the “defective title” application.
• Legislative Changes Occur: Title laws are subject to change. For example, Montana’s long-standing notarization requirement is set to be eliminated on October 1, 2025, due to new legislation (HB165).
• Seller’s Signature is Key: In states that mandate notarization, it is almost always the seller’s signature that must be witnessed and notarized, as they are the party legally assigning ownership.

What Is the Law: Does a Car Title Need to Be Notarized?

The requirement to notarize a car title is not a universal rule; it is entirely dependent on the specific laws of the state where the vehicle is titled. A Certificate of Title is the legal proof of ownership, and notarization is a formal process where a licensed Notary Public verifies the identity of the person signing the document. This act of official verification adds a layer of legal security to the vehicle ownership transfer, helping to prevent fraud.

The core purpose of this MVD mandate is to legally certify that the person signing over the title is the true owner. Think of the Notary Public as an official witness appointed by the state. They don’t check the vehicle’s condition or the sale price; their sole job is to confirm “you are who you say you are” by checking your government-issued ID and watching you sign the document. This prevents someone from, for example, stealing a title and forging the owner’s signature to sell the car.

The Bottom Line: While most states have simplified their title process and do not require notarization, several key states still mandate it. Failing to comply with your state’s specific statute will result in the rejection of the title application by the DMV, causing significant delays for the buyer. Which category does your state fall into? Let’s find out.

Key takeaways about the law include:
* It’s a state statute citation, not a federal one.
* The goal is to provide legal owner verification.
* Compliance is mandatory for a valid title transfer in specific states.

What States Require Car Titles to Be Notarized for Transfer?

As of 2026, only a minority of states mandate that a car title must be notarized to be legally transferred. This is a critical detail, as attempting to register a vehicle with an un-notarized title in a state that requires it will lead to immediate rejection by the DMV or MVD. The table below provides a comprehensive state-by-state breakdown of vehicle title notarization requirements.

Disclaimer: State laws can change. This information is updated for 2026, but you should always confirm current title procedures with your local DMV or MVD before finalizing a sale.

State	Notarization Required?	Parties Required (If Yes)	Specific Exceptions/Notes
Alabama	No	N/A	Not required for general title assignment.
Alaska	No	N/A	Signatures must be present but not notarized.
Arizona	Yes	Seller	Required for seller’s signature on title assignment.
Arkansas	No	N/A	Not required.
California	No	N/A	Odometer disclosure must be signed, but not notarized.
Colorado	No	N/A	Not required for standard private sales.
Connecticut	No	N/A	Not required.
Delaware	No	N/A	Not required.
Florida	No	N/A	Not required for general title assignment.
Georgia	No	N/A	Title must be properly executed, but not notarized.
Hawaii	No	N/A	Not required.
Idaho	No	N/A	Not required.
Illinois	No	N/A	Not required.
Indiana	No	N/A	Not required.
Iowa	No	N/A	Not required.
Kansas	No	N/A	Not required.
Kentucky	Yes	Seller (sometimes buyer)	Often required for all signatures on the title.
Louisiana	Yes (Conditional)	Seller	Required on the Bill of Sale, and sometimes on the title itself.
Maine	No	N/A	Not required for vehicles over 15 years old.
Maryland	No	N/A	Not required.
Massachusetts	No	N/A	Not required.
Michigan	No	N/A	Not required.
Minnesota	No	N/A	Not required.
Mississippi	No	N/A	Not required.
Missouri	No	N/A	Not required.
Montana	Yes (Until Oct 1, 2025)	Seller	NOTE: Requirement is scheduled to be removed on Oct 1, 2025.
Nebraska	No	N/A	Not required.
Nevada	No	N/A	Not required.
New Hampshire	No	N/A	Not required.
New Jersey	No	N/A	Not required.
New Mexico	No	N/A	Not required.
New York	No	N/A	Not required.
North Carolina	Yes	Seller	Required for seller’s signature on the title.
North Dakota	Yes	Seller	Seller’s signature must be notarized.
Ohio	Yes	Seller	Required for seller’s signature to be verified.
Oklahoma	Yes	Seller	Seller’s signature must be notarized.
Oregon	No	N/A	Not required.
Pennsylvania	Yes	Seller (sometimes buyer)	Both parties may need to sign before a notary or authorized agent.
Rhode Island	No	N/A	Not required.
South Carolina	No	N/A	Not required.
South Dakota	No	N/A	Not required.
Tennessee	No	N/A	Not required.
Texas	No	N/A	No general requirement for notarization.
Utah	No	N/A	Not required.
Vermont	No	N/A	Not required.
Virginia	No	N/A	Not required.
Washington	No	N/A	Not required.
West Virginia	Yes (Conditional)	Seller	Required if there is an active lien on the title.
Wisconsin	No	N/A	Not required.
Wyoming	Yes	Seller & Lienholder	Required for seller and any lienholder release signatures.

What Is the New Law Regarding Car Title Notarization in Montana?

Montana car title notarization is currently required by law, but House Bill 165 (HB165) eliminates this requirement effective October 1, 2025. This legislative change is designed to streamline the title transfer process for private sellers and buyers by removing the often inconvenient step of finding a notary.

Key Legislative Change: Citing HB165, the mandate for a notarized seller signature on a Certificate of Title will be removed. The effective date of this change is crucial for anyone involved in a private vehicle sale.

• Before October 1, 2025: You MUST have the seller’s signature notarized.
• On or After October 1, 2025: Notarization will no longer be required for the title transfer.

This change aligns Montana with the majority of states that have already adopted a simplified title process. If you are transferring a title in Montana before this date, ensure a notary is present to witness the seller’s signature to avoid rejection at the MVD.

How Do You Get a Car Title Notarized Properly?

To properly notarize a car title, the person whose signature is required (usually the seller) must sign the document in the physical presence of a licensed Notary Public after presenting valid government-issued photo identification. The cardinal rule is simple: do not sign the title beforehand. The notary’s primary function is to witness the signature, and signing it in advance invalidates the entire purpose of the act.

Follow these sequential steps for a legally sound notarization:

1. Prepare Your Documents: Gather the original, unsigned Certificate of Title and ensure all information is accurate. Locate the specific section for “Assignment of Title by Owner” or “Transfer by Owner” where you will need to sign.

2. Locate a Notary Public: You can typically find a Notary Public at banks, credit unions, shipping stores (like UPS Stores), or local government offices. Mobile notaries are also available who can travel to your location for an additional fee.

3. Present Valid Identification: All signers must present a current, unexpired government-issued photo ID. This can be a driver’s license, state ID card, military ID, or passport. The name on the ID must exactly match the name on the car title.

4. Sign in the Notary’s Presence: With the notary watching, sign your name exactly as it appears on the title in the designated signature line. Use black or blue ink as specified by your state.

5. Notary Completes Their Part: After witnessing your signature, the notary will complete the notarial certificate on the title. This involves signing their name, affixing their official seal or stamp, and recording the date. They will also typically make an entry in their notary journal.

6. Pay the Notary Fee: A small fee, usually set by state law, is required for the service.

Once these steps are complete, the title is legally notarized and ready to be given to the buyer to complete the registration process at the DMV.

What Documents Are Needed to Notarize a Car Title?

To prepare for car title notarization, you will need the unsigned Certificate of Title, a current government-issued photo ID, and funds for the notary fee. Depending on your state, additional paperwork might be necessary to complete the vehicle transfer, although not all of it requires notarization.

Here is a checklist of what to bring:

• ✅ The Original Certificate of Title: Make sure it is the official document, not a copy, and that you have not signed it yet.
• ✅ Valid Government-Issued Photo Identification: A driver’s license, passport, or state ID card is required for every person who needs to sign the title in front of the notary. The ID must not be expired.
• ✅ Payment for Notary Fees: Notary fees are typically regulated by the state and are usually modest.
• ✅ Supporting Documents (If Required): While not always notarized, bring any other required transfer documents, such as a Bill of Sale or an Odometer Disclosure Statement, to complete the sale paperwork in one go.

Pro Tip: Before you go, call the bank or notary office to confirm what forms of ID they accept and their fee for the service. This quick call can save you a second trip.

Do Both Parties Need to Be Present When Notarizing a Car Title?

Typically, only the seller’s signature on the title assignment section requires notarization, meaning only the seller must appear before the notary. The purpose of the notarization is to verify the identity of the legal owner who is relinquishing their rights to the vehicle.

However, this is not a universal rule. In a few states, such as Kentucky and Pennsylvania, the title form may have designated spaces for both the seller’s and the buyer’s notarized signatures. In these cases, both parties must attend the notarization appointment, either together or separately with different notaries.

Here’s how to know for sure:
* Examine the Title: Look closely at the “Transfer by Owner” section. If there is a notary block next to both the seller’s and buyer’s signature lines, then both must be present.
* Check State Law: When in doubt, a quick check of your state’s DMV website will clarify who is required to sign before a notary.

A common mistake is assuming both must be present. For most transactions, coordinating a joint appointment is unnecessary; the seller can have their signature notarized and then hand the title to the buyer to complete the transfer at the DMV.

What Happens If I Don’t Notarize My Car Title?

The primary consequence of failing to notarize a car title when mandated is the DMV’s rejection of the title transfer application. This creates a cascade of legal and logistical problems for both the buyer and the seller. The un-notarized document is considered a “defective title,” meaning it cannot be used to legally register the vehicle.

Failing to comply with notarization laws where required leads to several critical issues:

• Rejection of Title Application: The buyer will take the improperly executed title to the DMV, and the clerk will refuse to process the transfer. They will be unable to get license plates or legally drive the car.
• Buyer Cannot Register the Vehicle: Without a valid title transfer, the buyer has no legal proof of ownership. They cannot insure the vehicle in their name or operate it on public roads.
• Seller Retains Legal Liability: The sale is not legally complete until the title is successfully transferred. This means the seller could still be held liable for any parking tickets, toll violations, or even accidents involving the vehicle.
• Complicated and Costly Fixes: Correcting the mistake often requires tracking down the other party, obtaining affidavits, or applying for a duplicate title, all of which take time and money.

In short, skipping this step in a state that requires it doesn’t save time—it creates a significant legal headache and can put the entire sale in jeopardy.

How Can You Fix an Incorrectly Signed or Un-Notarized Title?

The best way to fix an incorrectly signed or un-notarized title is to contact your state’s DMV or MVD immediately to obtain an Affidavit of Correction form. This sworn statement allows you to legally explain and correct the error. Never attempt to alter the title yourself by scribbling out mistakes or using white-out, as this will void the document entirely.

If you find yourself with a defective title, here are the most common resolution paths:

1. Use an Affidavit of Correction: Most states provide a specific form (often called an “Affidavit of Fact” or “Statement of Correction”) where both the buyer and seller can attest to the error under oath. This document is then submitted along with the original title. In many cases, the affidavit itself will need to be notarized.
2. Apply for a Duplicate Title: If the error is major or the original title is voided due to alterations, the seller may need to apply for a duplicate title from the DMV. Once the clean duplicate arrives, you can restart the signing and notarization process correctly.
3. Obtain a Bonded Title: In a worst-case scenario where the seller is unavailable and the title is defective, the buyer may need to pursue a bonded title. This is a more complex and expensive process that involves purchasing a surety bond to protect against potential claims on the vehicle.

The key is to act quickly and follow the precise title correction procedure outlined by your state’s motor vehicle agency.

Do Out-Of-State or Special Vehicle Titles Need Notarization?

Yes, out-of-state and special vehicle titles often have specific notarization requirements, which are typically governed by the laws of the state where the vehicle is being registered. This adds a layer of complexity compared to a standard in-state transfer. It’s a critical detail that is often overlooked.

The cardinal rule for interstate transfers is that the buyer must comply with the title and registration laws of their home state (the receiving state). For example, if you buy a car in Texas (a non-notary state) and plan to register it in Arizona (a notary state), you will likely need to ensure the Texas title is properly notarized according to Arizona’s standards before you can register it.

Special title situations also carry unique rules:
* Inherited Titles: When transferring a title from a deceased person’s estate, the executor’s signature often must be notarized. You will also need supporting legal documents, like letters of testamentary.
* Salvage or Rebuilt Titles: These “branded” titles often face higher scrutiny at the DMV. Some states require notarized affidavits or inspection forms to ensure the vehicle’s history is properly documented.
* Titles Transferred with Power of Attorney (POA): If someone is signing the title on behalf of the owner using a POA, that signature almost universally requires notarization to prove the agent has the legal authority to act.

Is Remote Online Notarization Acceptable for Vehicle Titles?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) is generally not accepted by most DMVs for vehicle title transfers, even if RON is legal in the state. While RON—where a notary verifies identity and witnesses a signature via secure video call—is legally valid for many documents, Certificates of Title present a unique challenge.

The primary issue is that vehicle titles are proprietary, state-issued security documents that require physical handling. Most DMV and MVD agencies have not yet developed protocols to accept an electronically notarized title. They typically require the original paper title with a physical “wet ink” signature and an embossed or stamped notary seal.

Here’s a breakdown of the current situation as of 2026:
* RON Legality: Many states have passed laws making RON a legal method of notarization for general documents.
* DMV Acceptance: The vast majority of DMVs have not updated their rules to accept it for title assignments.
* Recommended Method: For vehicle titles, traditional in-person notarization (at a bank, a notary office, or via a mobile notary) remains the only universally accepted method.

Before attempting to use an online notary for a car title, you must contact the receiving state’s DMV directly to confirm if they will accept it. In almost all cases, the answer will be no.

FAQs About does a car title need to be notarized

Can the DMV Notarize a Title Form or Title Application?

Generally, no. The vast majority of state DMV or MVD offices do not have staff who can act as a Notary Public for the general public. Their role is to process completed paperwork. You are expected to have all required documents, including the notarized car title, completed before you arrive for your appointment. It is best to use a third-party service like a bank or private notary.

What Is the Difference Between a Jurat and an Acknowledgment on Titles?

An Acknowledgment verifies that a signature is genuine, while a Jurat requires the signer to swear or affirm that the contents of the document are true. For a standard title signature, an Acknowledgment is common. For supporting documents like an Odometer Disclosure Statement or an Affidavit of Correction, a Jurat is often required because you are attesting to the truthfulness of specific facts (like mileage).

What Is the Average Cost to Notarize a Car Title?

The cost to notarize a car title is set by state law and typically ranges from $5 to $25 per signature. This fee is for the official notarial act. If you hire a mobile notary to travel to your location, they will charge the state-mandated fee plus a separate travel fee, which can range from $25 to $100 or more depending on the distance and time.

How Long Is a Notarized Car Title Valid for After Signing?

A notarization itself doesn’t expire, but states require the buyer to apply for the new title within a specific timeframe, usually 10 to 30 days from the sale date. The notarization permanently captures the date the signature was witnessed. Failing to submit the title to the DMV within the state’s required window can lead to late fees and other penalties for the buyer.

Who Is Responsible for Notarization: The Buyer or the Seller?

The seller is almost always the party responsible for getting their signature notarized. Since the seller is the one legally transferring ownership, it is their identity and signature that must be verified. The buyer’s primary responsibility is to take the properly executed title to the DMV to complete the registration process and pay the applicable sales tax and title transfer fees.

Can I Use an Expired Identification Document for Notarization?

No, you absolutely cannot use an expired ID for notarization. A Notary Public is legally required to verify identity using a current, valid government-issued photo identification document. An expired driver’s license, passport, or state ID will be rejected by the notary, as it does not meet the legal standard for positive identification.

What are the Penalties for Failing to Notarize a Car Title?

The main penalties are the rejection of the title application by the DMV, which prevents the buyer from registering the car, and potential late fees. For the seller, the risk is continued legal liability for the vehicle. In cases where fraud is suspected, more severe legal consequences could apply. The process to fix the error is often time-consuming and can be costly.

Does a Notary Need to See My Car or VIN Number?

No, a Notary Public does not inspect the vehicle or verify its VIN. The notary’s role is strictly limited to identifying the signer and witnessing the act of signing the title document. The DMV is the agency responsible for all vehicle-specific verifications, including matching the VIN on the title to the VIN on the car itself during registration or inspection.

Does a Bill of Sale Need to Be Notarized Along with the Title?

Generally, a Bill of Sale does not need to be notarized, even in states where the title itself requires it. A Bill of Sale is a supporting document that acts as a receipt for the transaction. While some states require it to be witnessed, notarization is typically optional unless it’s being used as a primary proof of ownership in a complex situation, like applying for a bonded title.

Is It Required to Have the Odometer Statement Notarized?

In some states, the separate federal Odometer Disclosure Statement must also be notarized, but this is less common than title notarization. This is usually required when you are attesting to the accuracy of the mileage reading under oath (a Jurat). Check your state’s specific requirements, as odometer fraud is a serious offense.

Key Takeaways: Vehicle Title Notarization Summary

• Notarization is State-Specific, Not Universal: The requirement to notarize a car title depends entirely on the laws of the state where the vehicle is titled, with roughly 40 states waiving the requirement and a few key states like North Carolina, Ohio, and Arizona still mandating it.
• Compliance is Critical for Registration: Failing to secure required notarization results in a “defective title,” preventing the buyer from legally registering the vehicle and leaving the seller exposed to potential liability for the vehicle post-sale.
• The Notary’s Role is Identity Verification: The Notary Public acts as an impartial witness, legally verifying the identity of the person signing the title, which establishes the necessary legal owner verification and helps prevent title fraud during the transfer of ownership.
• Prepare the Correct Documents Beforehand: Always bring the unsigned Certificate of Title and current, valid government-issued photo identification for all parties required to sign before the notary (usually only the seller).
• Legal Requirements Are Subject to Change: Pay close attention to effective dates of legislation, such as Montana’s HB165, which is set to eliminate the notarization requirement on October 1, 2025, demonstrating the need for up-to-date legal information.
• Out-of-State Transfers Follow the Receiving State’s Law: When registering a vehicle from another state, the notary requirement is governed by the state where the buyer will be registering the vehicle, not the state of origin.
• Remote Notarization is Not Widely Accepted: While legal in many jurisdictions, Remote Online Notarization (RON) is rarely accepted by DMVs for vehicle title transfers due to strict protocols regarding the physical handling and submission of the title document.

Final Thoughts on Car Title Notarization

Understanding whether a car title needs to be notarized boils down to one essential step: checking your local state statute. As demonstrated in this comprehensive guide, the process is far from standardized, requiring specific attention to the state of title and the complexity of the transaction. The core value of notarization, where required, is legal proof and the prevention of fraudulent transfer, providing the buyer with a clean chain of custody and protecting the seller from future liability.

By confirming the requirements in your specific state using the guidance provided, preparing the necessary identification and documents, and executing the signing in the presence of a Notary Public, you ensure the swift and legal transfer of ownership. Compliance with these detailed, location-specific legal procedures is not just a bureaucratic hurdle—it is an absolute necessity for achieving a hassle-free title transfer. Don’t risk the complications of a defective title; use this information to finalize your vehicle sale or purchase with complete confidence.