Notary for Vehicle Title Transfer

Transferring a vehicle title in California involves specific paperwork and, in certain situations, notarization. Whether you are selling a car, gifting a vehicle to a family member, or handling a vehicle as part of an estate, understanding the notary requirements helps you avoid delays at the DMV.

When Is Notarization Required for a Vehicle Title Transfer?

California does not require notarization for every vehicle title transfer, but there are important situations where it is needed or strongly recommended:

• Out-of-state titles: If the vehicle was titled in another state, the California DMV may require the signature on the out-of-state title to be notarized.
• Power of attorney: If someone is signing the title transfer on behalf of the owner using a power of attorney, the POA must be notarized.
• Deceased owner transfers: Transferring a vehicle from a deceased person's estate may require notarized affidavits or other supporting documents.
• DMV form REG 227: The Application for Duplicate or Transfer of Title form may require notarization in certain circumstances.
• Lien holder releases: When a lien is being released as part of a title transfer, the lien release may need notarization.
• Fraud prevention: For high-value vehicles or situations where the seller cannot be present at the DMV, notarization of the title provides an extra layer of authentication.

The Vehicle Title Transfer Process

Here is the general process for transferring a vehicle title in California:

1. Complete the title: The seller fills in the buyer's name, date of sale, odometer reading, and sale price on the back of the title certificate.
2. Seller signs the title: The seller signs the title in the designated area.
3. Notarize if required: If notarization is needed, both parties should visit a notary to have the signatures notarized.
4. Complete a bill of sale: While not required by the California DMV, a bill of sale provides additional documentation of the transaction.
5. Submit a smog certificate: Most vehicles need a valid smog certification for transfer (with some exemptions).
6. Visit the DMV: The buyer takes the signed title, smog certificate, and payment for fees to a DMV office to complete the transfer.

Special Situations

Gifting a Vehicle

When gifting a vehicle to a family member, the process is similar to a sale, but you write "gift" or "$0" as the sale price. Notarization is not typically required but may be requested for high-value vehicles or to prevent later disputes about the transfer.

Inherited Vehicles

Transferring a vehicle from a deceased person requires additional paperwork, which may include a notarized Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate (if the estate qualifies), or court documents if the estate goes through probate. A trust certificate may also be required if the vehicle was held in a trust.

Duplicate Titles

If the original title is lost, you will need to apply for a duplicate title from the DMV. The application may require a notarized signature from the registered owner.

Cost of Vehicle Title Notarization

If notarization is required for your title transfer, the fee is straightforward:

• Notary fee: $15 per signature
• Mobile notary travel fee: $25 to $75 if the notary comes to you
• DMV transfer fee: $15 (separate from notary fees)
• Use tax: Based on the purchase price or fair market value of the vehicle

Where to Get Your Title Notarized in LA

For quick and convenient vehicle title notarization, you have several options in Los Angeles. Banks, UPS Stores, and AAA offices may offer notary services. For the most convenience, a mobile notary can meet you and the other party at a neutral location. If you are near the Van Nuys DMV or any other DMV office, there are often notary services in the immediate vicinity.

Find a notary for your vehicle title transfer through our Los Angeles notary directory.