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Notarization & Title Requirements Checker
Select your state and document type to instantly see what is required - notarization, witnesses, title transfer, odometer disclosure, and more.
Select a state and document type above to see the requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a notary for a bill of sale?
It depends on your state. Most states do not require notarization for a bill of sale - but some do. Arizona, Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, and West Virginia require notarization for vehicle bills of sale. A few other states require it for specific document types. Use the checker above to look up your exact state and document type.
What states require witnesses on a bill of sale?
Witness requirements vary by state and document type. Some states require one or two witnesses to sign alongside the buyer and seller. The tool above shows the exact number of witnesses required for your state and document type combination.
Is an odometer disclosure always required?
No, but it is required for most vehicle and motorcycle sales. Federal law requires odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 20 model years old. Boats, trailers, and personal property do not require odometer disclosure.
Do I need to transfer the title when I sell a vehicle?
In most states, yes. Title transfer is legally required for vehicles, motorcycles, and boats in most jurisdictions. The title must typically be transferred within a certain number of days after the sale - this varies by state.
What states require an FFL dealer for a firearm sale?
Many states require all private firearm transfers to go through a licensed FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer for a background check. These include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Washington DC.
Does a Vehicle Power of Attorney need to be notarized?
Yes, in most states a Vehicle Power of Attorney requires notarization because it authorizes someone to act on your behalf for a vehicle title transfer at the DMV. The exact requirements vary - use the checker above to look up your state.
What is the difference between notarization and witnesses?
A notary is a licensed official who verifies your identity and witnesses your signature, then stamps and signs the document. A witness is simply another adult who watches you sign - no special license required. Some states require one, the other, or both.
Can I use this tool to generate my bill of sale?
This tool is a free reference checker to look up your state's requirements. To generate a completed, ready-to-sign PDF bill of sale with all your details filled in, use our document generator - $5 per document.
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