In Ohio, a car title can be notarized by a licensed notary public, a deputy clerk at any County Clerk of Courts title office, and often by licensed employees at a licensed Ohio Deputy Registrar (BMV) office. The key is that the notary must be physically present to witness the signatures of both the seller(s) and the buyer(s) on the title. This requirement is outlined in the Ohio Revised Code to prevent fraud.
For a standard private-party sale, your best and most convenient option is typically a County Clerk of Courts title office. They are experts in the specific requirements for titling and can process the entire transaction on the spot. Many car dealerships also have a notary on staff to handle the paperwork for sales they facilitate.
It's crucial to understand that online notarization is generally not acceptable for an Ohio car title transfer. The Ohio BMV requires the traditional "wet ink" signature witnessed in person. If the seller is out of state, they will need to have their signature notarized according to their own state's laws, and then the buyer can bring that notarized title to an Ohio title office to complete the transfer.
| Acceptable Parties to Notarize an Ohio Car Title | Best For | Important Considerations |
|---|
| County Clerk of Courts Deputy Clerk | All title transfers, especially private sales. | These offices are the authority on titling; they can notarize and process the title simultaneously. |
| Licensed Notary Public | Situations where visiting a title office is difficult. | Confirm the notary is comfortable with vehicle titles. Fees are regulated by the state. |
| Licensed Ohio Deputy Registrar (BMV) | Convenience, as many locations offer this service. | It's best to call your local BMV office ahead to confirm they notarize titles for private sales. |
| Dealership Notary | Purchases made from a licensed dealership. | This service is typically only for sales they are directly involved in. |
Always bring valid government-issued photo identification (like a driver's license or passport) for all parties signing the title. The notary will need to verify your identity before proceeding.
