Notarize Your Vehicle Bill of Sale or Permission Letter
Thinking of selling your car? Gifting it to a family member? Or maybe letting a friend drive it across the border? No matter the situation, vehicle transfers can feel like a big deal — and for good reason. Getting the paperwork right helps you avoid trouble down the road. When you notarize a vehicle bill of sale, a gift declaration, or a permission letter, you’re protecting yourself and everyone involved. It’s about trust, clarity, and having the right documents in place when they matter most.
What is a vehicle transfer?
A vehicle transfer means you’re passing ownership — or temporary use — of your vehicle to someone else. That could be:
- Selling your used car on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace
- Gifting a vehicle to a family member
- Letting a friend borrow your car for a trip across the U.S. border
No matter how informal it may seem, making it official with a notarized document can save you headaches later.
What is a vehicle bill of sale?
A vehicle bill of sale is a legal document that shows you sold or transferred a vehicle to another person. It typically includes:
- Names and contact info for buyer and seller
- Vehicle details (make, model, year, and VIN)
- Final sale price and date
- Known condition or issues
- Notes like “sold as-is” if that applies
It’s your written proof that ownership changed hands — and it helps with registration, insurance, taxes, and even legal protection if questions come up later.
Gifting a Vehicle to a Family Member
Gifting a vehicle can be a generous and meaningful gesture — but it’s still a legal transfer. A simple document that clearly shows the gift (and the $0 value) can help avoid confusion or tax issues.
Notarizing a gift vehicle to family member form adds that extra bit of confidence, showing both sides agreed and understood what was happening.
Letting a Friend Drive Your Vehicle Across the Border
It’s nice to help out a friend, especially if they need a set of wheels. But if they’re crossing into the U.S. with your vehicle, customs may ask for proof that they have permission.
That’s where a permission letter to take my vehicle across the border comes in. It’s a short document that says they’re allowed to drive your car — and when it’s notarized, it carries a lot more weight with border officials.
In-Person & Hassle Free
We’ve made it easy to get your documents notarised with a local notary — no complicated tech, no video calls, no second-guessing. Here’s how it works:
Download the forms
Head to our site and download the Last Will and Power of Attorney templates or bring your own if you’ve already prepared them.
Book an appointment
Use our directory to find a trusted public notary near you. Pick a convenient date and time that works best for your schedule.
Print Your Documents
Make sure all pages are printed clearly and completely — double-sided printing is fine if everything’s visible.
Bring Your Checklist
Details matter but don’t stress — we’ve laid out everything you’ll need to bring with you in a simple checklist below.
Appointment Checklist
To get your Last Will and Power of Attorney legally notarised, bring the following:
- Two pieces of valid ID (at least one government-issued photo ID)
- Printed documents (Last Will and/or POA)
- A clear understanding of your wishes (your notary may ask for clarification)
- The name and contact info of your chosen executor or attorney(s)
- Any other relevant documents or instructions related to your estate, assets, or healthcare wishes
- Print your receipt (emailed to you after your online purchase)
Tip: If your documents need witnesses in addition to a notary, ask the notary in advance if they can provide them — or bring someone with you who’s not listed in your Will or POA.
Why Notarize Vehicle Transfers?
You don’t have to notarize every vehicle transfer in Ontario, but it’s often a smart step — especially when:
- The sale is private (not through a dealership)
- The vehicle is being exported or crossing borders
- The value of the vehicle is high or the equipment is custom
- You’re dealing with someone you don’t know well
- You want extra peace of mind
- Border officials may question why your friend is driving your vehicle
A notarized document confirms both parties signed it willingly and understood the terms. If anything is ever questioned, you’ve got proof that holds up.
How to Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale or Transfer Letter Notarized
Here’s how to make it official:
1. Fill Out the Right Form
Use a clear and simple version of the document that fits your situation:
- Vehicle Bill of Sale for regular sales
- Gift declaration if you’re gifting it
- Permission letter if someone else is using the vehicle temporarily.
Make sure it includes names, contact info, vehicle details, dates, and signatures.
2. Bring Valid ID
Both parties should bring government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s licence or passport.
3. Meet With a Verified Notary
Find a notary near you in Ontario and sign the document in their presence. The notary will confirm identities, witness the signing, and apply an official seal to make it legally valid.
Real-Life Examples
Here are some everyday situations where notarization made all the difference:
- You’re selling a car to someone from another province. A notarized bill of sale helps smooth the transfer and avoid delays at ServiceOntario.
You’re gifting a vehicle to your daughter. A signed and notarized gift form shows there was no money exchanged — and keeps things clear for taxes.
Your friend’s taking your car to visit family in Michigan. A notarized permission letter makes border crossings simpler and avoids awkward questions.
You’re buying a motorcycle from a stranger on Marketplace. Having the deal notarized gives both of you some security in case things go sideways.