Yes, many UPS stores offer notary services, but availability varies by location

Most UPS stores in the United States have at least one notary public on staff during business hours. However, not every UPS location offers this service—it depends on whether the store employs a notary and whether that person is working that day. Before you go, call the specific store to confirm they have a notary available and ask about their hours, because a notary may work only certain shifts or days.

UPS stores are franchises, which means each location operates independently. This is why the same service may be available at one UPS store and not at another across town. The company does not maintain a central list of which stores have notaries, so you cannot check online—you have to contact the store directly.

Key Takeaways

  • Call ahead to the specific UPS store location you plan to visit, because notary availability is not may provide and varies by franchise.
  • UPS notaries typically charge between $5 and $15 per signature, though prices vary by location and state law.
  • Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, because notaries are required by law to verify your identity before notarizing any document.
  • The notary must watch you sign the document in person—they cannot notarize a document you signed before arriving at the store.

What to bring when you visit a UPS store notary

Bring the unsigned document you need notarized and a valid government-issued photo ID. The notary will ask to see your ID to confirm your identity—this is a legal requirement, not optional. Acceptable IDs include a driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID card.

Do not sign the document before you arrive. The notary must watch you sign it in their presence. If you have already signed it, most notaries will refuse to notarize it, and you will need to get a fresh copy and return.

If you are unsure whether your document needs to be notarized, bring it with you and ask the notary. They can tell you whether notarization is required and what type of notarization the document needs.

How much UPS notary services cost

Most UPS stores charge between $5 and $15 per signature for notary services. The exact price depends on the individual franchise and your state's regulations. Some states set a maximum fee that notaries can charge, while others allow the notary to set their own price within reason.

Call ahead and ask about the cost before you go. Some UPS locations may charge more if the document is complex or requires multiple signatures. A few stores offer notary services free to customers who are also using other UPS services, though this is not standard.

When UPS notaries are available

UPS stores are typically open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday hours vary by location. However, the notary on staff may not work all those hours. Some notaries work only mornings, afternoons, or specific days of the week.

Call the store and ask what time the notary is available. If you need notary services on a weekend or evening, ask whether the store has a notary working those hours—many do not. If the store is closed or the notary is not available, you can search for other notaries in your area through your bank, local courthouse, or a notary search website.

What happens during the notarization process

When you arrive, tell the notary what document you need notarized. They will ask you to show your ID and will verify that the name on your ID matches the name on the document. They will then ask you to sign the document in front of them while they watch.

After you sign, the notary will sign and stamp the document with their official notary seal. This seal proves that a notary public witnessed your signature and verified your identity. The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per signature.

Keep the notarized document in a safe place. Some organizations require the original notarized document, not a copy, so do not lose it. If you need multiple copies, ask the notary whether you can make copies after notarization or whether you need to have each copy notarized separately.

Alternatives if your local UPS store does not have a notary

If the UPS store near you does not offer notary services, you have several other options. Banks often have notaries on staff for customers, sometimes free of charge. Call your bank and ask whether they offer notary services and whether you need to be a customer to use them.

Your county courthouse or clerk's office usually has notaries available, often for a small fee or free. Some public libraries also have notaries on staff. You can search for notaries in your area through the National Notary Association website or by calling your local courthouse to ask for referrals.

If you need notarization urgently and cannot reach a notary by phone, some online notary services allow you to have a document notarized via video call. These services are legal in most states, though a few states still require in-person notarization for certain document types.

Documents that commonly need notarization

Power of attorney forms, affidavits, and real estate documents almost always require notarization. Bank documents, loan applications, and adoption papers often need notarization as well. Some states require notarization for vehicle title transfers or marriage license applications.

If you are unsure whether your document needs notarization, check the document itself—it usually says "notary public" or "notarize" somewhere on the page. You can also call the organization that requested the document and ask whether notarization is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a notary notarize a document that is already signed?

No. A notary must watch you sign the document in their presence. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it. You will need to get a blank copy of the document and sign it in front of the notary.

What if I do not have a photo ID?

The notary cannot notarize the document without verifying your identity with a government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one, you will need to get a state ID, passport, or military ID before the notary can help you. Some notaries may accept other forms of ID in rare cases—call ahead and ask.

Can someone else sign the document on my behalf?

No. The person whose signature is being notarized must be present and must sign the document in front of the notary. The notary is verifying that you are who you say you are and that you signed the document willingly.

How long does notarization take?

Most notarizations take 5 to 10 minutes per signature. If the document has multiple signatures or is complex, it may take longer. Call the UPS store ahead of time if you have a large stack of documents to notarize, so the notary can set aside enough time.

Do I need an appointment for notary services at UPS?

Most UPS stores do not require appointments for notary services and handle them on a walk-in basis. However, if you have multiple documents or a complex situation, calling ahead to schedule a time can help may support the notary is available and has enough time for you.