The fastest way to find a notary is to call your bank or check your state's notary directory

Most banks offer notary services free to customers during business hours, even if you don't have an appointment. Call ahead to confirm a notary is available and ask whether you need to bring anything besides the document. Many banks keep a notary on staff or can direct you to one nearby.

If your bank doesn't have one or you're not a customer, your state's Secretary of State office maintains a searchable list of commissioned notaries. You can find your state's notary directory through the National Notary Association's website, which links to each state's official registry. Search by zip code or city to see notaries in your area, their phone numbers, and sometimes their hours.

A third quick option is to call 211 (a free referral service) and ask for notary services in your area. They can often tell you which locations near you are open today and whether they charge a fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Your bank is usually the fastest and cheapest option—many offer notary services free to customers without an appointment.
  • Your state's Secretary of State office maintains an official directory of commissioned notaries searchable by location.
  • UPS Store, FedEx Office, and Staples locations often have notaries on staff, though fees and availability vary by location.
  • Call ahead before visiting any location to confirm a notary is available and ask what documents you need to bring.
  • Notary fees are set by state law and typically range from a few dollars per signature, though some services charge flat rates.

Where to find a notary in your neighborhood

UPS Store, FedEx Office, and Staples locations frequently employ notaries, and you can often walk in without an appointment. Call the specific location near you first—not all branches have a notary on staff, and hours vary. Fees are usually between $5 and $15 per signature, depending on your state and the location.

Law offices, real estate agencies, and title companies also employ notaries and may serve the public for a fee. A quick phone call to a local real estate office or title company can tell you whether they're open to walk-ins and what they charge. Some will notarize a single document for $10 to $20.

Libraries in some states offer notary services free or for a small fee. Call your local library branch to ask whether they have a notary and what their hours are. This option is less common than it once was, but worth checking if you live near a public library.

Using online directories to search by location

The National Notary Association's "Find a Notary" tool lets you enter your zip code and see commissioned notaries nearby, along with their phone numbers and sometimes their hours. Not every notary registers with this service, so it's not exhaustive, but it's a good starting point.

Your state's Secretary of State website has an official notary search tool. The exact name and location of this tool varies by state—some call it a "notary directory," others a "notary registry"—but it's always free and searchable by county or zip code. A web search for "[your state] notary directory" will take you to the right page.

Google Maps is also useful: search "notary near me" or "notary [your city]" and you'll see results with phone numbers, hours, and customer reviews. This method shows you what's actually open right now, though the listings may include businesses that don't regularly serve walk-ins.

What to bring and what to expect when you arrive

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will check this to confirm your identity before notarizing anything. Bring the original document you need notarized, not a copy. Some notaries will not notarize copies or documents that have already been signed.

Be ready to sign the document in front of the notary. The notary cannot sign for you or tell you what to sign—they only verify that you are who you say you are and that you're signing of your own free will. If you're unsure what you're signing, ask the notary to explain it, or bring the document to a lawyer first.

Expect the process to take 5 to 15 minutes. The notary will check your ID, watch you sign, and then add their seal and signature to the document. Some notaries charge per signature, so if your document has multiple signature lines, ask the fee upfront.

Understanding notary fees and what your state allows

Notary fees are set by state law, not by individual notaries. Most states cap the fee at $5 to $15 per signature, though some states allow higher fees for travel or special services. Call ahead and ask what the fee is—it should match your state's legal maximum.

Banks often notarize for free if you're a customer. Non-customers may pay a small fee or be turned away. UPS Store and FedEx Office typically charge $5 to $15 per signature. Real estate offices and title companies may charge $10 to $25 depending on the complexity of the document.

If a notary quotes you a fee that seems very high, check your state's notary fee schedule online. You can report a notary who overcharges to your state's Secretary of State office.

What to do if you can't find a notary nearby

If you live in a rural area or a notary isn't available today, some states allow remote notarization—a notary can verify your identity and notarize a document over video call. This is not available in every state, and not every notary offers it. Search "[your state] remote notary" to see whether it's an option where you live.

Some companies offer mobile notary services, where a notary comes to your home or office. This costs more—usually $50 to $150 depending on distance and time—but can be worth it if you have a time-sensitive document or mobility issues. Search "mobile notary [your city]" to find services in your area.

If you're in a real bind, contact your state's Secretary of State office directly. They can tell you whether remote notarization is available in your state and may be able to refer you to a notary who can help quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a notary refuse to notarize a document?

Yes. A notary can refuse if they don't believe you are who you say you are, if you seem confused or pressured, or if the document appears fraudulent. A notary cannot refuse based on the content of the document or their personal beliefs about what you're signing. If a notary refuses, they should explain why.

Do I need an appointment to see a notary at a bank?

Most banks do not require an appointment for notary services, but calling ahead is wise. Some branches are busier than others, and a notary may not always be available. A quick call confirms someone is there and saves you a trip.

What if I need a notary on a weekend or after hours?

Some UPS Store and FedEx Office locations are open on weekends and have notaries on staff. Search online for locations near you and call to confirm hours and availability. Mobile notary services and some remote notaries also work evenings and weekends, though they charge more.

Can I notarize a document I signed before I saw the notary?

No. A notary must watch you sign the document. If you've already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it. You'll need an unsigned copy and will have to sign it in front of the notary.

How do I know if a notary is legitimate?

Check your state's notary directory to confirm the person is commissioned. A legitimate notary will show you their commission certificate and will have a notary seal. If you're unsure, ask for their commission number and verify it on your state's Secretary of State website.