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

Most banks offer notary services to account holders at no cost, and many do it for non-customers too — usually for a small fee. Call the branch nearest you and ask if a notary is available that day. If your bank doesn't have one or you're in a hurry, your state maintains a public directory of commissioned notaries, searchable by county or zip code. You can also try a UPS Store, FedEx Office, or your local courthouse, though availability varies by location.

The state notary directory is the most reliable source because it lists every active notary in your area, including their hours and contact information. You'll find it on your state's Secretary of State website — search "[your state] notary public directory" or "[your state] notary search." Some states let you search by name, county, or zip code. A few states charge a small fee to access the full directory, but most are free.

Key Takeaways

  • Your bank is often the fastest option if you have an account there, and many offer notary services free or for a small fee.
  • Your state's Secretary of State website maintains a searchable directory of all commissioned notaries, organized by county or zip code.
  • UPS Store, FedEx Office, and some pharmacies offer notary services, but hours and availability vary by location.
  • Call ahead before you go — notaries may be busy, out to lunch, or unavailable on certain days.
  • Bring a valid photo ID and know what document needs to be notarized before you arrive.

How to search your state's notary directory

Go to your state's Secretary of State website and look for a link labeled "notary public search," "notary directory," or "find a notary." The exact name and location of the search tool varies by state. Some states put it on the main page; others bury it under a "services" or "licensing" tab.

Once you find the search tool, you can usually filter by county, city, or zip code. Enter your location and the system will return a list of notaries in your area with their phone numbers, addresses, and sometimes their hours. Some directories also show whether a notary is mobile — meaning they will travel to you — or whether they work from a fixed office.

If your state's website is hard to navigate, call your county clerk's office. They can tell you which notaries are active in your area and may even have a printed list on hand.

Banks, credit unions, and retail locations that offer notary services

Banks are your best bet if you need a notary quickly. Most major banks — including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and regional banks — offer notary services to customers for free. Non-customers usually pay between $5 and $15 per signature. Call your branch to confirm a notary is available before you go, because they may be busy or out of the office.

Credit unions often offer the same service. If you belong to a credit union, call ahead and ask. UPS Store and FedEx Office locations in many areas have notaries on staff, though not all do. Availability is inconsistent, so call first. Some Walgreens and CVS pharmacies also have notaries, but this is less common and varies by location.

Retail notary services usually cost $5 to $10 per signature. Hours are often longer than banks — many UPS and FedEx locations stay open into the evening and on weekends — which can be helpful if you need a notary outside normal business hours.

What to bring when you visit a notary

Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must verify your identity before notarizing any document. Bring the original document that needs to be notarized, not a copy. The notary will examine it, watch you sign it (if it isn't already signed), and then add their seal and signature.

Know what you're having notarized before you arrive. Some documents have specific notarization requirements — for example, a power of attorney may need to be notarized in front of a witness, or a real estate document may require an oath. If you're unsure, call the notary ahead of time and describe the document. They can tell you whether they can notarize it and what you'll need to bring.

Bring cash or a card, depending on what the notary accepts. Most accept both, but some smaller offices or mobile notaries may take cash only.

Mobile notaries and notaries who come to you

If you can't leave home or the office, a mobile notary will come to you. Many notaries in your state directory are listed as mobile — check the directory entry or call and ask. Mobile notaries typically charge more than office-based notaries, usually $25 to $75 per signature depending on how far they have to travel and how many documents you need notarized.

To find a mobile notary, search your state directory and filter for notaries in your area, then call and ask if they travel. You can also search "mobile notary near me" in Google Maps, though verify that the notary is currently commissioned by checking your state directory afterward.

Mobile notaries usually require at least a day's notice and may have a minimum travel fee if you're far from their office. Confirm the fee and any travel charges before they come to you.

What to expect when you get a document notarized

The notary will ask to see your ID and will compare your face to the photo. They will read the document to make sure it's the one you want notarized and that it makes sense — for example, that the signature line is blank if you haven't signed yet. They will watch you sign the document in front of them. You cannot sign it beforehand and then have them notarize it; the notary must witness your signature.

Once you've signed, the notary will add their official seal (a stamp or embosser), sign the document themselves, and write the date and their notary number. This process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per document. If you have multiple documents, it may take longer.

The notary will keep a record of the notarization in their journal — a log required by law. This is for their protection and yours. Once the notary has finished, the document is ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a notary cost?

Banks charge nothing for account holders and $5 to $15 for non-customers. UPS Store, FedEx Office, and independent notaries typically charge $5 to $10 per signature. Mobile notaries charge $25 to $75 depending on distance and the number of documents. Some notaries charge a flat fee per visit rather than per signature.

Can I get a document notarized on the same day?

Yes, if you find an available notary. Call your bank first — they often have same-day availability. If not, search your state directory and call notaries in your area to see who is available. UPS Store and FedEx Office locations often have shorter wait times than banks during busy hours.

What if I can't find a notary in my state directory?

The directory may be out of date or the notary may have let their commission expire. Try calling your county clerk's office — they maintain their own list and can recommend active notaries. You can also search Google Maps for "notary public near me" and call locations to confirm they're currently commissioned.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Most banks and retail locations accept walk-ins, but you may wait. Calling ahead is faster — you can confirm a notary is available and sometimes reserve a time slot. Mobile notaries always require an appointment, usually at least a day in advance.

Can a notary refuse to notarize a document?

Yes. A notary can refuse if they don't understand the document, if they suspect fraud, if you can't prove your identity, or if the document is outside their authority. Some notaries also refuse certain types of documents like real estate deeds or powers of attorney. Ask the notary about their restrictions before you arrive.