You cannot notarize a document yourself, but you have faster options than you might think

A notarized document requires a third party — someone licensed by your state — to witness your signature and verify your identity. You cannot perform this act yourself, and no workaround lets you skip it. But if you cannot find a notary, you have several real paths forward: mobile notaries who come to you, banks and credit unions that offer it free to members, UPS and FedEx locations that provide the service, and online notaries who work by video for certain document types.

The fastest option depends on what you are notarizing and how soon you need it done. A same-day mobile notary costs more but arrives at your home or workplace. A bank notary is free but only works during business hours and only if you hold an account there. Online notaries work evenings and weekends but only for documents that do not require a physical original — like powers of attorney or affidavits — not for deeds or titles that must be filed with a government office.

Key Takeaways

  • Mobile notaries travel to your location and typically charge $50 to $150 per document, with same-day service available in most areas.
  • Your bank or credit union may notarize documents free for account holders during regular business hours.
  • UPS Store and FedEx Office locations offer notary services at rates between $10 and $25 per signature, though availability varies by location.
  • Online notaries work by video for documents that do not require a physical original, usually within 24 hours, and cost $25 to $75.
  • Always confirm the notary is licensed in your state and that the document type can be notarized before you book or travel.

Mobile notaries: same-day service at your location

A mobile notary comes to your home, office, or another location you choose and notarizes the document on the spot. Search "mobile notary near me" or check apps like Notarize, Notary Cafe, or your state's notary association website to find licensed notaries in your area. Most charge a travel fee ($25 to $50) plus a per-document fee ($25 to $100), though rates vary by region and document complexity.

Call or message the notary to confirm they are licensed in your state, that they can notarize your specific document type, and what time they can arrive. Bring a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and the unsigned document. The notary will watch you sign, verify your identity, and add their seal and signature. The whole process takes 10 to 15 minutes. Same-day service is usually available if you book before noon, though weekend and evening appointments may cost extra.

Your bank or credit union: free notarization for members

Most banks and credit unions offer notary services free to account holders. Call your branch or visit in person during business hours and ask if a notary is available. Some branches have a notary on staff; others can schedule you with one. You will need your account card or ID and the unsigned document.

This option is free and reliable, but it only works during business hours and only if you have an account at that institution. Not all branches have a notary available, so call ahead rather than showing up unannounced. If your bank does not offer the service, ask if they can refer you to a local notary or if a nearby branch has one available.

UPS Store and FedEx Office: walk-in notary services

Most UPS Store and FedEx Office locations have a notary on staff or can refer you to one nearby. Rates are typically $10 to $25 per signature, though some locations charge differently. Walk in during business hours with your valid ID and unsigned document, or call ahead to confirm a notary is available and to ask about the fee.

This works well if you need notarization quickly and a location is near you, but availability varies. Some stores have a notary only on certain days or times, and some do not offer the service at all. Always call first to avoid a wasted trip. The notary will verify your identity, watch you sign, and add their seal.

Online notaries: video-based notarization for may be able to access documents

Online notaries conduct the notarization by video call, which means you never leave home and can often book an appointment in the evening or on weekends. Services like Notarize, NotaryClick, and Notary.com connect you with a licensed notary who will verify your identity through your camera, watch you sign the document on screen, and email you the notarized copy.

Online notarization works only for documents that do not require a physical original to be filed — such as powers of attorney, affidavits, statutory declarations, and some loan documents. It does not work for deeds, titles, or other documents that must be submitted to a government office in original form with the notary's seal. Costs range from $25 to $75 per document, and turnaround is usually 24 hours or less. You will need a valid ID, a clear photo or scan of the document, and a device with a camera and internet connection.

What to bring and what to expect at any notarization

Bring a valid government-issued ID: a driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID. The notary must verify your identity before they will notarize anything. Bring the unsigned document — the notary cannot notarize a document you have already signed. If you have signed it, the notary will refuse and you will need a fresh copy.

The notary will ask you to state your name, confirm you are signing of your own free will, and watch you sign in front of them. They will then add their official seal, signature, and the date. The whole process takes 5 to 15 minutes. Some notaries will notarize multiple pages or multiple documents in one visit; ask about the fee structure before you start. Keep the notarized document in a safe place — you may need it for a bank, court, or government office.

When a document cannot be notarized

Not every document can be notarized. A notary can only notarize a signature they witness in person (or by video, for online notaries). They cannot notarize a document you signed weeks ago, and they cannot notarize a blank document or one you plan to sign later. If you need a signature notarized, the notary must see you sign it.

Some documents — like wills in certain states — have special rules about who can notarize them or how many notaries must be present. If you are unsure whether your document can be notarized, ask the person or organization requesting the notarization. They can tell you exactly what they need and whether a notary is the right solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I 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, you will need a fresh unsigned copy. The notary cannot add their seal to a document with a signature they did not witness.

What if I do not have a government-issued ID?

You cannot be notarized without one. A notary must verify your identity using an official ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain one before the notarization can happen. Contact your state's DMV or passport office to learn how.

How long does a notarized document stay valid?

A notarized signature does not expire. Once notarized, the document remains notarized. However, the organization requesting the notarization may have its own rules — some banks or government offices will not accept a notarization older than a certain number of months. Ask the person requesting it what their time limit is.

Can I notarize a document by mail?

No. A notary must see you sign the document in person or by video (for online notaries). Mailing a document to a notary and having them notarize it without witnessing your signature is not legal and will not be accepted.

What is the difference between a notary and a lawyer?

A notary witnesses your signature and verifies your identity. A lawyer provides legal information and can draft documents. You do not need a lawyer to notarize a document — a notary is enough. But if you are unsure whether a document is correct or what it means, a lawyer can help with that part.