Notarization costs between $5 and $25 per signature in most states, with the exact price set by your state's laws or by the notary themselves

The cost depends on three things: where you live, who notarizes the document, and how many signatures need witnessing. Some states cap what a notary can charge; others let the notary set their own rate. A notary working at a bank or law office may charge nothing if you're a customer or client, while an independent notary or mobile service will charge a flat fee per signature.

If you need the notary to travel to you, expect to pay a travel fee on top of the per-signature cost — usually $25 to $75 depending on distance. Certified copies (where the notary makes and stamps a copy of your document) often cost more than a straightforward signature witnessing.

Key Takeaways

  • Most notaries charge $5 to $15 per signature, though some states allow up to $25.
  • Banks and credit unions often notarize documents free for account holders, so check with your own financial institution first.
  • Mobile notaries who come to your home or office typically charge $25 to $75 for travel, plus the per-signature fee.
  • Certified copies cost more than a straightforward notarized signature and vary widely by state and notary.

What state law allows notaries to charge

Each state sets a maximum fee that notaries can charge. In some states like Florida and Texas, the cap is $10 per signature. In others like California and New York, it's $15. A few states, including Georgia and Louisiana, allow up to $25 per signature. These are the legal ceiling — a notary can charge less, but not more.

If you live in a state with no set maximum, the notary can charge whatever they decide, though most stay in the $10 to $20 range to stay competitive. You can always ask the notary their rate before you hand over your document.

Where to get a document notarized for free or low cost

Banks and credit unions often notarize documents at no charge for customers with accounts. Call your branch and ask if they offer the service — many do, though you may need to make an appointment. Some employers also have notaries on staff or contracts with local notaries who work at a discount for employees.

Public libraries in many cities have notaries available during business hours, sometimes free and sometimes for a small fee ($2 to $5). Your state bar association or secretary of state's office can direct you to a list of notaries in your area, including which ones are least expensive. Legal aid organizations sometimes notarize documents free for low-income people.

Mobile notaries and travel fees

A mobile notary comes to your home, office, or hospital to notarize your document. This costs more than visiting a notary's office because you're paying for their time and travel. Most mobile notaries charge $25 to $75 for travel within a certain radius (often 10 to 20 miles), plus the per-signature fee on top.

If you're far outside their usual service area, the travel fee can be higher or they may decline the job. Mobile notaries are useful when you're homebound, in the hospital, or need the notarization done urgently, but budget for the extra cost. Some mobile notaries also charge a minimum service fee even if you only need one signature.

Certified copies and other add-on costs

A certified copy is a photocopy of your document that the notary stamps and signs to confirm it matches the original. This costs more than a straightforward notarized signature — typically $5 to $15 per copy depending on your state and the notary. Some notaries charge per page instead of per copy, so a 10-page document might cost $10 to $50 just for the copying and certification.

Other add-ons include rush fees (if you need it the same day), multiple copies of the same document, or notarizing documents in a language other than English. Ask the notary upfront what their full fee will be, including any extras, so you're not surprised at the end.

How to find a notary and compare costs

Start by calling your bank or credit union — if they notarize for free and you're a customer, that's your cheapest option. If you need a notary outside business hours or at a specific location, search online for "notary public near me" or check your state's secretary of state website for a directory.

Call three or four notaries and ask their per-signature rate, whether they charge for travel, and whether they offer any discounts (some do for multiple signatures on the same document). If you need a certified copy, ask the cost per page. Once you know the total, you can decide whether to visit a notary's office, use a mobile service, or wait until you can get to your bank.

What affects the final price you pay

The total cost depends on how many signatures need notarizing, whether you need certified copies, whether the notary travels to you, and what state you're in. A single signature at a bank notary costs nothing. The same signature at an independent notary in California costs $15. Add a certified copy and travel, and you could pay $50 to $100 total.

Some notaries offer package deals if you need multiple documents notarized at once — for example, $30 for three signatures instead of $15 each. It's worth asking. If cost is a concern, your bank or library is almost always the cheapest route, even if it means waiting for an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize a document online?

Some states allow remote online notarization, where you video call a notary who witnesses your signature on camera. The cost is usually the same as in-person notarization ($10 to $15 per signature), though some online notaries charge slightly more. Check your state's laws first — not all states permit it yet.

Do I have to pay if the notary makes a mistake?

No. If the notary makes an error, they should correct it or notarize the document again at no extra charge. If they refuse, you can file a complaint with your state's secretary of state office. Keep your receipt in case you need to dispute the charge.

What if I need the document notarized in a different state?

Notarization is valid across state lines, so a notary in one state can notarize a document you'll use in another. The cost follows the state where the notarization happens, not where you'll use the document. If you're moving or traveling, you can use a notary in your current location.

Are there any documents that cost more to notarize?

Most notaries charge the same per signature regardless of document type. However, certified copies, apostilles (a special certification for international use), and documents requiring multiple pages of notarization may cost more. Ask the notary about the specific document before you commit.

Can I negotiate the notary's fee?

In states with a fee cap, no — the notary cannot legally charge more than the maximum. In states without a cap, you can ask if they'll discount the rate, especially if you need multiple signatures or are a repeat customer. Many notaries are willing to negotiate, particularly for larger jobs.