The three things a notary will ask for before they stamp your document
A notary needs three things before they will notarize your document: a valid photo ID, the document itself, and your physical presence. You must be there in person—notaries cannot notarize documents remotely or by mail in most states. The notary will check your ID to confirm you are who you say you are, watch you sign the document in front of them, and then add their official stamp and signature.
The specific ID types accepted vary slightly by state, but a driver's license, passport, or state ID card will work almost everywhere. Some notaries will accept a military ID or tribal ID. The ID must not be expired, though some states allow notaries to accept an ID that expired within the last year—ask when you call to schedule.
Bring the unsigned document. Do not sign it before you arrive. The notary must watch you sign it, and some documents require you to sign in front of the notary even if you have already signed copies elsewhere.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a valid photo ID that matches the name on the document you are having notarized.
- The document itself must be unsigned when you arrive, because the notary must watch you sign it.
- You must be physically present—notaries in most states cannot notarize documents by mail or video call.
- Some documents require additional paperwork, such as a deed or power of attorney form, so check with the notary ahead of time about what to bring.
- The notary will charge a fee, which varies by state and by notary, so ask the cost when you call to schedule.
What happens if your ID is expired or does not match the document
If your ID is expired, call the notary before you go. Some states allow notaries to accept an ID that expired within the last year, but others do not. If your state does not allow it, you will need to renew your ID first. This can take weeks depending on your state's DMV processing time.
If the name on your ID does not match the name on the document—for example, if you changed your name after marriage or divorce—bring a second document that shows both names. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order changing your name will work. The notary needs to see the connection between your current legal name and the name on the document you are signing.
Documents that need extra paperwork beyond your ID
Some documents require you to bring more than just your ID and the document itself. A power of attorney, deed, or affidavit may come with a separate notarization form or may require the notary to ask you specific questions and record your answers.
If you are notarizing a power of attorney, bring the original document and any instructions from the person who created it. Some states require the notary to ask you whether you understand what you are signing and whether anyone forced you to sign it. The notary will write down your answers.
If you are notarizing a deed or other real estate document, check with your county recorder's office or the title company handling the transaction. They may require the notary to use a specific notarization form or to include certain language on the document. Call the notary ahead of time and ask whether they have notarized this type of document before.
How to find a notary and what to expect at the appointment
Notaries work at banks, law offices, UPS stores, FedEx locations, and some pharmacies. Many also work independently and advertise online. Search "notary public near me" to find options in your area, or call your bank—most banks offer notary services free to customers.
When you call to schedule, tell the notary what document you need notarized. Ask whether they have notarized that type of document before, what the fee is, and whether you need to bring anything beyond your ID and the document. Some notaries ask you to arrive a few minutes early to fill out a logbook entry.
At the appointment, the notary will ask you to state your name and confirm that you are signing the document of your own free will. They will watch you sign, then add their official seal and signature. The whole process usually takes five to ten minutes. The notary will keep a record of the notarization in their logbook, which is required by law.
Fees and what they cover
Notary fees vary by state and by notary. Banks often notarize documents free for customers. Independent notaries and notaries at retail locations typically charge between $5 and $15 per signature. Some charge a flat fee per document instead of per signature, and some charge more for documents that require extra work, such as a power of attorney or deed.
The fee covers the notary's time and the official seal. It does not cover legal information. If you have questions about whether a document is correct or what it means, the notary cannot answer those questions. You would need to speak with a lawyer.
What you do not need to bring
You do not need to bring a witness. Notarization is not the same as having a document witnessed. A notary is a neutral third party who confirms your identity and watches you sign; they are not a witness in the legal sense.
You do not need to bring the original of every document mentioned in the paper you are signing. For example, if you are signing a power of attorney that refers to a bank account, you do not need to bring your bank statements. Bring only the document itself and your ID.
You do not need to have the document notarized before you know what it says. Read it carefully before you go. The notary will not explain what the document means or whether it is a good idea to sign it. If you do not understand it, ask a lawyer before you schedule the notary appointment.
When a notary cannot notarize a document
A notary cannot notarize a document if they have a financial interest in it. For example, a notary cannot notarize a deed if they are buying or selling the property. They also cannot notarize a document if they are a party to it—a notary cannot notarize their own power of attorney or their own will.
A notary cannot notarize a document if you are not physically present. Some states are beginning to allow remote notarization by video call, but this is still uncommon and requires special technology and training. Call ahead and ask whether the notary offers remote notarization.
A notary cannot notarize a blank document or a document with blanks that you plan to fill in later. The document must be complete and ready to sign when you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I notarize a document that I already signed?
In most cases, no. The notary must watch you sign the document. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it. You will need to get a blank copy and sign it in front of the notary. Some exceptions exist for certain documents, so ask the notary when you call.
What if I do not have a photo ID?
You cannot get a document notarized without a valid photo ID. If you do not have one, you will need to get a state ID or driver's license first. Contact your state's DMV to find out how long this takes and what documents you need to bring.
Can someone else sign the document on my behalf?
No. You must sign the document yourself in front of the notary. The only exception is if you are physically unable to sign—for example, if you have a severe disability—and you have a power of attorney or court order authorizing someone else to sign for you. Even then, the notary will need to see that court order or power of attorney.
Do I need to make copies of the notarized document?
That depends on where you are sending it. Some organizations require the original notarized document; others accept copies. Ask the person or organization requesting the notarization whether they need the original or whether a copy is acceptable.
How long does a notarization last?
A notarization does not expire. Once a document is notarized, it remains notarized. However, the organization you are sending it to may have a important date for when they need to receive it, so check their requirements.