What to Bring to a Notary Appointment: A Complete Checklist
Why Preparation Matters for a Notary Appointment
Notarization Isn’t Just a Stamp
Many people think a notary appointment is as simple as showing up and signing a paper—but there’s a lot more to it. A notary public’s job is to verify your identity, ensure that you’re signing willingly and knowingly, and properly complete the notarial certificate. If you’re unprepared, the process can be delayed, canceled, or even result in a rejected document.
What Happens If You Don’t Bring the Right Things?
Arriving without the proper materials—like ID, the correct form of the document, or required witnesses—could mean wasting your trip. In legal and time-sensitive situations, this could cause major headaches. Whether you're notarizing a power of attorney, real estate form, or travel document, being prepared is crucial.
Common Scenarios That Require Extra Preparation
Medical documents that require a witness
Real estate closings with multiple signers
Forms from financial institutions with strict formatting rules
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to bring and how to avoid last-minute stress.
What to Bring to Your Notary Appointment
1. A Valid, Government-Issued Photo ID
Your ID must be current (or issued within the last 5 years if expired in California) and include your photo, signature, and a physical description. Accepted forms of ID include:
Driver’s license
State ID card
U.S. or foreign passport
Military ID
Inmate ID (if in custody)
2. The Document(s) You Need Notarized
Bring the physical document you need signed. Make sure:
It is fully filled out (except for the signature line)
There are no blank spaces that could be altered later
It’s the correct version and includes all pages
3. Witnesses (if required)
Some documents—like advance healthcare directives or living wills—require one or two witnesses in addition to notarization. If your document needs witnesses, bring them with you, and ensure they also have valid ID.
4. Payment for Notary Services
In California, notaries can charge up to $15 per signature. Be ready to pay with cash, card, Venmo, or other methods accepted by your notary. If you're using a mobile notary, travel fees may apply, so clarify ahead of time.
5. Any Special Instructions or Notary Wording
Some institutions (banks, insurance companies, government offices) require specific notarial language. If your document doesn’t already include it, bring the required verbiage or let the notary know the purpose so they can choose the correct certificate (acknowledgment or jurat).
Extra Tips to Make the Appointment Go Smoothly
Double-Check Everything Before You Go
Review your paperwork for completeness and accuracy. Ensure all names, addresses, and spellings are correct. Many documents become legally binding once notarized—so now’s the time to fix any typos or mistakes.
Don’t Sign the Document Ahead of Time
Never sign your document before meeting the notary. They must witness your signature in person to notarize it. Pre-signed documents may be rejected or require re-doing the entire process.
Communicate With Your Notary
Let your notary know what kind of document you’re bringing and if any special arrangements are needed. This is especially helpful for:
Real estate closings with multiple signers
Documents in other languages
Minors or elderly signers
Mobile or Online Notary? Plan Ahead
If you're using a mobile notary, confirm travel fees, locations, and time windows. For online notarization (if available in your state), make sure you have internet access, video capability, and digital versions of your ID and documents ready.
Quick Pre-Appointment Checklist
✅ Government-issued ID
✅ Unsigned but completed documents
✅ Witnesses with ID (if needed)
✅ Correct notarial wording
✅ Payment method
When you're prepared, a notary appointment is quick and painless. But showing up unprepared? That can lead to delays, frustration, or even legal complications. Spend a few minutes upfront gathering everything you need—and save yourself a lot of trouble down the road.
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