How to Notarize a Document at a Local Notary
Created by Cheli
Step-by-step practical guide to getting your document properly notarized at a local notary public
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Checklist Items (25)
Prepare Document for Notarization
Ensure your document is complete and ready for notarization. Do not sign it before meeting the notary.
Complete all document content
Fill in all information on the document except for the signature and date fields. The notary must witness you sign.
Leave signature area blank
Do not sign the document before seeing the notary. Signing prematurely may invalidate the notarization and require a new document.
Check for notary acknowledgment language
Some documents have built-in notary acknowledgment language. If not, you may need to attach a separate acknowledgment form.
Gather Required Identification
Bring valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID to prove your identity to the notary.
Ensure ID matches document name
The name on your ID must exactly match the name on the document you are notarizing. Update ID or document if names differ.
Bring backup ID if needed
Some states require secondary ID if your primary ID is questionable. Call ahead to confirm specific state requirements.
Locate a Licensed Notary
Find an authorized notary public in your area. Many locations offer notary services including banks, shipping stores, and government offices.
Check your bank or credit union
Many financial institutions offer free or low-cost notarization for customers. Call to confirm availability and any account requirements.
Contact county clerk office
Local government offices often provide notary services, sometimes at lower cost or free. Check your county website for details.
Consider mobile notary services
If you cannot travel, a mobile notary can come to your location for an additional travel fee, typically $25-75 extra.
Contact Notary Before Visiting
Call ahead to confirm availability, hours, and fees to avoid wasted trips.
Call to confirm availability
Notaries may have limited hours or require appointments. Call ahead to verify they can serve you when you arrive.
Ask about notarization fees
Fees vary by state and notary. Typical range is $5-15 per signature. Some notaries charge more for complex documents.
Confirm accepted payment methods
Many notaries accept cash or check only. Credit cards may not be accepted or may incur additional processing fees.
Ask about document-specific requirements
Some documents require specific notarization types (acknowledgment vs. jurat). Confirm the notary can handle your document type.
Attend Notarization Appointment
Meet with the notary to complete the formal signing and notarization process.
Arrive prepared with all materials
Bring your ID, unsigned document, and payment. Arrive a few minutes early to allow time for verification.
Present valid photo ID
Hand your ID to the notary. They will verify your identity visually by comparing your appearance to the photo on the ID.
Sign document in notary's presence
The notary will watch you sign the document. Do not sign beforehand. Use the exact same name as shown on your ID.
Complete notary jurat if required
For a jurat notarization, you may need to swear or affirm under oath that the contents are true. Follow the notary's instructions carefully.
Pay the notarization fee
Pay the agreed-upon fee. Have exact cash ready or your checkbook if they don't accept cards. Ask for a receipt if needed.
Receive notarized document
The notary will affix their official seal, stamp, and signature to complete the notarization. Verify it looks correct before leaving.
Verify and Store Notarized Document
Review the completed notarization and keep proper records for your files.
Review notarization for completeness
Check that the notary seal is legible, date is correct, and all required signatures are present on the document.
Make copies for your records
Photocopy the notarized document before distributing. Keep copies in a safe location in case originals are lost.
Distribute to intended recipients
Send the original notarized document to whoever requires it such as courts, banks, title companies, or government agencies.