When it comes to notarizing important documents, the process is usually quick—but only if you’re fully prepared. Showing up without the right items can lead to delays, rescheduling, or even outright refusal of service. So how do you make sure you’re ready?
This blog provides a simple, comprehensive checklist of what to bring to your notary appointment. Whether you’re notarizing a power of attorney, real estate deed, or a travel consent form, following these steps will ensure everything goes smoothly.
1. Your Document—Completely Filled Out (But Unsigned)
Bring the full, completed document that needs to be notarized. Make sure:
- All required fields are filled out
- All pages are present (notaries won’t notarize partial documents)
- The document is printed clearly and legibly
Important: Do not sign the document ahead of time. You must sign it in front of the notary, or they will not be able to proceed.
2. Valid Government-Issued Photo ID
In California, you must present a valid ID so the notary can verify your identity. The ID must:
- Be current or issued within the last five years
- Include your photo
- Include your signature
- Include a physical description
Accepted forms of ID include:
- California driver’s license or ID card
- U.S. passport
- U.S. military ID
- Driver’s license from another U.S. state
- Permanent resident (green) card
Expired, damaged, or unofficial IDs may result in a refused notarization.
3. Any Required Witnesses (If Applicable)
Some documents require the presence of witnesses in addition to a notary. These witnesses:
- Must not be parties to the transaction
- Must have valid ID
- Must sign in the notary’s presence
It is your responsibility to bring the correct number of witnesses unless the notary service offers witness assistance (which should be confirmed in advance).
4. Payment
Notary services typically charge per signature, and prices may vary depending on the type of document and whether you’re using mobile services. Be sure to:
- Ask about pricing ahead of time
- Bring the correct form of payment (cash, card, check, etc.)
- Clarify whether multiple documents or signers will result in additional fees
Some locations may also charge a travel fee for mobile notarizations.
5. Any Notary-Specific Forms
Occasionally, the requesting agency may require you to use a specific notarial certificate (like a jurat or acknowledgment form). If provided, bring it with you.
However, in most cases, the notary will supply the correct notarial wording and attach it to your document based on the type of notarization required.
6. Clear Instructions from the Requesting Party
If the document was given to you by an attorney, title company, government agency, or employer, make sure you understand:
- Whether a jurat or acknowledgment is required
- If witnesses are needed
- Whether you need multiple copies notarized
If you’re unsure, contact the document issuer before the appointment—notaries are not allowed to give legal advice.
7. Additional Copies (Optional)
If you need extra copies of your notarized document, bring them with you. Notaries can only notarize original signatures, not photocopies of previously signed documents. However, they can notarize multiple copies of the same form as long as each one is signed in person.
Bonus Tip: Double-Check Before You Go
Before heading out, do a quick check:
- ✅ Document filled out and unsigned
- ✅ Valid ID
- ✅ Witnesses (if needed)
- ✅ Form of payment
- ✅ Any extra paperwork or copies
Showing up organized helps speed up the process and ensures the notary can complete your request without issue.
Notary Services Made Easy in Newport Beach
If you want a reliable, hassle-free experience, notary newport beach services at Newport Beach Mailboxes & More provide professional, walk-in notarization for all your personal, legal, or business documents. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through the process and help ensure your appointment is fast and efficient.
They also offer mobile notary services upon request, making notarization convenient no matter your situation.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a notary appointment doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right documents, ID, and a few minutes of planning, you’ll walk out with notarized paperwork and total peace of mind.
In our final blog in this series, we’ll explore the crucial role notaries play in preventing fraud and protecting the integrity of signed documents.
