When you're preparing for a notarization, double-check that you have all essential items for the process to go smoothly. Here is what you'll need to bring with you when getting something notarized:
✔️ The completed document you wish to notarize
✔️Valid photo ID that meets state requirements
✔️Any other individuals (with proper ID) who will be signing the document
✔️Payment for notarial services
Know what type of notarization you need
If you're not sure what kind of notarization you need, contact the document drafter or receiving agency to confirm what notarial act they require before you visit the Notary. If in doubt, you may contact a lawyer for guidance.
Make sure the document is complete
Generally, a document must be 100% complete for a Notary to perform a notarization. Make sure there aren't any blank spaces on your document before you meet with a Notary because that could make the document more susceptible to fraud.
Bring acceptable identification
Bring a valid government issued ID.
See the FAQ section to find acceptable ID forms
Ensure the name on your ID matches the name on your document
If you've recently changed your legal name due to marriage, divorce or other reasons, be sure that the ID you bring to the notarization matches your name shown on the document.
Have all signers present for the notarization
A signer must meet face-to-face with a Notary in order to have their signature notarized in California
Be aware and willing to sign
Notary will check that you are mentally aware and alert at the time of the notarization, and that you are signing the document voluntarily and not under duress.
While this is essential for persons of all ages, it is particularly important for the elderly or infirm. If you do not understand the details of your transaction, or you aren't sure you want to sign the paper in front of you, take steps to address these issues before going to a Notary appointment
FAQ
What are the acceptable identification forms in California?
California Driver’s License or ID Card issued in the past five years
Driver’s License or ID Card issued by another US state in the past five years
Driver's license issued by Mexico or Canada
Valid & signed U.S. Passport or Foreign Passport Stamped by U.S. Customs
US Military ID that contains all required elements ( Photograph, signature, serial number, physical description of the signer)
Employee ID from an agency or California State office, or by any agency or office of a city or county in California
Tribal ID card issued by federally recognized tribal government
What ID forms are not accepted in California?
Social Security Cards
Credit Cards
Temporary Driver’s License
Licenses and driver’s licenses without photographs
What happens if my ID doesn't match the name on documents ?
If you've recently changed your legal name due to marriage, divorce or other reasons, be sure that the ID you bring to the notarization matches your name shown on the document.
If there's a significant discrepancy — for example, your married name appearing on the document is "Mary Smith-Williams" but your ID contains your maiden name of "Mary Smith" — then the Notary will not be able to proceed with the notarization unless you can provide an alternate form of acceptable identification that matches the name on the document.
I don’t have an acceptable ID. Can I still have a document notarized?
You will need TWO CREDIBLE WITNESSES - that can swear to the signer's identity. They must have proper ID: be over 18 years; know the signer by the name on the document; not be named on the document nor have a financial or beneficial interest in the document being signed.
Can Any Document Be Notarized?
Virtually any document can be notarized. However, exceptions are vital records such as a birth, marriage and death certificates. Notaries can't make or certify copies of these records. You must go to the government agency that issued the certificate to get copies.
I was sent a document from out of state. Can this document be notarized by a California notary?
Yes. California notaries can notarize document originating from other states. However, the notarization act must take place in the State of California.
What is a Jurat ?
A Jurat Certificate is used when you take an oath or affirmation swearing the contents of the document are true. The Notary Public will confirm your identity and have you sign the document in their presence.
What is an Acknowledgement?
An Acknowledgment Certificate is used when your signature needs to be acknowledged. The Notary Public will confirm your identity, as well as confirm you are willingly signing the document and aware of what you have signed.
Do you have any other questions?
Email JE Notary at JEnotary.ca@gmail.com
