Top 10 Most Common Questions About Notaries Answered
Here are the 10 questions people ask most about notaries, with straight answers.
1. What is a notary public?
A notary public is a state-appointed official who serves as an impartial witness when people sign important documents. They verify identity, confirm the signer is acting willingly, and keep a record of the transaction. In California, notaries are commissioned by the Secretary of State for a 4-year term. There are roughly 180,000 active notaries in the state.
2. What does a notary do?
Three main things: verify the signer’s ID, witness the signature or administer an oath, and stamp the document with their official seal. The notary also records each notarization in their journal with the date, type of act, document description, and signer information. This journal is a legal record that can be subpoenaed.
3. How much does a notary charge?
In California, $15 per signature is the maximum for acknowledgments and jurats. That fee is set by the Secretary of State. Mobile notaries charge an additional travel fee ($25 to $75) that is not regulated. Many banks notarize for free for their customers. See our full fee guide.
4. What documents need notarization?
Common ones: deeds, mortgages, powers of attorney, affidavits, and loan documents. County recorders require notarized deeds before they will record a property transfer. Courts require notarized affidavits and sworn declarations. Lenders require notarized mortgage documents. Some documents do not require notarization but include a notary certificate as an option. See why documents are notarized.
5. What do I need to bring to a notary?
A current government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID card). The ID must be current or issued within the past 5 years. The document itself, unsigned unless it requires an acknowledgment (acknowledgments can be signed before the appointment). Bring the full document, not just the signature page. See our what to bring guide.
6. Can a notary give legal advice?
No. Notaries are not attorneys (unless they also happen to be licensed lawyers). They cannot tell you what a document means, whether you should sign it, or how to fill it out. This is one of the most important boundaries for notaries. Explaining a document or advising a signer to sign (or not sign) is unauthorized practice of law. See no delegation of authority.
7. How do I become a notary in California?
Complete a 6-hour state-approved course, pass a 45-question exam (30 correct to pass), pass a Live Scan background check, purchase a $15,000 surety bond, file your commission with your county clerk, and buy your official seal and journal. The process takes about 6 to 12 weeks from start to finish. Total cost runs $200 to $400. See our full guide on how to become a notary.
8. What is the difference between an acknowledgment and a jurat?
An acknowledgment means the signer appeared before the notary and acknowledged signing the document. The signer can sign before the appointment. A jurat means the signer swore under oath and signed in the notary’s presence. For a jurat, the signer must sign right there in front of the notary. Both cost $15. The main difference: acknowledgments are about identity and willingness, jurats are about oath and presence. See acknowledgment vs. jurat.
9. Can a notary notarize for family members?
California does not have a blanket prohibition, but you should not notarize for anyone where you have a financial interest in the transaction. If you are a beneficiary of a trust, do not notarize the trust documents. If your spouse is signing a deed, find another notary. Best practice: avoid notarizing for immediate family when possible. Errors and omissions insurance may not cover claims arising from family notarizations.
10. What is a loan signing agent?
A notary who specializes in real estate closings. They walk borrowers through 100 to 150 pages of loan documents, explain what each document is (without giving legal advice), and notarize the required signatures. Signing agents earn $75 to $200 per appointment. The work comes from title companies, signing services, and direct lender relationships. See our signing agent course.
Where to Find a Notary When You Need One
If you need something notarized today, you have options. Banks and credit unions often provide free notary services for account holders. Shipping stores like The UPS Store and FedEx Office charge a fee but accept walk-ins. Public libraries sometimes have a notary on staff. Search “notary near me” on Google and check the hours before you go.
For after-hours or weekend needs, mobile notaries will come to you. They charge a travel fee on top of the notarization fee, but they are available evenings and weekends when banks and shipping stores are closed. Real estate closings almost always use mobile notaries or signing agents because the borrowers need flexibility on timing and location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a notary public?
A state-appointed official who witnesses document signings, verifies identity, and administers oaths to prevent fraud.
How much does a notary cost in California?
$15 per signature maximum. Travel fees are extra for mobile notaries. Banks often notarize for free for customers.
Can a notary give legal advice?
No. Notaries cannot explain documents, recommend whether to sign, or help fill out forms.
How long does it take to become a notary?
6 to 12 weeks from course to commission. Total cost runs $200 to $400.
What is a signing agent?
A notary who specializes in real estate loan closings. They earn $75 to $200 per appointment.
