A Notary Public is a state-appointed public official who serves as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents. A notary helps deter fraud by verifying the identity of signers, ensuring they are signing willingly, and administering oaths or affirmations when required.

A California Notary Public may notarize many types of documents, including but not limited to:

Power of Attorney

Affidavits and sworn statements

Acknowledgments and jurats

Real estate documents (grant deeds, quitclaim deeds, loan documents)

School and education forms

Travel consent forms

Healthcare directives

⚠️ Note: A notary cannot notarize incomplete documents or documents that require legal advice.

Incomplete or blank documents

Documents with missing signer(s)

Copies of birth certificates, death certificates, or marriage certificates

Documents if the signer does not appear in person

Documents if the signer lacks proper identification or appears unwilling or unaware.

California law requires all signers to present valid, physical, government-issued photo identification at the time of notarization. Photocopies, photos on a phone, digital IDs, or expired IDs are not acceptable.

Acceptable forms of identification include:

California driver’s license or California ID card

U.S. passport or passport card

Foreign passport (if permitted by California law)

The ID must be current or issued within the last five (5) years, include a photograph, physical description, signature, and a serial or identifying number.

If acceptable identification is not available, a signer may use credible witness(es) as allowed under California notary law.

No. A Notary Public cannot provide legal advice, explain the legal effect of documents, or choose which notarial act a signer needs. For legal guidance, clients should consult a licensed attorney.

Yes. Mobile notary services are available evenings, weekends, and by appointment. Availability may vary, and additional travel fees may apply.