1.
|
Signer Screening
The Document Signer must personally appear before the Notary Public and present proper identification, e.g., driver’s license, state identification cards, and passport. |
2.
|
Notary Recording Keeping
The Notary Public records the particulars of the document being notarized, e.g., date and time of notarization, type of notarization, document type, Document Signer’s signature, and fingerprint (optional). |
3.
|
Signer Declaration
The Document Signer acknowledges having signed the document willingly or swears or affirms that the contents of the document are true to the Notary for an acknowledgment- or jurat-type notarization. In some cases, the Document Signer writes his/her notarial request on a document for the Notary to witness. |
4.
|
Notary Certification
The Notary dates, signs and places a seal impression on the certificate (including commission expiration date) certifying basic facts of the notarization.This certification completes the notarial transaction. |
| |
| Go to top of page |
| |
|
Other Fields of Specialization
• Notary Signing Agent |
| |
| Go to top of page |
| |
|
| Frequently Asked Questions |
1.
|
My spouse cannot appear before the Notary, can I bring his driver’s license?
No. Personal appearance is required. |
2.
|
Can a Notary answer questions about the content of my document?
No. You may choose to contact an attorney, licensed professional, or the document’s issuing or receiving agency. |
3.
|
Is it okay for a close family member to notarize my document?
Though not under a legal duty to refrain, a Notary Public should not perform any official act with regard to any matter in which the Notary is personally involved, directly or indirectly. |
4.
|
If I do not have a proper ID, will the Notary notarize for me?
No. The Notary will arrange for you to return with a proper ID or credible witness (someone who knows the notary and you). |
5.
|
My friend doesn’t speak English, can a Notary notarize a document for him?
No. The Notary must always be able to communicate directly with the signer to determine awareness. |
6.
|
Can notarizations be performed over the Internet or telephone?
No. Personal appearance is required. |
7.
|
A Notary notarized my documents with an ink seal. Is it illegal to notarize without using an embosser?
California - Ink stamp required.
NOTE- Seal impression must be photographically reproducible. Embossing seal should ONLY be used in conjunction with ink stamp. |
8.
|
Who may apply for appointment as a Notary Public in California?
Any person who is at least 18 years of age. |
9.
|
Is there a website or phone number available to obtain more information?
CA- www.sos.ca.gov/business/notary/ |
