Notary Public - Frequently Asked Questions

1) What is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public is appointed by the office of the Secretary of State to witness by an official seal and written acknowledgment, or jurat, the signing of documents as well as administer oath.

2) Why are documents notarized?
To deter fraud. An impartial witness (the Notary) ensures that the signers of documents are who they say they are and not impostors. The Notary makes sure that signers have entered into agreements knowingly and willingly.

3) May any document be notarized?
For a document to be notarized, it must contain: a) text committing the signer in some way, b) an original signature (not a photocopy) of the document signer, c) a notarial "certificate" which may appear on the document itself or on an attachment. The Notary fills in the certificate, signs it, then applies his or her seal to complete the notarization.

4) How does a notary identify a signer?
Generally, the Notary will ask to see a current identification document that has a photograph, physical description and a signature. See question 5 for acceptable forms of ID.

5) What ID is required for any notarization?
Each signer must either present current photo ID such as drivers license, California ID, or passport issued within the last 5 years; or have two other persons present who will swear to the signer's identity, each of whom has a good current photo ID.

6) Is notarization required by law?
For many documents, yes. Certain affidavits, real estate deeds and other documents may not be legally binding unless they are properly notarized.

7) Does notarization mean that a document is "true" or "legal" ?
No. Notaries are not responsible for the accuracy or legality of documents they notarize. Notaries certify the identity of signers. The signers are responsible for the content of the documents.

8) What should I bring with me?
Yourself, your completed documents, and identification (see question 5 for acceptable forms of ID).