Most notary appointments take just a few minutes — as long as you show up with the right things. Here’s the complete checklist so your signing goes right the first time, with no wasted trip.
The checklist
1. Valid, unexpired government photo ID for every person signing. Any one of these works:
- California driver’s license or state ID
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Foreign passport (with photo)
- U.S. military ID
The name on the ID needs to reasonably match the name on the document. If you’ve changed your name recently, mention it when you book.
2. The complete document — left unsigned. This is the mistake that causes the most re-dos: do not sign ahead of time. By law you sign in front of the notary. Bring the whole document, filled out but with the signature lines blank.
3. Every signer, present in person. California does not allow a notary to notarize a signature for someone who isn’t physically there. If a document needs three people to sign, all three need to be at the appointment (they don’t all have to be in the same place at the same time if you book separate visits — just ask).
4. Any witnesses the document itself requires. Some documents call for one or two witnesses in addition to the notary. Those witnesses need their own photo ID and generally can’t be named in the document or benefit from it. If you’re not sure, ask when you book.
Two mistakes that force a second appointment
- Signing before the notary arrives. If it’s already signed, in most cases it can’t be notarized as-is. Leave it blank.
- An expired ID. Even a day past expiration is a problem. Check the date before your appointment.
Catch those two and you’re almost certainly fine.
Quick tips by document type
- Power of attorney or healthcare directive: the person granting the authority signs, in person, with ID. More on POA notarization here.
- Loan or real estate package: you’ll be signing a lot — a certified loan signing agent walks you through every page. Have a valid ID and set aside about an hour.
- A signing at a hospital or care facility: the signer needs to be alert and able to communicate — here’s how bedside signings work.
Not sure if you’ve got everything?
Just ask. When you call to book, tell Kristin what you’re signing and she’ll confirm exactly what to have ready — so when she arrives, it takes minutes.
Call or text (619) 300-2842. Kristin comes to you anywhere in San Diego County, available 24/7. Curious what it costs? Here’s the breakdown.