What to Bring to a Notary Appointment (Complete Checklist)
Quick answer: Bring a valid, unexpired government photo ID, the unsigned document(s), and all signers who need to appear. For real estate closings, also bring a cashier’s check if required. Leave the signature lines blank — you must sign in front of the notary.
The Essential Checklist
Print this or screenshot it before your appointment:
- Valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or U.S. passport)
- The document(s) to be notarized — printed, complete, with signature lines blank
- All signers present — every person whose signature needs notarizing must appear
- Payment — cash, card, or check depending on the notary (see current fees)
- Any witnesses required — some documents (like wills) require witnesses in addition to notarization
That is all you need for a standard notarization. Below are the details and special situations.
Accepted Forms of ID
The notary must verify your identity using a government-issued photo ID. Here is what is universally accepted and what varies by state:
Always Accepted
| ID Type | Notes |
|---|---|
| State driver’s license | Must be current (unexpired) |
| State identification card | Non-driver ID issued by DMV |
| U.S. passport | Current or recently expired (within 5 years in some states) |
| U.S. passport card | Same validity as a passport book |
Accepted in Most States
| ID Type | Notes |
|---|---|
| U.S. military ID (CAC) | Must include photo |
| Foreign passport | Accepted in most states; some require additional ID |
| Permanent resident card (green card) | Must be current |
Usually NOT Accepted
| ID Type | Why Not |
|---|---|
| Expired driver’s license | Not valid for identity verification |
| Student ID | Not government-issued |
| Employee badge | Not government-issued |
| Credit card with photo | Not government-issued |
| Birth certificate | No photo |
| Social Security card | No photo |
Name must match. The name on your ID must match the name on the document you are signing. If your name has changed (marriage, divorce, legal name change), bring supporting documentation — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Document Preparation
Do NOT Sign Before the Appointment
The most common mistake: signing the document before arriving. A notary cannot notarize a signature they did not witness. If you already signed, you may need to get a new copy of the document.
Fill in All Other Fields
The document should be complete except for the signature line(s). Fill in all names, dates, addresses, and other fields before the appointment. A notary will not notarize an incomplete document because blank fields could be filled in fraudulently after notarization.
Bring the Original Document
Notaries work with original documents, not photocopies (unless you specifically need a copy certification). If the document was emailed to you, print it out and bring the printout.
Know What Type of Notarization You Need
Your document will specify one of two types:
- Acknowledgment — You acknowledge that you signed voluntarily. The most common type. Used for deeds, powers of attorney, and most contracts.
- Jurat — You swear under oath that the document’s contents are true. Used for affidavits and sworn statements. The notary will administer an oath.
If the document does not specify, the notary can help determine the correct type.
What to Bring for Specific Situations
Real Estate Closing
- Everything on the basic checklist
- Cashier’s check or wire transfer confirmation if funds are due at closing
- Second form of ID — some title companies require it
- Any documents requested by the title company (homeowner’s insurance proof, etc.)
- Your loan signing agent or title company will typically send a list of what to bring
See our real estate closing notary checklist for the full guide.
Power of Attorney
- Valid ID for the principal (the person granting power)
- The POA document with all fields completed except signatures
- The agent (person receiving power) does NOT need to be present — only the principal signs
- See our power of attorney notarization guide
Car Title Transfer
- Valid ID for both buyer and seller
- The vehicle title with all fields completed except signatures
- Bill of sale if required by your state
- Some states require both parties to sign in front of the notary simultaneously
Affidavit or Sworn Statement
- Valid ID
- The completed affidavit (unsigned)
- Be prepared to raise your right hand and swear an oath — this is a jurat, not just a signature witness
Documents for International Use
- Valid ID
- The document to be notarized
- You may also need an apostille — a separate certification from the Secretary of State. The notary does not provide this; you apply for it after notarization.
What If You Forgot Something?
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Expired ID | Get a current ID before rescheduling. Some states accept recently expired IDs (within 1-3 years) |
| Already signed the document | Get a new unsigned copy. The notary cannot notarize a pre-signed document |
| Name mismatch (ID vs. document) | Bring supporting documentation or have the document reissued with your legal name |
| Missing a signer | Each signer can appear separately before different notaries. They do not all need to be present at the same time |
| No cash for the fee | Most mobile notaries accept Venmo, Zelle, or card. Bank notaries are often free for account holders |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an expired ID for notarization?
Generally no. Most states require a current, unexpired ID. A few states allow IDs expired within the last 1-3 years. Check with your notary or state requirements before the appointment.
Do I need to bring a witness?
Only if the document specifically requires one. Wills, for example, often need two witnesses in addition to notarization. The witnesses must also bring valid ID. Some notaries can arrange witnesses for an additional fee.
Can someone else bring my document to be notarized?
No. You must appear before the notary in person and sign in their presence. No one can sign on your behalf. If you cannot travel, use a mobile notary who comes to you, or remote online notarization if your state allows it.
What if I have multiple documents?
Bring all of them to the same appointment. Each document with a signature that needs notarizing counts as a separate notarial act, but you can do them all in one visit. This is also cheaper with a mobile notary since you only pay the travel fee once.
Do I need to know the notary’s fee in advance?
It helps. Notary fees are capped by state law (see fees by state), but mobile notary travel fees vary. Ask for the total cost before the appointment so there are no surprises.
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