California notary appointment rules, in plain language.

Every signer must personally appear.

The notary must be able to identify the signer, determine that the signer is willing, and complete the requested notarial act. Have every signer present at the agreed appointment location with acceptable identification.

Bring the complete document and valid identification.

Have the document complete and ready. The receiving agency, lender, attorney, or document preparer should tell you whether you need an acknowledgment, jurat, witnesses, or another certificate.

What a notary can—and cannot—do.

A California notary performs permitted notarial acts and follows identification and journal requirements. A notary cannot give legal advice, choose a document, explain a document’s legal effect, or decide which notarial certificate is needed.

Fees and mobile appointments.

California regulates the fee for the notarial act itself. Mobile travel, timing, courier, printing, and appointment logistics are disclosed separately before booking. View our pricing details →

Official California resources for clients

Use these state resources for the requirement that applies to your paperwork. They are here for convenience; they do not replace instructions from the attorney, lender, agency, or organization receiving your document.

Last reviewed August 18, 2026. State rules and agency processes can change; always check the linked source before relying on it.

Need help preparing for an appointment?

Text us your city and preferred time. Include the document type and signer count if known. We can help with appointment logistics; legal or document-choice questions belong with the issuing agency, lender, attorney, or document preparer.