California Notary Laws & Fees
Everything you need to know before hiring a notary in California — from fee caps and ID requirements to remote notarization availability.
$15 per signature
Max Notary Fee
No
RON Available
Yes
Journal Required
CA
State Code
Notary Fees in California
| Service | Maximum Fee |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | $15 per signature |
| Jurat (Sworn Statement) | $15 per signature |
| Travel Fee (Mobile Notary) | Travel fees are separate from notary fees and are negotiable. They must be agreed upon in advance. |
Note: The notary fee is set by state law. Mobile notary travel fees are separate and negotiable. Always ask about total cost upfront.
ID Requirements in California
To get a document notarized in California, you must present one of the following forms of valid, unexpired identification:
- California driver's license or ID
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Foreign passport stamped by USCIS
- Military ID issued by U.S. DoD
- Inmate ID issued by CDCR
Remote Online Notarization (RON) in California
RON is Not Currently Available
California does NOT currently allow Remote Online Notarization. All notarizations must be performed in person with the signer physically present.
Tips for Consumers in California
What to Do
- •California has strict ID requirements — bring a current, valid government-issued photo ID
- •You will need to provide a thumbprint in the notary's journal for real estate and power of attorney documents
- •Mobile notary travel fees are separate from the $15-per-signature notary fee
- •California does NOT allow online/remote notarization — you must appear in person
- •The notary cannot notarize a document written in a language they don't understand
What Notaries Cannot Do
- •Provide legal advice or draft documents
- •Notarize a document if the signer is not physically present
- •Notarize vital records
- •Act as an immigration consultant
- •Charge more than $15 per signature for notary fees
Documents Commonly Notarized in California
Grant deeds
Trust certifications
Powers of attorney
Loan documents
Affidavits
Advance healthcare directives
Special Rules in California
- Thumbprints required in journal for deeds and powers of attorney
- Notaries must use specific California notarial certificate wording
- California prohibits RON — all notarizations must be in person
Frequently Asked Questions — California
How much does a notary cost in California?
California law caps notary fees at $15 per signature. Mobile notaries charge an additional travel fee that varies by distance and is negotiable.
Can I get a document notarized online in California?
No. California currently prohibits Remote Online Notarization. You must appear in person before a commissioned California notary.
Do I need to give a thumbprint for notarization in California?
Yes, for certain documents. California law requires a journal thumbprint for real estate deeds, powers of attorney, and certain other documents.
Notary Laws in Other States
Need a Notary in California?
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