It’s the question I get most before booking, and the one that causes the most confusion. Short answer: $15 per notarized signature. That amount is set by the State of California, not by me.
Why is it always $15?
Notary fees in California aren’t decided by whoever holds the commission: they’re set by law. That means the price is the same with me, at a bank, or at any office in the state. If someone charges you more than $15 per notarized signature, they are overcharging you.
What if the service is mobile?
Then it changes, and legally so. Travel is a separate service from the notarization: I leave Hesperia and come to where you are. That amount is billed separately and I tell you before we book, never on arrival.
Is it charged per document or per signature?
Per signature. One document can carry two or three signatures that require notarization, and each one counts. If you’re not sure how many your document needs, send me a photo and I’ll give you the exact total before the appointment.
What to bring
- Current photo ID issued by a government: California driver’s license, passport, consular ID or resident card.
- The complete document, unsigned. The signature happens in front of me.
- Your name exactly as it appears on the document.
- Witnesses, if the document requires them.
Three signs you’re being overcharged
- They charge more than $15 per signature and call it the “notary fee”.
- They don’t mention the travel charge until they’re standing in front of you.
- They bill you for “advice” along with the notarization: a Notary Public does not give legal advice.
If any of that has happened to you, you’re not obligated to accept it. Always ask for the breakdown before signing anything. You can see my full fee list here.