Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have a document notarized with an expired driver’s license?
California Civil Code-allows notarization with an expired driver’s license or ID card so long as it was issued within the last five years.

What forms of ID are acceptable for a Notary?

  • An Id card or driver’s license that the California DMV has issued.fr
  • A legal consular identification document that a consulate from the applicant’s country of citizenship has issued, or a passport from the applicant’s country of citizenship.
  • An ID card that another state has issued.
  • A U.S. military identification card.
  • An identification card that a federally recognized tribal government has issued.
  • An employee ID card issued by an office or agency of the State of California
  • A U.S. passport, An mate ID card that California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has issued, if the inmate is currently in custody in California state prison.
  • cases you will be able to fax or email papers to the process server.

What are the most Common Notary Mistakes?

  • Failing to Require Personal Appearance
  • Failing to Perform the Verbal Oath.
  • Failing to Properly Identify the Signer.

Why are documents notarized?
To deter fraud. An impartial witness (the notary) ensures that the signers of documents are who they say they are and not impostors. The Notary makes sure that signers have entered into agreements knowingly and willingly.

What is a credible identifying witness?
A credible identifying witness is an individual who knows and can verify the identity of a signer. some states, California permit the use of two credible identifying witnesses who aren’t known by the Notary personally but do know the signer and present proof of their own ID

Is online notarization legal in California? (RON)
Remote Online Notarization (RON) is legally permitted in California at this time. California also recognizes online notarizations legally performed by notaries from other states.

If I get a Notarized document in California, will it be recognized by other states?
Yes, other states will recognize notarial acts performed in California. While the specifics may vary depending on the other state’s requirements, precedents have established that notarial acts the comply with the applicable California RON law can be recognized as valid across state lines.

What Types of notarizations are permitted online in California?
California allows public notaries to perform several notarial acts online, including but not limited to:

  • Taking acknowledgments
  • Administering affirmations and oaths
  • Taking depositions and affidavits

May a Notary give legal advice or draft legal documents?
Absolutely not. A Notary is forbidden from preparing legal documents for others or acting as a legal advisor unless he/she is also attorney.

How long is a notarized document valid in California?
Notarized documents do not expire and remain valid indefinitely unless there are specific laws or regulations thar require them to be updated or renewed. It is important to understand your local laws in order to ensure that all documents remain up-to-date and legally binding.

How long does the notarial process take?
The online notarial session will take as little as 5-15 minutes. This includes uploading the document, verifying your ID, connecting with a notary, and notarizing your documents.