6 free how-to guides

    Notary Service Guides

    Clear, practical guides for getting documents notarized — what to bring, what notaries can and cannot do, and how to avoid a wasted appointment.

    Whether you need a mobile notary, remote online notarization (RON), a real estate closing, a power of attorney, or an apostille for international use, start with the guide that matches your situation.

    Best for beginners

    First time getting something notarized?

    Start with our complete beginner guide. Learn what ID to bring, why you should not pre-sign, what happens at the appointment, and the mistakes that most often cause a notary to turn you away.

    Read the beginner guide

    In this guide

    • Gather valid government-issued photo ID
    • Complete documents but do not pre-sign
    • Find a qualified notary near you
    • Sign in the notary's presence and pay fees

    Browse all guides

    Pick the guide that matches what you need notarized or how you want to meet the notary.

    Beginner
    10 min read

    Complete Guide to Getting Documents Notarized

    A practical walkthrough of the notarization process — from preparing your documents and ID to signing and storing the finished paperwork.

    You'll learn

    1Gather valid government-issued photo ID
    2Complete documents but do not pre-sign
    3Find a qualified notary near you
    Read full guide
    International
    12 min read

    Apostille and Authentication Process Guide

    A clear guide to apostilles and authentications for international document use — including when notarization is required and how to avoid delays.

    You'll learn

    1Confirm whether the destination country needs an apostille or embassy authentication
    2Notarize the document if it is a private document requiring a notary's certificate
    3Submit to the correct Secretary of State or authenticating authority
    Read full guide
    Service Types
    8 min read

    Mobile Notary Service Guide

    Everything you need to know about hiring a mobile notary — when it makes sense, what it costs, and how to prepare so the visit goes smoothly.

    You'll learn

    1Decide if mobile service fits your situation
    2Find a certified mobile notary in your area
    3Confirm travel fee, timing, and documents
    Read full guide
    Technology
    9 min read

    Online Notarization (RON) Setup Guide

    How to prepare for and complete a remote online notarization (RON) session — legality checks, tech setup, ID verification, and what to expect on the call.

    You'll learn

    1Confirm RON is legal for your state and accepted by the receiving party
    2Prepare a computer or phone with camera, mic, and stable internet
    3Have digital documents and valid ID ready
    Read full guide
    Legal Documents
    9 min read

    Power of Attorney Notarization Guide

    Important, practical steps for notarizing a power of attorney — who signs, what ID is needed, witnesses, and how to avoid a rejected POA.

    You'll learn

    1Confirm your state's POA signing and witness requirements
    2Ensure the principal can appear and understand the act
    3Bring valid ID for the principal (and witnesses if required)
    Read full guide
    Real Estate
    11 min read

    Real Estate Document Notarization Guide

    A practical guide to notarizing deeds, mortgages, and closing packages — who must sign, what to bring, and how to keep your closing on schedule.

    You'll learn

    1Confirm which closing documents require notarization
    2Coordinate with title, escrow, or your attorney
    3Bring proper ID and any required witnesses
    Read full guide

    Ready to get notarized?

    Find certified notaries near you for mobile, in-person, or online notarization.