Does it matter what state your notary is in?
Asked by: Miss Karli Botsford | Last update: June 15, 2025Score: 4.5/5 (3 votes)
Can a Notary Legally Notarize Out-of-State Documents? Yes, a notary public can legally notarize documents from any state as long as the notarial act occurs in the state in which they were commissioned.
Can I use a notary from another state?
Under the California Civil Code 1189(b), a notarial certificate from another state is valid as long as it complies with the laws of that state. Currently, California does not allow its own notaries to perform remote online notarization.
Does location of notary matter?
The venue may seem fairly insignificant, but it's actually important. Every notary has a limited jurisdiction in which they can perform notarial duties. In most states, a notary's jurisdiction is limited to the state for which they are appointed.
Do notaries differ by state?
Notary laws vary by state in areas such as commission requirements, types of notarial acts permitted, and methods of notarization. For instance, some states allow notaries to perform electronic notarizations, while others only recognize traditional ink signatures.
What is the hardest state to become a notary?
New York. New York has one of the toughest tests to become a Notary. The Empire State requires Notary applicants to take and pass an exam in order to receive a commission.
Can You Be a Notary in Multiple States?
In what state do Notaries make the most money?
California is the highest paying state in the U.S. when it comes to being a notary public. The average salary of a notary public in California is $59,055.
Does state notary matter?
Once a notary receives his or her commission, he or she is permitted to notarize documents in that state. This means that the location where the document is notarized is important, not necessarily where the document is from.
Can I transfer my notary license to another state?
The answer generally is “no” — Notary commissions are not transferable between states. If you are relocating to another state, you need to resign your current commission and apply for a Notary commission in your new state.
Do notaries get paid by the state?
Once you're a notary, you still work for the bank (though you may get a raise because of your additional function), and it's the bank that pays your salary. The other option is a little more complicated. When someone operates as an independent notary, then that person is running his or her own business.
Are notaries respected?
As representatives of the state, Notaries must perform their official duties with respect and seriousness for the public service role they play as a trusted, impartial witness.
What is the most common mistake made by a notary?
One of the most common mistakes that notaries make is not printing or signing their name exactly as it appears on their notary commission.
Where are notaries needed the most?
Banks, Mortgage Lenders, and Other Financial Institutions
As we pointed out, loan and mortgage documents require signature verification. The same goes for other financial agreements as well. That means financial institutions will need notary services on a regular basis.
Can a notary notarize anywhere?
Yes, California Notaries have statewide jurisdiction (GC 8200).
Which state allows online notary?
Yes, California now allows remote online notarization. Governor Newsom signed SB 696 into law in 2023, which will take effect in 2024.
How much can you charge as a notary in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, there are no set fees (except for protests, an antiquated notarial act that Notaries rarely perform). A Notary may charge any fee they feel is reasonable.
Can a SC notary notarize in NC?
Jurisdiction is limited to the physical borders of South Carolina and notarial acts cannot be performed outside of the state. However, documents for use in another state may be notarized in South Carolina so long as the notarization physically takes place within the borders of the state.
What type of notary makes the most money?
#1: Loan Signing Agent
One of the most lucrative ways to make money as a notary public is by becoming a loan signing agent.
Are notaries specific to states?
Notary commissions are state-specific, and a notary's authority is not typically limited to their own state. For instance, a notary public in Texas can notarize documents intended for use in California unless specific conditions are applied.
Can I be a notary in multiple states?
For example, some states (e.g., California) limit notaries to perform only within their home state borders, while others (e.g., Montana) may allow broader authority under certain conditions.
What is the easiest state to become a notary?
You can get your California notary public six-hour course and take the exam for only $79! The test is only 30 questions and you can miss 9 of them! I look at it more like a quiz because what test is only 30 questions and you can get a passing grade of 70%?
How long does notary take?
In most situations, notaries can typically process a document within 10-15 minutes, including verifying your identification, any required signatures on the documents, administering oaths if needed, and recordkeeping.
Does it matter where the notary is from?
So, can a notary public notarize out-of-state documents? The short answer is yes, notary publics are legally allowed to notarize documents from any state as long the notarial act is conducted within the geographical boundaries of the notary's state of commission.
Can I notarize for family in California?
Yes. A California Notary may perform a notarization for a family member as long as the Notary is not taking the Notary's acknowledgment or affidavit and does not have a direct financial or beneficial interest in from the transaction (Gov't Code 8224 and 8224.1).