How fast can I get something notarized?

Asked by: Elwyn Dickens  |  Last update: April 29, 2026
Score: 4.6/5 (67 votes)

You can get something notarized very quickly, often in under 15 minutes, especially with online notarization which connects you to a notary via video in minutes, available 24/7. In-person notarization usually takes 10-30 minutes per document, depending on identification checks, document review, and signing, with the potential for longer waits if there's no appointment.

How fast can you get something notarized?

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.

How to get a notarized letter asap?

The UPS Store locations offer notary services to help make life easier. Once your documents are notarized, the center will help you make any necessary copies and ship them where they need to go.

Is online notarization faster?

Without the requirement for in-person appointments, documents can be completed and notarized far more quickly. This results in faster turnaround times for individuals and businesses, improving productivity and reducing delays in important transactions.

How hard is it to get something notarized?

A signer must meet face-to-face with a Notary in order to have their signature notarized. Be sure that any person whose signature needs notarization is available and can attend your appointment with the Notary Public. A Notary cannot notarize a person's signature over the phone or video chat.

Where Can I Get Something Notarized

17 related questions found

Can I notarize at CVS?

Yes, CVS offers notary services at select locations and times, but it's not guaranteed at every store, so you need to use the CVS Store Locator to find one near you and check their specific hours, as availability varies by store. You can also check other places like The UPS Store, AAA, or your bank for reliable notary services. 

How much does UPS charge to notarize?

The cost for notary services at The UPS Store is typically around $5 to $10 per signature, depending on state regulations, with $10 being a common fee per principal signature (the person signing) for many locations like those in North Carolina. Fees vary, so check with your local store, as some might charge more for multiple signatures or complex documents, while others stick to the state-set maximum, like $6 in Texas or $10 in Florida. 

How much does it cost to notarize a document online?

Online notary costs typically range from $25 to $50 per document, with many platforms charging around $25 for the first seal and signer, plus potential fees for extra seals or signers (often $5-$25 each), though some business plans offer lower per-session rates. The exact price depends on the service provider, the number of seals and participants, and if it's a one-time personal service or part of a business subscription. 

What is the difference between a notary and an online notary?

Document requirements

Traditional notarization: Involves a tangible paper document signed in ink. In-person electronic notarization: Involves an electronic record, such as a PDF or HTML viewed on a website. The document is presented on a computer, laptop or mobile device and is signed electronically.

Does Staples notarize?

Yes, Staples offers notary services, primarily through online partnerships with providers like Notarize (in the US) and NotaryPro (in Canada), allowing for virtual notarization 24/7, though some physical stores might offer in-person options, so it's best to check your local store for specific availability. You can get documents notarized online using your device or visit specific store locations for assisted services, with fees typically around $25 for the first seal. 

Does Walgreens do notary services?

Yes, many Walgreens locations offer notary services, but not all of them, so you must check with your specific store or use their store locator to confirm availability and hours, as notaries are only present at select times, often requiring appointments for general notary work. 

What is the most common mistake made by a notary?

The most common and serious mistake a notary makes is failing to ensure the signer personally appears before them, which is a legal violation and can lead to fraud and major penalties, but other frequent errors involve incomplete or incorrect notarial certificates, such as missing dates, improper seal placement, illegible stamps, mismatched names, or attaching the wrong certificate type, all of which can invalidate the document. 

Can I get a paper notarized for free?

Notaries aren't always free; while independent notaries and businesses usually charge fees (often capped by state law, like $15 in California), many banks, credit unions, libraries, and government offices offer complimentary notary services, especially for customers or patrons, though some places like UPS Stores or AAA charge small fees for walk-ins. 

Can UPS employees notarize documents?

Yes, many The UPS Store locations have commissioned notaries on staff who can notarize documents like deeds, contracts, and affidavits, but availability varies by location, and you must call ahead to confirm, bring a valid ID, and ensure documents are complete, as they don't offer legal advice or prepare documents. Notaries can witness signatures too, though some stores discourage employees from acting as witnesses due to potential legal responsibilities. 

Can a bank notarize documents?

Yes, many banks offer notary services, often for free to account holders, but availability varies by branch and bank policy, with some restricting it to customers or specific documents, so calling ahead is crucial. While once a common perk, some banks are reducing services, so checking with your local branch for their notary hours and customer/non-customer policies is essential before visiting.
 

Does FedEx do notary?

FedEx Office Online Notary with Notarize is available anytime. Security and transparency are important, but perhaps the greatest benefit of remote online notarization is its accessibility. Documents that require notarization are often time-sensitive.

Can I trust an online notary?

Technology alone isn't enough—signers need confidence that their notary and their platform uphold ethical and legal responsibilities. Trust in RON comes from: Regulatory Compliance: Each state has rules that govern how RON must be performed. Platforms must be approved and notaries must be commissioned.

Who can I not notarize for?

In many states, notaries public are prohibited from notarizing the signature of immediate family such as a spouse, parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, stepbrothers, stepsisters, stepparents, mother-in-laws, and father-in-laws.

Can I use DocuSign as a notary?

With a robust set of features for secure remote notarizations (RON), Docusign Notary enables quick sending, signing, and on-demand, electronic notarization of critical agreements, anytime—whether you have your own notaries or not.

How much does UPS charge to notarize paperwork?

The cost for notary services at The UPS Store is typically around $5 to $10 per signature, depending on state regulations, with $10 being a common fee per principal signature (the person signing) for many locations like those in North Carolina. Fees vary, so check with your local store, as some might charge more for multiple signatures or complex documents, while others stick to the state-set maximum, like $6 in Texas or $10 in Florida. 

Does CVS do notary?

Yes, CVS offers notary services at select locations and times, but it's not guaranteed at every store, so you need to use the CVS Store Locator to find one near you and check their specific hours, as availability varies by store. You can also check other places like The UPS Store, AAA, or your bank for reliable notary services. 

How long does online notarization take?

Signers complete their notarization in less than 10 minutes on average.

Can I notarize a document myself?

In short, you cannot notarize your own documents. Despite having the technical understanding, it's against notary laws to certify your own paperwork. This rule was established to ensure that the notarization process remains unbiased and prevents any potential conflicts of interest or ethical problems.

Do you need an appointment at UPS to get something notarized?

You don't always need an appointment for notary services at The UPS Store, as many locations accept walk-ins, but calling ahead is highly recommended to confirm notary availability, as notaries aren't present at all times, and some locations now encourage or require online scheduling, so checking their website or calling first is best. 

How much does notarization usually cost?

Average notary fees vary by state, but typically range from $5 to $15 per signature/act, with many states setting maximums like $10-$15 for basic services (acknowledgments, oaths) and higher for Remote Online Notarization (RON), often around $25, plus potential travel fees for mobile services, with overall mobile appointments costing more due to convenience.