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📝 What Do I Need to Notarize a Document? Your Simple Checklist

December 9, 2025
5 min read
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Getting a document notarized shouldn't be complicated. Whether it's a Power of Attorney, a travel consent form, or an affidavit, the process is straightforward, but it requires two non-negotiable items.

As your professional mobile notary, my job is to verify your identity and confirm you are signing willingly. Here is the simple checklist of what you must have ready before I arrive for your appointment.

1. The Document to Be Notarized

First and foremost, you need the document itself. However, there is one critical rule to remember regarding your signature:

The Safest Policy: DO NOT Sign It Beforehand!

Leave the signature line blank. While some acts (like an Acknowledgment) allow for a document to be pre-signed, the easiest way to ensure a smooth, error-free appointment is to sign in my presence.

Crucial for Jurats:

If your document is an affidavit or sworn statement (called a Jurat), you must sign the document in my presence and take an oath or affirmation. If you sign this type of document early, we cannot complete the notarization.

Ensure it is Complete:

Please ensure all blank spaces above the signature line are filled out. A notary cannot offer legal advice or help you decide what information to put into the document; we can only notarize what is presented to us.

2. Acceptable, Current Photo Identification

This is the most crucial requirement. State law mandates that I must positively identify every signer using "satisfactory evidence of identity." The ID must be current (not expired), be government-issued, and include a photograph, physical description, and signature.

Acceptable forms of identification generally include:

State-Issued Driver's License or ID Card
United States Passport
Foreign Passport (Must include stamp from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - USCIS)
U.S. Military ID Card
Permanent Resident Alien Card (Green Card)

Pro-Tip:

If your ID expired yesterday, I cannot accept it. Please double-check the expiration date on your ID before booking your appointment!

3. Physical Presence (And A Clear Head)

While not a physical item, it is required that all signers must be physically present at the time of the appointment. This is the only way a notary can complete a legal verification.

Furthermore, a notary must also determine that the signer appears to be:

  • Aware of what they are signing.
  • Acting under their own free will and not under duress.

What Happens During Your Mobile Notary Appointment

When I arrive at your location, here's what you can expect:

1

Identity Verification

I'll carefully examine your ID to confirm it meets all requirements

2

Document Review

We'll ensure your document is complete and ready for notarization

3

Journal Entry

I'll record the transaction in my official notary journal

4

Witnessing Your Signature

You'll sign the document in my presence

5

Completing the Notarial Certificate

I'll fill out the official notarial language

6

Applying My Seal

Your document gets my official notary seal and signature. The entire process typically takes just a few minutes, but the legal protection it provides lasts forever.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't Sign Early

The biggest mistake people make is signing their document before the notary arrives. Remember, we need to witness your signature.

Bring Current ID

Double-check that expiration date! An expired ID means we cannot proceed with the notarization.

Complete the Document First

Fill in all the blanks before I arrive. I cannot help you decide what information to include.

Have All Signers Present

If multiple people need to sign, everyone must be there at the same time.

Why Choose Mobile Notary Services?

Traditional notary services require you to take time off work, drive across town, and wait in line at a bank or shipping store. With mobile notary services, you get:

Convenience

We come to you, whether that's your home, office, or hospital room

Flexibility

Same-day and evening appointments available

Professional Service

Commissioned, bonded, and insured Utah notaries

Time Savings

No more wasted hours driving around town

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Ready to Get Started?

If you have your unsigned document and your current photo ID, you're ready to go! Skip the trip to the bank and enjoy the convenience of a professional mobile notary who comes to you.

Whether you're dealing with a simple affidavit or complex legal paperwork, we're here to make the notarization process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our commitment is to provide honest, professional service that you can count on.

Need a document notarized? Check our availability and book your mobile appointment today. We serve Utah County and Salt Lake County with reliable, professional mobile notary services.

For more information about our services or to learn about other document types we can help with, visit our services page or check out our frequently asked questions.

Remember: preparation is key to a smooth notarization experience. When you have these three essentials ready – your unsigned document, current photo ID, and your physical presence with a clear mind – we can get your paperwork completed quickly and correctly.