From registering vehicles to establishing Power of Attorney, notaries are authorized witnesses who can make the signing of legal documents official and binding. While the process is straightforward, it can become complicated if certain items are left out. To ensure a speedy and simple transaction, know ahead of time what you need to present. 

What’s Needed for Legal Documents To Be Notarized?

1. Legal Documents 

Naturally, you'll need to bring the legal documents that are to be notarized. However, you can speed up the process by printing and filling the forms out before the meeting. Leave the signature lines blank until the notary official gives their approval. 

2. Involved Individuals 

Some notarizations require multiple people's signatures, such as title transfers, contracts, and Attorney forms' Power. You can have the documents signed separately, and even by different notaries. However, it's not expedient since it requires multiple appointments.  

3. Acceptable Identification

To prove your identity to the notary, you'll need to provide two forms of valid identification. Many believe that birth certificates, or debit, credit, and Social Security cards are sufficient. While they are often useful, by law, notaries cannot accept them. The IDs need to have a picture of the individual, their signature, and a physical description. 

Unexpired state IDs and driver's licenses are acceptable forms of identification, as well as passports. Military members and government employees can use their identification cards, as well. 

Recent immigrants could use foreign passports if the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service (USCIS) stamped them. They can also use their permanent resident card (colloquially known as a Green Card). 

Visitors from Mexico and Canada who need legal documents notarized can use a passport and a driver's license provided that an authorized agency issued them. The driver's license may also have to be in English. 

4. Full Payment 

Notaries require a nominal fee that's dependent on the services rendered. Call ahead of time to inquire about the cost of the transaction you need. It would also be best if you asked what payment options are acceptable. While cash, debit or credit cards, and checks are adequate, some offices allow payment through apps to further streamline their services. 

With nearly 20 years of experience, Guillory's Title & Notary Service has streamlined the notary process without sacrificing quality customer service. Every member of their team is fully bonded and licensed by the state, and they will make sure the legal documents provided are accurate. For those in a hurry, there are next-day title service options and downloadable forms on their website. Located in Ville Platte, LA, reach out to them if you need assistance with renewing state IDs and driver's licenses. To learn more about their company, visit them online or call (337) 506-3957.