What is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public is a responsible person appointed and commissioned by the Secretary of State to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths.  Notaries in California are required to complete an approved educational course of study and pass a background check.  Certified Notary Signing Agents and Qualified Automotive Signing Agents have completed additional courses of study specific to the signing of these types of loan documents.

Why are documents notarized?
To deter fraud.  An impartial witness (the Notary) ensures that the signers of documents are who they say they are and not impostors. The Notary makes sure that signers have entered into agreements knowingly and willingly.

What does it mean for a document to be notarized?
For a document to be notarized, it must contain an original signature (not a photocopy) of the document signer.  A notarial "certificate" which may appear on the document itself or on an attachment is completed by the Notary.  The Notary signs the certification, then applies his or her seal to complete the notarization.  An entry is made into the Notary Journal to record the act.  Often the thumbprint of the document signer is required in the journal as well.

What is an Automotive Signing?                                      Using a notary to assist with signing of automotive loan documents helps deter fraud.  We receive the loan documents from the  dealer or lender, meet with the buyer to properly identify them and secure their signature on the documents, then return the documents to the dealer or lender.  We strive to assist the automotive industry to ensure that their documents are correctly signed and returned quickly to the dealer or lender, improving service to the customer.

Is notarization required by law?
For many documents, yes.  Certain affidavits, real estate deeds and other documents may not be legally binding unless they are properly notarized.

How does a notary identify a signer?
Generally, the Notary will ask to see a current identification document that has a photograph, a number, a physical description of the signer and a signature.  A driver's license, military ID or passport will usually be acceptable.  Under certain circumstances when no acceptable identification is available, a document can be notarized in the presence of two witnesses who personnally know the signer, have acceptable identification, and will attest to their identity.  Click on the Acceptable ID link for additional information about proper identification of a signer.

How much does a notarization cost?
Fees vary - state law controls the amount that can be charged for certain services.   Click on the Fees link for this information. 

Does notarization mean that a document is "true" or "legal"?
No.  Notaries are not responsible for the accuracy or legality of documents they notarize. Notaries certify the identity of signers. The signers are responsible for the content of the documents.

May a Notary give legal advice or draft legal documents?
Absolutely not.  A Notary is forbidden from preparing legal documents for others or acting as a legal advisor unless he or she is also an attorney.

May a Notary certify copies of birth or death certificates?
No.  For certified copies of birth and death certificates, contact the county clerk's office where the birth or death occurred.  For foreign birth certificates, refer to the consulate of the country of origin.          

Can a fax or photocopy be notarized?                                                       A photocopy or fax may be notarized, but only if it bears an original signature (pen and ink).  A photocopied or faxed signature may never be notarized.

Mobile:  714-393-9858

email:  info@notarynote.com

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