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Notary Bulletin

Hotline Tip: Can I Notarize Documents That Will Be Recorded In Another State?

By NNA Staff on May 24, 2012

NNA Hotline Tip LogoAs a Virginia Notary, am I able to notarize a document that will be recorded in another state, such as North Carolina? —​ L.U., Woodbridge, Virginia

A Virginia Notary may notarize documents that are recorded across state borders, as is true for notarizations performed in any state.

It doesn’t matter where the documents will be filed, as long as the notarization you perform is within your jurisdiction and you follow the laws of the state where you are commissioned.

Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors

Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline counselors to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.

View All: Hotline Tips

346 Comments

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Brenda

21 Jul 2014

I am a Notary in South Carolina. May I notarize a document that is to be recorded in Virginia.

National Notary Association

22 Jul 2014

Hello Brenda, thank you for your question. As the hotline tip above states, it doesn’t matter where the documents will be filed, as long as the notarization you perform is within your jurisdiction and you follow the laws of the state where you are commissioned.

Denise Griffith

26 Jul 2014

I'm a notary in Massachusetts and a friend ends up in Connecticut at hospital waiting for emergency surgery but needs a proxy notarized...can I do it?

National Notary Association

28 Jul 2014

Hi Denise, thank you for your question. I'm sorry, but Massachusetts only permits its Notaries to notarize documents within the borders of the state-you may not travel to notarize a document in Connecticut. Your friend would have to ask a Connecticut Notary for assistance.

Whitney

30 Jul 2014

I am a notary in New York. My cousin lives in Florida. He asked if I can notarize his marriage license. Can I?

National Notary Association

31 Jul 2014

Hello Whitney, Thank you for your question. You didn't specify what kind of notarization your cousin is asking for, but there are a couple of possible issues based on the situation you describe. First, if your cousin wants a copy certification done, New York does not permit copy certification, either directly or by document custodian, for vital records such as birth, marriage and death certificates. Second, though some New York residents may qualify for a commission in Connecticut or New Jersey, a New York Notary does not have jurisdiction to notarize documents in the state of Florida. Any notarial act your cousin requested would have to be permitted and take place within New York's borders. Since it sounds like there may be additional complications regarding this request, I would suggest that you contact our Hotline counselors at hotline@nationalnotary.org with additional details and ask if they can provide further guidance for you. I hope this information helps you. Have a great day.

Danisha Reed

31 Jul 2014

Hi I am a South Carolina Notary can I Notorize for the entire state of South Carolina.

National Notary Association

31 Jul 2014

Hi Danisha, thank you for your question. South Carolina Notaries have statewide jurisdiction, so you may notarize anywhere within the state's borders. Have a great day.

Anna

25 Aug 2014

Hi, I am a notary in Virginia but recently moved to New York. A friend here in NY needs needs a document notarized. Am I able to notarize a document in NY state although my commission is originated from Virginia? Any guidance is greatly appreciated.

National Notary Association

26 Aug 2014

Hello Anna, thank you for your question. First, are you still regularly employed in Virginia? Virginia only allows out-of-state residents to maintain a Notary commission if the Notary is regularly employed in Virginia. (COV 47.1-4) A nonresident Notary who ceases to be regularly employed in Virginia must surrender his or her commission. Second, is the document is paper or electronic and where is the document going to be used? Virginia Notaries may notarize a traditional paper document outside the state's borders only if the document is intended to be used in the Commonwealth of Virginia or by the U.S. federal government. Otherwise, a traditional paper document must be notarized within Virginia's borders. The Commonwealth of Virginia has separate rules for becoming an electronic Notary and notarizing electronic documents. For more information on Virginia eNotarizations, please see https://commonwealth.virginia.gov/official-documents/notary-commissions/.

Hannah

27 Aug 2014

I am a minor planning on getting a tattoo with my mom in Florida. I need a underage (over 16) document notarized to get a tattoo even with my mom there. Can I have the document notarized in Ohio or does it need to be done in Florida?

National Notary Association

28 Aug 2014

Hello Hannah, Thanks for your question. We would recommend contacting either the issuing agency or the document recipient to confirm with them whether an out-of-state notarization on the document would be acceptable.

Kyle

28 Aug 2014

If I am a notary in the State of Indiana and am asked to notarize a Wisconsin document for someone who is presenting a Wisconsin driver's license and, thus, presumed to be a resident of Wisconsin, can I notarize this document? The notarization would take place within the boundaries of the State of Indiana.

National Notary Association

28 Aug 2014

Hi Kyle. The Indiana Secretary of State's official Notary guide provides the following guidelines for identifying signers: "In the event a notary public does not know the person presenting the instrument for notarization, the notary should do the following: Ask the person for identification (driver's license), or Have another person identify the party requesting notarization. If neither option is available or satisfactory, the notary may ask the person to take an oath as to his/her identity. If these attempts at identification are unsuccessful, the notary may refuse service for his/her own protection." Since the notarization is taking place in Indiana and the guide lists a driver's license as an example of identification you can accept from a signer, you should be able to accept a Wisconsin driver's license as ID.

Patrick

28 Aug 2014

I need to have a document notarized for a divorce in BC Canada, but I live in Virginia. Am I able to get a foreign document notarized by a VA Notary?

National Notary Association

28 Aug 2014

Hi Patrick. You should check with the document issuing agency in Canada to find out what type of notarial act is being requested. If it's an act a Virginia Notary can perform, then you should be able to have it notarized in Virginia. If the act is one that Virginia notarized aren't authorized to perform then you may need to contact a local Canadian consulate or embassy for assistance in having the document notarized.

Georgia Shumpert

04 Sep 2014

Can a North Carolina notary notarized legal documents to be filed in South Carolina

National Notary Association

05 Sep 2014

Hello Georgia, There should be no issues with notarizing the documents, provided they meet all requirements for notarization under North Carolina law. Thanks and have a great weekend.

Donna

08 Sep 2014

I am a Nebraka notary, can I notarize a car title for Arizona when my friend comes here to Nebraska for a visit?

National Notary Association

08 Sep 2014

Hello Donna. Nebraska Notaries have jurisdiction to notarize documents within the borders of the state (RSN 64-101[2]). Provided the notarization takes place within the borders of Nebraska, the requested notarial act is one you are authorized to perform in Nebraska and all other requirements under Nebraska Notary law are met, you should be able to notarize the document.

nicole

17 Sep 2014

Im a notary in Texas and they are asking me to notarize an affidavit of gift of motor vehicle going to New Mexico can I notarize both the affidavit of donor and affidavit of recipient if they are both present of course. Its going from Texas to New Mexico.

National Notary Association

24 Sep 2014

Hello, Nicole, thanks for your question. We forwarded it to our Hotline team and here's their response: "As a Texas Notary Public you can notarize both of the signer's signatures, as long as they are both present. Make sure that the notarial wording on the document is correct and there is room to make a clear impression of your commission stamp. If there is no room for a clear impression of your stamp, then attach a loose certificate of the same notarial act. If there is incorrect notarial wording, then attach a loose certificate of the same notarial act. Only fill out the attached loose certificate, then sign, stamp and staple the certificate to the affidavit."

Frances Rodriguez

26 Sep 2014

I'm a Notary in Texas. May I notarize a document for someone who lives in New Mexico?

National Notary Association

29 Sep 2014

Hello, Thanks for your question. Texas Notaries are authorized to notarize documents within the borders of the state. (GC 406.003). You would not be able to travel to New Mexico to perform the notarization, however, if the signer traveled to your state you could notarize the document in Texas, provided all other requirements of Texas notarial law are met.

Andrew Hwang

02 Oct 2014

My friend is a Notary in New Jersey. May he notarize a document that is to be recorded in New York?

National Notary Association

03 Oct 2014

Hello, A New Jersey Notary may notarize a document to be recorded in New York, provided the notarization takes place within the borders of New Jersey and all other requirements for notarization under New Jersey law are met.

dana

07 Oct 2014

I'm a Florida notary and my best friend who is in Virginia needs a power of attorney notarized. .. Can I do it with my Florida stamp?

National Notary Association

09 Oct 2014

Hello Dana, Thanks for your question. You may notarize signatures on the document provided the notarization takes place in Florida, the signer appears in person before you for the notarization and the notarial act meets all requirements of Florida law. You may not travel to Virginia to notarize the document there.

Carlene

15 Oct 2014

can I notarize an affidavit for child care in the state of Texas

National Notary Association

15 Oct 2014

Yes, provided the notarization request meets all requirements of Texas law.

Natalie

16 Oct 2014

As an Indiana notary can I notarize documents in the state of Ohio?

National Notary Association

16 Oct 2014

Hello, No, an Indiana Notary may only notarize within the borders of the state.

Tanya

24 Oct 2014

I'm an Arizona Notary. Can I travel to California and notarize documents there? I was told yes by a lawyer who referenced Arizona statue 33-501. Thank you.

National Notary Association

24 Oct 2014

Hello Tanya, Arizona Notaries are only authorized to notarize documents within the boundaries of the state. (ARS 41-312). Also, page 14 of the Arizona Notary Public Handbook published by the Secretary of State's office says: "Arizona notaries public may only notarize documents within the state boundaries of Arizona." You can download and read a PDF copy here: http://www.azsos.gov/business_services/notary/Notary_Public_Reference_Manual.pdf

john

03 Nov 2014

My LLC is in NY. I do a lot of my work in NE Pennsylvania. If I apply for a NY notary can I also notarize documents in Pennsylvania, or must I become a PA notary?

National Notary Association

03 Nov 2014

Hello John, A New York Notary only has jurisdiction within the borders of New York. To notarize in PA, you would need a Pennsylvania commission. PA Notary applicants must either be residents of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or be employed and maintain a physical business address within the Commonwealth.

OLIVIA LORENZO

06 Nov 2014

I just received my divorce papers from Florida and they need to be signed and notarized. I live in New Jersey and the papers states STATE OF FLORIDA....can a New Jersey Notary notarize it? Should'nt it state STATE OF NEW JERSEY?

National Notary Association

13 Nov 2014

Hello Olivia, The state entered in the venue portion of the notarial certificate should reflect the location where the notarization took place. For more information, please see this article: http://www.nationalnotary.org/notary-bulletin/blog/2014/11/out-of-state-document-notarization

KC

10 Nov 2014

I am a New York State Notary, if I move to MA and surrender my commission in NYS, do I have to retake the exam in the new state to become Notary in that state?

National Notary Association

11 Nov 2014

Hello KC. Yes, that's correct-you will need to apply for a new Notary commission in Massachusetts if you wish to become a Notary after moving to that state.

TC

13 Nov 2014

Can a Florida Notary notarize in Costa Rica?

National Notary Association

13 Nov 2014

Hello, No, a Florida Notary's jurisdiction is statewide only.

TC

13 Nov 2014

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I had to tell 2 attorneys the same thing and they seem to think there is some precedent that a Florida Notary can go to the US Embassy/Consulate in Costa Rica and notarize. I disputed this with the attorney and he seemed to think I was wrong.

National Notary Association

13 Nov 2014

You're welcome. FS 117.01[1] states "Notaries public shall be appointed for 4 years and shall use and exercise the office of notary public within the boundaries of this state."

David

21 Nov 2014

I have to sign a legal verification document for a case filed in West Virginia. My company is based in Pennsylvania and my employee who is a notary is registered in PA. The form itself had the WV county and State information filled out by our PA attorney. He has directed us to sign and notarize in PA but the document clearly says WV. We crossed it out, wrote in PA, and the attorney rejected it. Who is correct? I understand that the document has to be filed in court in the WV county, but I thought that the notary is notarizing my signature in the state where I sign it. The state is in the upper left with the S S designation, which I understand to be the County and State that I appear before the notary in. Am I wrong? Thank you.

National Notary Association

21 Nov 2014

Hello David, The venue on the Notary certificate wording indicates the location where the notarization takes place, not the location where the document is going to be filed. Pennsylvania Notaries only have jurisdiction to notarize within the borders of the state, not outside it. (57 PS 148) Falsely indicating that a notarization took place in a state you are not authorized to notarize in could result in disciplinary action by the PA Department of State, including a written reprimand, suspension of your commission or revocation of your commission. (57 PS 168)

David Mantheiy

22 Nov 2014

Thank you so much for your prompt response. You've confirmed our position, which I will try to convey to our attorney.

Cindy Joseph

05 Dec 2014

I am a New York State Notary and was asked to notarize a signature on an affidavit in Baltimore, MD. Can I notarize this affidavit?

National Notary Association

05 Dec 2014

Hello, Cindy. Yes, provided the signer personally appears before you and the notarization takes place within the borders of New York state, and all requirements under New York state law are met.

Sharon

08 Dec 2014

I am a notary in the State of Minnesota, I have just moved to Georgia and need to notarize some paperwork for my employer here. Would that be a valid notarization?

National Notary Association

08 Dec 2014

Hello Sharon, Minnesota Notaries only have jurisdiction to notarize within the boundaries of Minnesota. You may not notarize documents while traveling in another state such as Georgia. If you have moved to Georgia, to continue serving as a Notary you will need to resign your MN commission and apply for a Georgia commission.

Pen

08 Dec 2014

Can my Uncle have a document notarized in NC? He needs a document stating he allows his ex wife to take his son out of the country to visit family for 2 weeks. He has recently moved back to NC from Nevada.

National Notary Association

10 Dec 2014

Hello Pen, Your uncle may certainly request a notarization in North Carolina, provided he appears before the Notary in person and meets all other requirements of NC notarial law. However, if your uncle is unsure whether a notarization would be accepted by the document's receiving agency for some reason, he would need to contact the receiving agency or consult with a qualified attorney for additional instructions.

Rese

09 Dec 2014

I am a GA notary. Can I notarize a document in Alabama?

National Notary Association

10 Dec 2014

Hello Rese, No, Georgia Notaries only have jurisdiction to notarize within the boundaries of the state. (OCGA 45-17-9)

Sharon

15 Dec 2014

We are in NJ and have a document that needs to be signed by both an NJ and DE notary. Short of driving to DE (which is not an option) how can I get a Delaware notary to sign a document when I am in NJ? Thank you!

National Notary Association

15 Dec 2014

Hello Sharon, Delaware Notaries only have jurisdiction to notarize within their state's borders. If you wish to have your signature notarized by a Delaware Notary, you will need to travel to that state to have it done.

Dina Swan

29 Dec 2014

Can you notarize a document in Indiana for someone who lives in Illinois, if the notary is commissioned in Indiana?

National Notary Association

29 Dec 2014

Yes, provided the document signer appears in person before the Notary within the borders of Indiana and all other requirements of Indiana law are met.

Pam

29 Dec 2014

I have hired an employee who is a notary in Illinois. We are located in Indiana. Can she notarize documents for our clients here in Indiana?

National Notary Association

29 Dec 2014

Hello, No, a Notary commissioned in Illinois may only notarize within the borders of Illinois. You would need to contact an Indiana Notary for assistance.

Judith

29 Dec 2014

If I have a Note and Mortgage in PA, can I have these notarized in Broward county FL?

National Notary Association

29 Dec 2014

Yes, but only if the document signer personally appears with the original documents before the Notary in Florida and all other requirements for notarization under Florida's laws are met. You may also wish to contact the receiving agency to ask if they will accept documents that are notarized in a different state.

Lee

02 Jan 2015

Can WV notary notarize a document in Kentucky

Naitonal Notary Association

05 Jan 2015

Hello, No, a Notary commissioned in West Virginia may only notarize documents within the boundaries of the state. (WCV 29C-2-102.)

Ada Jane Coleman

08 Jan 2015

We live in Indiana. We need a document notarized by two people: a person living in Alabama along with another person living in Indiana. Can we send the document to Alabama to be notarized and then receive it back here to be notarized in Indiana? (The document would be executed in the state of Indiana.)

National Notary Association

08 Jan 2015

Yes. In both cases, the signer must appear in person before the Notary to have their signature notarized.

Melanie Cuevas

10 Jan 2015

My husband is leaving soon and we currently live in VA. We need to do a last will and testament for him. We will be moving to FL while he is gone. If we have the will notarized in VA will it uphold in FL or do we need to get a will that states the county we will be living in in FL? THANKS IN ADVANCE!

National Notary Association

12 Jan 2015

Hello Melanie, I apologize, but because this question is regarding the legality of the will and we are not authorized to give legal advice, you would need to contact an attorney familiar with Florida law regarding wills and testaments to answer that question.

Rich

11 Jan 2015

Getting a divorce and wife lives in foreign country, will the courts accept her notarized documents from her country of residence?

National Notary Association

12 Jan 2015

Hello Rich, That's a question that would depend on the individual court agency accepting the documents. You may wish to contact the court directly or consult with an attorney familiar with the laws of the country in question for assistance.

James Green

15 Jan 2015

I am a SC notary and I notarize a lot of files daily for a bank. Due to the volume of documents I notarize, my signature does not always look like my original signature. If I am keeping a record of every document I notarize, is it ok that my signature changes?

Yvonne

21 Jan 2015

Can a Minnesota notary living in Mexico still notarize documents while out of the USA?

National Notary Association

21 Jan 2015

Hello, No, a MN Notary may only notarize within the state's borders.

Kristina

05 Feb 2015

Hello - I am a Notary in Massachusetts, I need to notarize a document signed in CT, will this be possible and will the document hold up?

National Notary Association

09 Feb 2015

Hello, You may notarize the document provided that the signer personally appears before you in the state of Massachusetts and follows all requirements of MA law for the notarial act.

Donald

19 Feb 2015

Buying a car from Indiana, and I live in Kentucky. Since it is registered in Indiana, does the out of state transfer paper have to be notarized by a notary from Indiana, or can it be a notary from Kentucky?

National Notary Association

19 Feb 2015

Hello, There is nothing in Kentucky or Indiana Notary law prohibiting you from having the document notarized in either state, provided the signer physically appears before the Notary within the state where the Notary is commissioned and all other state law requirements are met. However, you may wish to contact the vehicle seller to ask if the seller has a requirement for the document to be notarized in a particular state.

Robert K

19 Feb 2015

I am a notary in NJ as part of my company and we have a satellite office in Ny. If employees in NY bring me documents and sign them in front of me in NJ, is that allowed? Also can I hold duel notary commissions in NJ and NY

National Notary Association

20 Feb 2015

Hello Robert, Yes, you may perform notarizations for the employees, provided that they personally appear before you in New Jersey and all other requirements of New Jersey notarial law are met. Persons residing in other states but who have an office or place of business in New York State may become New York State Notaries.

Sandy hall

28 Feb 2015

I am a notary in ohio, can a wv resident bring a document to me to notarize and it will be legal in wv?

National Notary Association

02 Mar 2015

Hi Sandy. A person from West Virginia could certainly bring a document to Ohio and request that you notarize it. You would need to follow all required procedures under Ohio Notary law. However, for any questions regarding the legality of a notarized document, the signer would need to consult an attorney.

Molly

05 Mar 2015

Okay so In Maine, minors can't get tattoos. I am going to Florida this year before I turn 18 and want to get a tattoo. Can I get the consent form needed to get a tattoo in Florida, notarized in Maine before I go?

National Notary Association

06 Mar 2015

Hello Molly. It sounds like you want to know if a notarized consent form for a tattoo would be legally acceptable in Florida. Unfortunately, that's a legal question that we can't answer. While you can request your signature to be notarized on any document in Maine--provided that the notarization meets all requirements of Maine Notary law--notarization by itself doesn't guarantee that a business won't refuse a document for other reasons.

Jessica

05 Mar 2015

Hi there, I'm filling out an application for a new Birth Certificate based on Perentage (for our son, & yes we are married now) & wanted to know if we can get it notarized in California even though he was born in Texas?

National Notary Association

06 Mar 2015

Hi Jessica. You should contact the vital records agency you are submitting the application to and ask for specific instructions regarding notarizing the application document.

Carina

10 Mar 2015

I'm a Florida notary and court reporter. Can I administer an oath in Indiana for a deposition?

National Notary Association

10 Mar 2015

Hello Carina. Florida Notaries may only notarize within the borders of their own state. You cannot administer an oath in Indiana.

Deborah

13 Mar 2015

I live in New Hampshire I work in Massachusetts I would like to be a notary in Massachusetts to be an asset to my employer and my able to do this

National Notary Association

16 Mar 2015

Hello Deborah. An applicant for a commission as a Massachusetts Notary Public must (EO Sec. 3[a]): (a) be at least 18 years old and (b) reside legally or conduct business on a regular basis within Massachusetts.

margaret

24 Mar 2015

I am a NY notary can i notarize a power of attorney in CT?

National Notary Association

24 Mar 2015

Hello. No, New York Notaries may only notarize within the borders of their state.

tom

24 Mar 2015

Hi,Can I get a PA power of attorney/living will document notarized in the state of NJ? Thanks

National Notary Association

24 Mar 2015

Hello. A NJ-commissioned Notary may notarize a document brought from another state. The document signer must appear in person before the Notary within the borders of NJ and meet all other requirements of NJ Notary law.

Joe

25 Mar 2015

I am an NY notary asked to notarize a document in NY. The document will be submitted to a court in Ohio. Ohio requires a seal, but NY does not. Do I need to include a seal on the document?

National Notary Association

25 Mar 2015

Hello. As long as the document is notarized according to NY law, it should be accepted in Ohio.

Monique Hunt

25 Mar 2015

I am a notary in NY and I am asked to notarize something for NJ, am I allowed to do this?

National Notary Association

26 Mar 2015

Hello Monique. A signer from New Jersey could bring a document to you and have you notarize it within the borders of New York. However, you cannot travel to New Jersey to notarize a document there.

Maria

26 Mar 2015

Hi I am a notary in Texas and currently live in Mexico, a co workers needs something notarized for the state of texas. Buit we are currently in a foreign country. May I still notarize?

National Notary Association

27 Mar 2015

Hello. No, I'm sorry, but Texas does not authorize Notaries to perform their duties outside the borders of the state.

Jessica

30 Mar 2015

I am getting married in married, but I live in pa, the marriage application states its needs to be signed by an official who can issue marriage licenses in my area. Does a notary count? Can they sign it, instead of going to the county courthouse?

National Notary Association

01 Apr 2015

Hello Jessica. Notaries in Pennsylvania are not authorized to issue marriage licenses.

Tu

30 Mar 2015

I am NJ Notary and work in NY. Is it true that a NJ notary is permitted to notarize documents in Manhanttan? If yes, please provide the rule permitting. Thank you.

National Notary Association

01 Apr 2015

Hello. A New Jersey commission only permits you to notarize within the borders of the state of New Jersey. However, if you have an office or place of business in New York state, you may apply for a New York Notary commission that would permit you to notarize within the borders of New York. If you need assistance or information about becoming a New York Notary, you can contact our Customer Care team at 1-800-876-6827 or services@NationalNotary.org.

Matt

31 Mar 2015

I am executor of my brother's estate. I live in NY, he lived in Pennsylvania. As executor I am authorized to sell his vehicles on behalf of the estate. The PA title for his car requires a notarized signature to sell. Do I need to travel to PA to have a PA notarize my signature, or can I use a NY notary?

National Notary Association

01 Apr 2015

Hello Matt. We're sorry, but we can't answer legal questions regarding the disposition of a deceased individual's estate. Any such questions should be directed to a qualified attorney.

Ben

10 Apr 2015

So I had a document e-notarized by a Virginia notary for a document i'm using for Texas, will it be valid?

National Notary Association

14 Apr 2015

Hi Ben. Generally, a document that is notarized in compliance with its origin state's laws is acceptable if sent to another state. However, without knowing more about the specific details of the document in question, it's impossible to be sure if another issue might lead to the document being rejected. For example, the document is a real property document and the county it is sent to doesn’t have an electronic recording system, it may present challenges. Or the particular agency relying on the document may be more comfortable with a paper notarization.

bethkmitchell@yahoo.com

16 Apr 2015

Can a Texas Notary notarize a Colorado Medical Power of Attorney and a Colorado Durable Power of Attorney?

National Notary Association

16 Apr 2015

Hi Beth. You may notarize a document prepared in another state. However, the signer would need to personally appear before you in your state (in this case, Texas), and you would need to follow all of your state's rules regarding notarization, including how to identify the signer, the notarial certificate wording used, etc.

Bridget Mills

24 Apr 2015

I'm buying a truck in PA that will be title/registered it in Maryland. Can a MD Notary notarize a document in PA that will be filed in MD?

National Notary Association

27 Apr 2015

Hello Bridget. No, Maryland Notaries may not travel to notarize documents in Pennsylvania-only within the borders of Maryland.

Joann Roberts

27 Apr 2015

In the Q&A section of the N.N.A , why isn't the N.N.A answering the questions with,"yes, that is correct or "no, the is incorrect & then give the reason. I am reading through peoples questions & reading the N.N.A. answer & some answers are unclear to me. The explanation by the N.N.A is given but one has to dissect it. I think a firm yes or no at the beginning of each explanation would give readers a better learning advantage. I am trying to learn as much as possible before I become an active Notary & although the information provided is good, I think it could be better with more conviction at the beginning of an explanation. thank you

Shirley

01 May 2015

I am a Mass Notary who is planning to move to New York. Can I notarize documents in New York?

National Notary Association

04 May 2015

Hello Shirley. You cannot notarize documents in the state of New York with a Massachusetts commission. In order to notarize documents after you move to New York, you will need to apply for a New York Notary commission. More information is available from the NY Department of State here http://www.dos.ny.gov/licensing/notary/notary.html or you can get assistance applying for your commission from the NNA's Customer Care team at 1-800-876-6827 or www.NationalNotary.org.

Jesse

05 May 2015

I need a document notarized with me and my 3 siblings' signatures...3 of us live in LA but the fourth lives in WA. Can she get her signature notarized there and then we do our here?

National Notary Association

05 May 2015

Hello. Yes, it is a common practice to have one person's signature on a document notarized in one location, and then have other people's signatures on the document notarized separately at another location.

Sara J

07 May 2015

Hello. I need to write a notarized letter to my bank in Maryland that I wish to close my bank accounts; however I now live in Utah. Can I have either a Maryland or Utah resident notarize this as long as they do it in their respective state?

National Notary Association

08 May 2015

Hello Sara. You can have your signature notarized in either state, but you would have to appear personally before the Notary in order to do so. You would not be able to send the signed document to another state to have your signature notarized outside your presence.

Tommy Davis

08 May 2015

I am a Notary for the state of SC if I move to GA how can I obtain my GA notary certificate or can I transfer it?

National Notary Association

08 May 2015

Hello Tommy. You can't transfer a Notary commission between states. You would need to resign your SC commission, then apply for a GA commission through the Clerk of the Superior Court's office for the appropriate county in Georgia. A list of county offices is available at www.gscca.org/clerks/.

Tina

12 May 2015

I am a Notary for the state of Pennsylvania. My cousin need to notary her certificate and she is holding NJ driver's license. Can I notarize document in NJ?

National Notary Association

12 May 2015

Hello. No, Pennsylvania Notaries may only notarize within the borders of PA.

Bill

13 May 2015

I am a Virginia resident but work in Washington, DC. Can I have a DC notary in my office notarize a will to be filed in VA?

National Notary Association

14 May 2015

Hello. You can have your signature on a document notarized by a Notary commissioned in Washington, DC, provided that you appear in person before the Notary in DC and follow all other requirements of DC Notary law.

Bill

14 May 2015

I live in Arizona and we are trying to get my step son his learners permit. Application has been signed and notarized by a Louisiana public notary. Father lives in Louisiana and since Louisiana does not use a seal or permit they will not accept. They keep telling me it has to have a seal or stamp. Do states not honor other states Public Notary requirements?

National Notary Association

14 May 2015

Hi Bill. Normally government agencies will accept a document notarized in another state, provided it meets all of that state's notarial law requirements. Louisiana does not require its Notaries to use seals, though some choose to do so. If the agency in question won't accept the notarized document without a seal, you could send the application back to Louisiana and see if another Notary who uses a seal could notarize the signature a second time. Another option would be to contact the Louisiana Secretary of State's office to find out if you can send the notarized document to them to attach a certificate of authentication confirming the Notary's status. This costs $20 and you can reach the LA Secretary of State's office at 1-225-922-0330. Please aware that if you decide to go with this option, processing and returning the document to you may take some time.

Heidi

22 May 2015

Can my sister become a notary in New York and Marry my fiancé and I in Florida?

National Notary Association

26 May 2015

Hello Heidi. No, I'm sorry, but Notaries commissioned in New York are not authorized to perform marriage ceremonies. You would need a Notary commissioned in Florida to perform the ceremony, as Florida Notaries are authorized to solemnize marriages in the state.

ivanna

25 May 2015

i was born in California but now live in New Jersey. I need a notarized sworn statement to get my birth certificate for a passport. Do i need someone in California to do it, or can i find someone here in New Jersey to notarize my papers?

National Notary Association

28 May 2015

Hi Ivanna. You would need to be physically present to have a sworn statement notarized, so your best option would be to contact a New Jersey Notary.

Kelli

31 May 2015

I live in Arizona, and I have a vehicle power of attorney from my husband that needs to be signed- my cousin lives in Texas and wants to know if they can notarize the document for me?

National Notary Association

01 Jun 2015

Hello. In order for the signature on the document to be notarized, the signer would need to appear in person before the Notary.

alred souma

31 May 2015

I have a last will and testament notorized in New Hampshire. I recently moved to Florida. Do I have to have the document notorized in florida

National Notary Association

01 Jun 2015

Hello. Any questions regarding legal requirements for a last will and testament need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Yani

02 Jun 2015

I am currently a notary in NY but will be moving to FL. I will be getting a new FL notary license as I know that I will need it. My question to you is... if I am in FL and have to notarize something to be sent to NY (for my company which will still have an office in NY) am I able to use my Florida Seal (provided that the person signs in front of me)?

National Notary Association

04 Jun 2015

Hello. Once you are commissioned as a Florida Notary, there's no problem with you notarizing documents in Florida that were prepared in another state or that are being sent to another state, provided all requirements for notarization under Florida law are met. However, you won't be able to notarize documents in Florida until you receive your FL commission and seal.

Michelle

11 Jun 2015

Hello I moved to Tampa Florida from Michigan. Would I have to go through the whole process again or can my commission be switched? Thanks in advance

National Notary Association

11 Jun 2015

Hello. You will need to resign your Michigan commission and apply for a Florida Notary commission to serve as a Notary in Florida.

Jennifer

13 Jun 2015

Hello, We ran an ad in a local paper about an auction. It ran in Florida and the document from the newspaper has an Ohio notary seal. Should it not have been notarized by a Florida notary? (It is a Jurat.)

National Notary Association

17 Jun 2015

Hello Jennifer. It's permissible to have a document notarized in a different state, but only if the signer appears in person before the Notary and follows all of the state's Notary laws for the notarization. You should contact the organization that had the document notarized if you have questions about why they chose to use an out-of-state Notary.

DEnnis Biondo

16 Jun 2015

As a Notary in PA, am i allowed to Notarize NJ documents. such as affidavits, letters or receipt of letter, simple ID letters etc? Thank you

National Notary Association

16 Jun 2015

Hello. You may notarize a document originally prepared in any state, but the signer must appear before you physically and the notarization must take place within the borders of Pennsylvania.

Warren albin

18 Jun 2015

I am a notary and a resident in NC I have to visit my mother in NY to notorize her signature for a legal form. Can I do that when I am not in NC

National Notary Association

22 Jun 2015

Hello. No, I'm sorry but you may not notarize documents outside of your state.

Jon Stuart

19 Jun 2015

I am buying a truck out of PA and i live in NY the title needs to be signed by a notery. can a NY notery sign it or do i have to have a PA notery sign it?

National Notary Association

22 Jun 2015

Hello. For that information, please contact the New York Department of Motor Vehicles for instructions: http://dmv.ny.gov

Allen

22 Jun 2015

Hello! My parents own a house in Virginia, I am a resident of New York. I was asked to sell their house, can they notarize me in NY and will it work in Virginia? Thanks

National Notary Association

07 Jul 2015

Hello. Your parents should contact their real estate agent or a qualified real estate attorney to find out if this is acceptable for the transaction.

Allen

22 Jun 2015

Hello! My parents own a house in Virginia, I am a resident of New York. I was asked to sell their house, can they notarize me in NY and will it work in Virginia? Thanks

National Notary Association

22 Jun 2015

Hello. You can have your signature notarized in New York, provided you appear before the Notary in person within the borders of New York and meet all other requirements of NY Notary law. To find out if there would be any issues with this notarization being accepted for a particular transaction, you need to contact a qualified professional authorized to advise you regarding the transaction (such as an attorney or real estate profesional) or the agency that will receive the notarized document.

jay

22 Jun 2015

i just bought a car in ny but it's from p.a. ... can a NY notary stamp the p.a. title?

National Notary Association

07 Jul 2015

Hello. You would need to contact the receiving agency to find out if they will accept the out-of-state notarization or not.

Alicia

29 Jun 2015

I'm a New York Notary, can I notarize a Declaration of Covenant and Restrictions Agreement for a Homeowner's Association for someone that lives in New York but the Covenant is for their property in North Carolina?

National Notary Association

07 Jul 2015

Hello. There is nothing preventing you from notarizing the document provided you follow all your state's laws. However, the receiving agency can still choose to reject the document even if it is lawfully notarized in your state. It is the signer's responsibility to find out if the receiving agency will accept the notarization.

bill

07 Jul 2015

someone is asking me to notarize a florida document in new york, the document says it requires a seal. but new york does not require a seal which is why i don't have one. can i still notarize?

National Notary Association

07 Jul 2015

Hello. There is nothing preventing you from notarizing the document, provided you follow your state's laws. However, this does not guarantee that the document will be accepted by the receiving agency. It is the signer's responsibility to find out if the receiving agency will accept a notarization from a state that does not require use of a seal.

Boni

07 Jul 2015

I am in Texas and a Texas resident would like for me to notarize a Missouri Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Bureau Power of Attorney Document...can I do it in my state, or does he need to do it in Missouri?

National Notary Association

08 Jul 2015

Hello. For you to notarize the signature on the document, the notarization would have to take place in Texas with the signer physically present before you, and comply with all TX Notary laws. The signer would have to contact the receiving agency to ask whether or not the agency will accept an out-of-state notarization on the document.

Rose

08 Jul 2015

Hi, I am a NJ Notary can I notarize a document for a real estate transaction in South Carolina?

National Notary Association

08 Jul 2015

Hello. Any notarizations you perform must take place within the borders of your state with the signer physically present and follow NJ Notary law.

Joe

08 Jul 2015

I am a Notary in New Jersey. May I notarize a document that is to be recorded in Pennsylvania?

National Notary Association

08 Jul 2015

Hello. Yes you may, but the signer would have to appear in person before you within the borders of New Jersey and you would have to follow New Jersey law when notarizing the signature.

Krystal

10 Jul 2015

I am a Pa resident previously working in Pa with a Pa notary. I am now still a Pa resident but working In NJ. How do I become a NJ notary? Do I just resign my PA notary and start completely from scratch in NJ? Or is it easier for me to become a notary in another state since I am already a notary in Pa?

National Notary Association

13 Jul 2015

Hello. Residents of states adjoining New Jersey may apply for a NJ Notary commission if they maintain an office or are regularly employed in NJ, so you may apply to serve as a NJ Notary without resigning your PA Notary commission. Holding a PA commission does not affect the NJ commissioning process.

Lirio

13 Jul 2015

Hello, I am a NY notary and have been asked to notarize a NY document for attendance to a NY school and the signer lives in Brazil. Can I still notarize this document without their presence?

National Notary Association

13 Jul 2015

Hello. No, I'm sorry, you may not

Danielle

14 Jul 2015

My roommate recently moved out of state. She didn't change the name on the internet bill, and we were sent a form. IT requires notarization, however she no longer lives in state to be present. Would we have to have the form notarized twice, for when we each sign? Or can one person have it notarized?

National Notary Association

15 Jul 2015

Hello. You will need to contact the agency that sent the bill to ask their preferences regarding notarization.

Jennifer

15 Jul 2015

I'm a notary in Massachusetts can i notarize a document for the state of Florida, for someone who is a resident of New Hampshire

National Notary Association

15 Jul 2015

Hello. Yes, but the signer would need to personally appear before you in Massachusetts, and the notarization would have to meet all requirements of MA Notary law.

Kelli

15 Jul 2015

I am a Notary in the State of New Jersey. Can I notarize a loan document (bank out of Pennsylvania) for a co-worker who lives in Pennsylvania?

National Notary Association

20 Jul 2015

Hello. Only if the signer physically appears before you in New Jersey for the notarization.

Becky

21 Jul 2015

If I become a notary in the state of Indiana would I be able to notarize in the state of Texas.

National Notary Association

28 Jul 2015

Hello. No, only within the borders of Texas.

Tryston

21 Jul 2015

Can I notorize a document for my husbands aunt for the selling of land in WV if I am a notary in MD?

National Notary Association

28 Jul 2015

Hello. Maryland Notaries cannot notarize outside the borders of their state, so the signer would have to personally appear before you within the borders of Maryland. While not expressly prohibited by law, the state Handbook for Notaries Public recommends against notarizing for relatives: "...to minimize personal involvement, notaries should refrain from performing official acts for members of their immediate families, even though not ordinarily under a legal duty to refrain."

Lori Koblanski

29 Jul 2015

My husband works in NJ during the week but lives in NY. He needs to have a document notarized. Can the notary at his job notarized a document for him even though his residence is in New York?

National Notary Association

30 Jul 2015

Yes, provided he appears before the Notary in person and the notarization meets all the requirements of New Jersey law.

Amber Solomon

29 Jul 2015

If I am in Colorado and need to notarize a contract with a second party over a vehicle in Missouri, how do I do that?

National Notary Association

30 Jul 2015

Hello. I'm sorry but we can't advise you with legal advice regarding contracts. You would need to contact an attorney for assistance.

Ms. Johnnie M.

30 Jul 2015

I was a resident in South Carolina when I got my notary and have now moved to North Carolina. Can I still notarize documents in North Carolina? Or do I need to be (physically) in South Carolina to notarize things?

National Notary Association

30 Jul 2015

Hello. No, you cannot notarize documents in North Carolina or retain a South Carolina Notary commission. South Carolina requires Notaries to be registered voters in the state to hold a commission. You will need to resign your SC commission and apply for a new commission in North Carolina to resume duties as a Notary.

Jeremiah

03 Aug 2015

I have obtained a notary certificate in Arizona. I will be moving to California in a few months. Can I transfer my certificate or do I have to go through the process again? How many states can you be certified in at the same time?

National Notary Association

03 Aug 2015

Hello. Notary commissions are not transferable. You would need to resign your CA commission and re-apply when you move to Arizona. There is no set number of Notary commissions a person may hold because commissioning restrictions are set by each state individually. State residency requirements for a Notary commission vary. Some states only allow residents to apply for a commission. Others permit individuals living out-of-state to apply for commissions, but may limit applications to residents of bordering states or persons who have a place of business in the commissioning state.

Sean

04 Aug 2015

Hi, My client is in Texas. She needs to have a document prepared in (and to be recorded in) Pennsylvania notarized. Will she be able to have a TX notary notarize the document, and then will that be a legal notarization for recording in Pennsylvania? Thank you!

National Notary Association

04 Aug 2015

Hello. In order for a TX Notary to notarize the document, the signer would have to appear in person before the Notary within the borders of TX and the notarization would have to meet all requirements of TX law. The signer should contact the receiving agency in PA prior to the notarization to ask if the agency will accept an out-of-state notarization.

Timothy Mann

05 Aug 2015

I live in Oregon. I received a charge by a police officer, but it was signed by another person "for (the officers name)". Is that legal, ethical or whatever?? Thanks in advance!-

National Notary Association

07 Aug 2015

Hello. I'm sorry, but that's a legal question rather than a notarization issue. You would need to consult with an attorney to answer this question.

Javier

07 Aug 2015

I’m a Virginia Notary and permanently work in Virginia, but frequently work at our Maryland office since its close in distance. As a VA Notary, can I notarize while temporarily working at our Maryland office? Thanks.

National Notary Association

07 Aug 2015

Hello. Virginia Notaries may notarize a traditional paper document outside the state's borders only if the document is intended to be used in the Commonwealth of Virginia or by the U.S. federal government. Otherwise, a traditional paper document must be notarized within Virginia's borders. The Commonwealth of Virginia has separate rules for becoming an electronic Notary and notarizing electronic documents. For more information on Virginia eNotarizations, please see https://commonwealth.virginia.gov/official-documents/notary-commissions/.

Javier

07 Aug 2015

I’m a Virginia Notary and permanently work in Virginia, but frequently work at our Maryland office since its close in distance. As a VA Notary, can I notarize while temporarily working at our Maryland office? Thanks.

National Notary Association

11 Aug 2015

Hello. Virginia Notaries may only notarize documents outside of Virginia if the document is intended to be used in Virginia or by the U.S. government. (COV 47.1-13[B]).

Rosemary Khosrovani

11 Aug 2015

I am a Notary in Massachusetts. May I notarize a document that is to be recorded in Rhode Island?

National Notary Association

11 Aug 2015

Hello. Yes, provided the signer appears in person before you in Massachusetts and all other requirements of MA law are met for the notarial act. Please note that it is the signer's responsibility to confirm whether or not the receiving agency will accept a document notarized in a different state.

Rebecca Brown

12 Aug 2015

I've just moved and my notary license is still active. Can I transfer my notary powers from state to state?

National Notary Association

12 Aug 2015

Hello. No, I'm afraid Notary commissions do not transfer between states. You would need to resign your previous commission and apply for a new one.

Joanne

19 Aug 2015

I am a Baltimore County, Maryland Notary. Can I notarize documents in Virginia or DC

National Notary Association

20 Aug 2015

Hello. No, only within the borders of Maryland.

Melissa

20 Aug 2015

I am a NY notary and a friend of mine, who is a NY resident, has to have documents notarized that has to be sent overseas. Am I allowed to notarize this document?

National Notary Association

21 Aug 2015

Hello. Yes, provided the notarial act requested meets all requirements of your state's Notary laws.

Rachel

24 Aug 2015

I live in Ohio, and I was wondering if I typed a document up and had my boyfriend's aunt sign it, would it be legal? Would it still count in court?

National Notary Association

25 Aug 2015

Hello. That's a legal question that would have to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Geri rose

25 Aug 2015

My best friend is wanting to send her son love with me she lives in fl and I love in va can we get a power of attorney notarized in both states or do we both need to be presant when notaring the papers

National Notary Association

26 Aug 2015

Hello. I'm sorry, but any questions regarding whether you can use a power of attorney for a document related to a minor's residence would be legal questions that we aren't authorized to answer. You would need to speak with a qualified attorney about this.

chelesea j bartow/stotts

28 Aug 2015

i am a wyoming notary and my i was asked to notarize a will for some people who live in the state of oklahoma am i allowed to do that?

National Notary Association

01 Sep 2015

Hello. Yes, you may notarize a document prepared in another state but the signers would need to appear before you in person in Wyoming, provide you with specific instructions as to what type of notarial act they need and the notarization would have to meet all requirements of Wyoming notarial law.

Adrienne Martin

01 Sep 2015

Hello. I live in Virginia, and I am trying to fill out paperwork that will be filed in Florida. Will the paperwork be accepted if it is notarized here in Virginia instead of Florida?

National Notary Association

02 Sep 2015

Hello Adrienne. That depends on the agency in Florida who is receiving the documents-it's their choice. If the signer has any concerns about this, the signer should contact the receiving agency to find out if there will be any issues with an out-of-state notarization.

Angie

01 Sep 2015

As a notary for the state of WV, can I notarize documents in the state of Ohio?

National Notary Association

02 Sep 2015

Hello. No, you may only notarize within the borders of West Virginia.

Laura

02 Sep 2015

I am a notary in the State of Ohio and have moved to Indiana. Can I transfer my notary to Indiana, or do I have to start at the beginning and go thru the process all over?

National Notary Association

03 Sep 2015

Hello. No, Notary commissions are not transferable between states. You would have to apply for a new commission in Indiana.

Giana

07 Sep 2015

I am a notary in Florida and someone wants me to notarize a resignation of a will for her Aunt who lives in North Carolina, is this possible??

National Notary Association

09 Sep 2015

Hello. A Florida Notary can only notarize within the boundaries of the state. The signer would have to bring the document and appear before you in person in Florida.

Mike

09 Sep 2015

I'm in Pennsylvania. I want to bid a project in New York State and the bid docs call for a NYS Notary. Do you think I could find a NYS licensed Notary in Wilkes-Barre or Scranton, PA?

National Notary Association

09 Sep 2015

Hello. No, you would have to go to New York in order to have an NY-commissioned Notary notarize your documents. A NY-commissioned Notary may only perform duties within the boundaries of the state.

Sara

09 Sep 2015

I'm commisioned in NC. I traveled to see family in PA. Am I able to notorize a document while in PA?

Hello.

10 Sep 2015

Hello. No, you may only notarize within the borders of North Carolina.

Sara

10 Sep 2015

I'm commisioned in NC. I traveled to see family in PA. Am I able to notorize a document while in PA?

National Notary Association

14 Sep 2015

Hello. No, North Carolina Notaries may only notarize within the borders of their own state.

Joanne Carlton

14 Sep 2015

I am a notary in RI...can I notarize a Massachusetts document for someone if they come to me??

National Notary Association

14 Sep 2015

Hello. Yes, provided that the notarization requested meets all requirements of Rhode Island law.

Katharine H

15 Sep 2015

I am a GA notary. A friend who lives in GA is buying a piece of land in TN from my father, who also lives in TN. If both people are in GA when they sign a promisory note, can I notarize the document? Thank you

National Notary Association

15 Sep 2015

Hello. The signers should contact a real estate attorney to find out if the document requires notarization and if there are any special instructions before you notarize.

Susan

16 Sep 2015

If a RI resident and notary takes a job in MA, can they become a Non-Resident MA notary?

National Notary Association

16 Sep 2015

Hello. Yes, out-of-state residents who conduct business on a regular basis within Massachusetts may apply for a Notary commission there.

Eve Sierra

20 Sep 2015

Hello, I have been a notary in Florida for 26 years and I am planning to move to Massachusetts soon. Is there some kind of reciprocity or do I need to apply for a Mass notary and let my FL one lapse? The FL one is coming due soon. Thank you for your help! Eve

National Notary Association

21 Sep 2015

Hello. No, there's no commission reciprocity. You would need to resign your FL commission and apply for a new commission when you relocate to MA.

sarah

23 Sep 2015

I am a CT notary, can I notarize in NY? I work in both states and live in CT.

National Notary Association

24 Sep 2015

Hello. No, CT Notaries may not notarize outside the state. The only exception is that attorneys admitted to the CT bar may notarize acknowledgments of any instrument pertaining to real property located in Connecticut or a power of attorney outside the state. (CGS 1-30, 1-31 and 1-31a)

Marilyn

24 Sep 2015

Can a IL Notary notarize a document for family member in Ky.

National Notary Association

25 Sep 2015

Hello. The signer would have to appear before you in person in Illinois and the notarization would have to meet all requirements of IL law.

Sam

02 Oct 2015

Is it true that a stamp is acceptable for documents filed in your state, and that seals are required if the document is being filed out of state? Just looking for clarification. Thanks! (I'm in NY if it is state specific)

National Notary Association

02 Oct 2015

Hello. The term "seal" can refer either to an ink stamp or an embosser. In New York,Notaries are not required to use either an ink stamp and embosser when notarizing. However, you are required to print, typewrite or stamp in black ink the following information beneath your signature on the notarial certificate: Your name; "Notary Public State of New York"; the name of the county where you originally qualified for your commission; your commission expiration date; and wherever required the county where your official certificate of character is filed. (Executive Law Section 137)

Jane Yu

05 Oct 2015

I am a NJ resident, can I have my Will notarized by a NY state Notary. Thanks.

National Notary Association

05 Oct 2015

Hello. We're sorry, but advice on the prepration of a will is a legal question we're not authorized to answer. Because the requirements for individual wills can be complex and can be affected by many factors, you should contact an attorney for assistance in determining if your will can or should be notarized.

Adriana

06 Oct 2015

I am a notary in California, at my work we deal with a lot of documents from other States that require notarization-do I need to substitute my Notary acknowledgment or can I use the Notary acknowledgment/verbiage on the out of state document?

National Notary Association

13 Oct 2015

You can only use out-of-state acknowledgment wording if the document will be filed outside California and the wording does not asked you to do anything prohibited under CA law. For more details, please see this article: http://www.nationalnotary.org/notary-bulletin/blog/2015/02/q-a-how-to-ca-notary-wording

Melissa

06 Oct 2015

I am a notary in the state of Florida can I notarize divorce papers?

National Notary Association

08 Oct 2015

Hello. Yes, provided the notarial act requested by the signer is permitted under Florida law and meets all state requirements for notarization.

Scott

12 Oct 2015

I'm employed by my uncle in Massachusetts. Would I be able to notarize documents pertaining to the business? (Typically lien waivers and applications for payment)

National Notary Association

15 Oct 2015

Hello. In MA, a Notary may not notarize if the Notary “is a spouse, domestic partner, parent, guardian, child, or sibling of the principal, including in-law, step, or half relatives, except where such persons witness a will or other legal document prepared by the notary public who is an attorney licensed in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts” (EO Sec. 6[a][7])

Chris

14 Oct 2015

I need to send a Georgia power of attorney document to someone in Brazil. What is the best way for the person in Brazil to have this document notarized and still be legally binding in the state of Georgia

National Notary Association

14 Oct 2015

Hello. We're sorry, but we can't give legal advice regarding preparation of documents. You will need to contact an attorney for advice on what requirements are needed to make your POA legally binding.

LATRICIA HARDY

14 Oct 2015

Can a Maryland notary notaries in Maryland, the DC mortgage loan documents with one of the parties having a power of attorney, but without the poa being present and to be file in DC.

National Notary Association

15 Oct 2015

Hello, Latricia. It sounds like we would need to know a few more details before we can answer your question. Please contact our Hotline team at hotline@nationalnotary.org or 1-888-876-6827 and provide more details about the notarization request, they should be able to assist you. Thanks!

Nick

21 Oct 2015

I am signing an irrevocable trust agreement as sole the trustee. My parents are the Grantors. The document was created and signed by my parents in New York State (where they live). Could a New Jersey notary notarize this document? Thanks

National Notary Association

21 Oct 2015

Hello Nick. Regarding your question, there are a couple of points you should be aware of: 1. In order for a New Jersey Notary to notarize this document, the signer(s) would have to appear in person before the Notary in New Jersey and the notarization would have to meet all requirements of New Jersey state law. 2. Even if the notarization meets NJ requirements, it's possible that the agency receiving the document may still have an issue with an out-of-state notarization. You should consult an attorney or contact the receiving agency to find out if an out-of-state notarization would cause any issues.

Chelda

22 Oct 2015

I am a Florida notary. Can I notarized duplicate marriage form from Taxes

National Notary Association

23 Oct 2015

Hello. No, Florida Notaries may not certify copies of vital records such as marriage certificates from Florida or other states if a copy can be issued by the office that holds the original public record. (FS 117.05[12][a]). The signer would need to contact the records office in TX that holds the original marriage certificate and ask them to issue a certified copy.

Brielle

02 Nov 2015

Hello, I am a NJ resident, but work in NY. I am looking to become a notary in NY, but we also conduct business in NJ. Can I be licesnsed in both states and, if I were to leave my position in NY, would I still be able to notarize documents for New York?

National Notary Association

04 Nov 2015

Hello. An applicant who lives outside the state of NY, but is employed or has a place of business in NY, may qualify for a New York Notary commission. So yes, it would be possible for you to be commissioned in NJ and NY if you meet all other requirements for both states. However, if you left your position in NY, you would no longer qualify to serve as a New York Notary Public.

James

05 Nov 2015

As a basic PA Notary is there any issue with notarizing a transfer of ATV title (not mine) or does DMV have to be involved?

Martha Howe

14 Nov 2015

I am a notary in Florida can I sign paper work from out of state?

National Notary Association

16 Nov 2015

Hi Martha. You may notarize a signature on a document prepared in another state, but the signer must personally appear before you in Florida and the notarial act requested must meet all requirements of Florida law. Hope that helps!

Patricia

17 Nov 2015

Can I notarize documents for my aunt's business for the state of Texas.

National Notary Association

17 Nov 2015

Hi Patricia. There is no specific prohibition in Texas against notarizing a relative's signature. However, if you are a party to the document, named in the document or would receive some sort of benefit or financial gain from the document in question,another Notary should perform the notarization.

Hannah

27 Nov 2015

I am in TN and trying to get notarized. Is it okay to get in georgia, or just any different county in Tn would be fine?

National Notary Association

30 Nov 2015

Hello. You would need to contact the receiving agency to find out if they have any special requirements regarding where the document is notarized. Please be aware that if you wish to have a Notary from another state notarize your signature on the document, you would have to travel to that state and appear in person before the Notary.

Shawn

08 Dec 2015

May you have notary commissions in Texas and Oklahoma at the same time?

National Notary Association

11 Dec 2015

Hello. Yes, but only under two conditions: 1. If you are a resident of Texas employed in Oklahoma, or 2. If you are an escrow agent who resides in Oklahoma and apply for a Texas Notary commission using the Form 2301-E from the TX SOS website and post a $10,000 surety bond from a surety company authorized to do business in the state of Texas.

Tina

09 Dec 2015

I live and work in North Carolina, and am a notary in North Carolina. if I move to South Carolina but continue to work in North Carolina, can I retain my North Carolina notary and continue to only notarize documents in North Carolina?

National Notary Association

11 Dec 2015

Hello. Non-residents of North Carolina may qualify as Notaries if they have a regular place of work or business in the state (GS 10B- 5[c]). Non-residents must submit a proof of employment statement from their employer on company letterhead. You should contact the North Carolina Secretary of State at 919-807-2219 to find out if you will be required to resign your current commission and apply for a new one once you move, or if you can keep your current commission and submit a change of address notification.

Anne Coates

14 Sep 2016

I am a Notary in VA, can I notarize divorce papers that will be filed in VA?

National Notary Association

14 Sep 2016

Yes, provided the notarial act requested is lawful and the notarization meets all requirements of Virginia law.

Barrie

16 Sep 2016

I want to become a Notray. I live in PA and work in NY. Most of my Notary work would be for my Mnahattan office. Can I just get my license in PA and do both or is it better to become a NY Notary?

National Notary Association

16 Sep 2016

Hello Barrie. A PA commission only authorizes you to notarize within the borders of Pennsylvania. To perform notarizations in New York, you would need to apply for a NY commission.

Lauren

20 Oct 2016

My company is based out of Philadelphia. The company owns a property in NJ. Am I allowed to notarize documents at our NJ property?

National Notary Association

20 Oct 2016

Hello. No, a PA commission only authorizes you to perform notarizations within the borders of Pennsylvania.

Logan

25 Oct 2016

I'm a notary in VA, I have a friend who lives here in VA who has asked me to notarize his mom's will and she lives in NY. Iv'e done wills before having worked for a lawyer usually the original is signed and notarized in the presence of whom the will is for on the original and copies are made if need be. how do i go about telling him what he should do if i in fact can't notarize this documentation

National Notary Association

25 Oct 2016

Hello. As a Notary, you are not authorized to give legal advice regarding preparing a last will and testament. If you cannot notarize a document then the signer will have to contact a qualified attorney for instructions on how to proceed.

Annette

31 Oct 2016

I have two residences.. one in Texas and one in sc. can I get a commission in sc as well? Also if I get a sc commission am I able to authorize nc documents?

National Notary Association

02 Nov 2016

Hello Annette. In order to apply for a commission in South Carolina, you must be a registered voter in that state (SCC26-1-15).

Hazel

20 Nov 2016

I am a notary in the state of Flordia, can I notary in sc

National Notary Association

21 Nov 2016

Hello. No, Florida Notaries are not authorized to perform notarizations in South Carolina.

kelly

11 Jan 2017

I would like to know if a SC quit claim Deed be notarized and in Sc and filed in GA, Thank You

National Notary Association

12 Jan 2017

Hello. You may wish to contact the Georgia recording office the deed is being submitted to in order to find out if they would accept such a document.

Gwen Griffith

02 Feb 2017

Hello: If I become a notary in CT, can I notorize documents in NY state? I live on the border, and will be doing most of the notorizing in NYS. My understanding is that I can notorize a NY document, but only physically notorize it in CT. And I believe I can only be notorized in the state in which I live. Thanks

National Notary Association

02 Feb 2017

Hi Gwen. You may only notarize documents within the borders of Connecticut. A CT Notary is not authorized to notarize documents in New York state.

Troy

06 Feb 2017

I am about to enter into an agreement with an adjacent land owner allowing an encroachment onto my property in Florida. The other party is a Florida Corporation, but the authorized signor is in Canada. This document will be recorded. Will a Canadian notary and witnesses be accepted in Florida?

National Notary Association

07 Feb 2017

Hello. That depends on the preferences of the receiving agency. You would need to contact them directly to find out if they will accept this, or if they have any additional requirements.

Latepha Mitchell

02 Mar 2017

I'm a notary in the state of South Carolina. However i recently moved to North Carolina do i need to get certified in North Carolina in order to continue notarizing documents?

National Notary Association

02 Mar 2017

Hello. Yes, you will need to resign your South Carolina commission and apply for a new one in North Carolina.

Diana

21 Mar 2017

May I Notarize in state of Texas a bill of sale on property from Colorado?

National Notary Association

23 Mar 2017

Hi Diana. You may notarize a document from another state, provided the signer appears with the document in person before you in Texas, and the notarization requested meets all the requirements of Texas law.

Courtney

17 Apr 2017

May I have a Rhode Island notary who is in business in Utah, Notarize a document in Utah and file it in the state of Rhode Island?

National Notary Association

17 Apr 2017

Hello. A Notary commissioned in Rhode Island may only perform notarizations within the borders of Rhode Island, not in Utah.

Dianne Pait

21 Apr 2017

My aunt that resides in Georgia is leaving me and my brother all her properties, monies, etc in her will. She is bringing it to NC for me to sign and get notarized here in the state of NC. Can we do this or do I have to travel to the state of Georgia and get it done in the state in which she resides?

National Notary Association

21 Apr 2017

Hi Dianne. Because a will is a complex legal document, you should contact a qualified attorney to find out if the will requires any special instructions regarding notarization.

Cynthia Ochoa

17 May 2017

I am a notary public commissioned in NYC. can i notarize a letter of invitation address to the US Embassy in Manila for purposes of Visa issuance?

National Notary Association

18 May 2017

Hello. Can you tell us what type of notarial act is being requested?

Jordan

20 May 2017

Hi I worked for my employer in NJ whom required me to get a notary license. I currently work and live in PA. Can I notarize documents for my customers here in PA.

National Notary Association

23 May 2017

Hi Jordan. It depends what state issued your Notary commission. You would not be able to use a New Jersey Notary commission in PA. However, if your Notary commissioned was issued in PA, you may notarize in Pennsylvania.

Darleen

17 Jun 2017

I have recently been commissioned as a notary in SC. My boss is in Atlanta & wants me to notarize his signature on documents without my witnessing him sign. Is it illegal to do so?

National Notary Association

19 Jun 2017

Hello. If your boss is asking you to perform an acknowledgment for his signature, he does not have to sign the document in your presence, but must physically appear before you with the signed document. If he is asking you to perform a jurat where he would take an oath or affirmation, then he must sign the document in your presence. Both acts require your boss to physically appear in person before you when the notarization is performed. It is a misdemeanor for a South Carolina Notary to take an acknowledgment or to administer an oath or affirmation without the principal appearing in person before the Notary (SCC 26-1-160[B]. This type of misdemeanor carries a penalty of a fine of up to $500, imprisonment for up to 30 days or both. If convicted of such a crime, the Notary must forfeit his or her commission and will not be issued another one (SCC 26-1-60[G] and [H]).

iraidap721@gmail.com

21 Jun 2017

I am a FL notary. Can I notarize a document from South Africa? I recognize I am only notarizing the signature, not the document but I am unfamiliar with the fields directly underneath where I am to notarize and I'm not sure if they pertain to me as South Africa may have other requirements. The fields are as follows: First name/Surname/Capacity/Place/Contact Number The document itself is Department of Home Affairs Republic of South Africa. The purpose is for a father to travel to S. Africa on vacation with his child, a minor.

National Notary Association

21 Jun 2017

Hello. You may notarize the document, but the customer needs to tell you what type of notarization he requires, such as an acknowledgment or jurat. If the customer is unsure what notarial act is needed, he should contact the agency requesting the document for instructions. Once the customer instructs you what type of notarization is wanted, If the document does not include the appropriate certificate wording required by your state, you would need to complete and attach the appropriate certificate wording for the requested act.

Diana

27 Jun 2017

Can a wife notarize a legal document for her husband? They live in Kentucky and the legal form is State of Georgia.

National Notary Association

29 Jun 2017

Hello. Kentucky's Notary Public Handbook states: “There is no specific prohibition against notarizing for a family member. A notary should probably avoid the practice, however, to avoid any possible challenges based upon allegations of bias, conflict of interest or other impropriety.”

Sharon

03 Jul 2017

Can a lawyer base in Guam notarized a Guam adoption document in North Carolina?

National Notary Association

03 Jul 2017

Hello. If the lawyer holds a Guam Notary commission, the commission may only be used in Guam.

Jessica

17 Jul 2017

I have divorce papers from ky that my soon to be ex has signed and notarized and sent to me in fl for me to sign and notarize. Can I get them notarizee in the state of fl or do i need to go to ky?

National Notary Association

18 Jul 2017

Hello. We're sorry, but you would need to speak to a qualified attorney to find out if there are any special requirements regarding notarization of your divorce papers.

Kristin

17 Aug 2017

I have my notary from SC. I recently moved to PA, however, my job is still SC based. When I go to the office (SC) can I still notarize for them?

National Notary Association

22 Aug 2017

Hello. If you no longer live in South Carolina, you may not hold a South Carolina Notary Commission. “A notary who ceases to reside in this State, or who becomes permanently unable to perform his notarial duties, shall resign his commission and submit to the Secretary a Change in Status Form indicating the effective date of resignation” (SCC 26-1-140[B]).

Terry

08 Sep 2017

I am a notary in the State of Delaware. Am I able to notarize a loan document for a friend in Pennsylvania?

National Notary Association

13 Sep 2017

Hello. No, you may not notarize outside the borders of your own state.

Jim

30 Oct 2017

Hi. My parents have a POA that is created in Florida, as they are Florida residents. For health reasons, I've had to move them to their home state of Virginia. Can a VA notary notarize a FL resident POA?

National Notary Association

30 Oct 2017

Hello. Because powers of attorney are complex legal documents, you may wish to check with an attorney to see if there are any issues regarding having the document notarized in another state.

Martha Rondon

08 Jan 2018

Hi, I want to be do notaries in Maryland but I live in DC. I work at a UPS business store and my boss would like if I could do notary services in Maryland though I reside in Washington, DC.

National Notary Association

08 Jan 2018

Hello. Out-of-state residents who work in Maryland may become Notaries (ACM St. Gov. 18-101). However, only residents of states which reciprocally allow Maryland residents to become Notaries may qualify as Maryland Notaries.

Stacy

01 Feb 2018

I am an Ohio notary. Can I notarize a car title in the state of Indiana if that title will later be recorded in Ohio?

National Notary Association

02 Feb 2018

Hello. No, you may not use an Ohio commission outside your own state.

Tammy Cannady

02 Feb 2018

I am a notary in Kentucky, can I notarize documents for someone in Indiana?

National Notary Association

02 Feb 2018

Hello. In order to notarize outside the state's borders, you would have to apply for a Kentucky Special Notary Commission to notarize documents outside the state, but you would only be allowed to do so for documents that will be recorded in Kentucky. (KRS 423.110[6]).

Donna

30 Mar 2018

I am a notary in Georgia and issuing a preliminary notice (notice to owner) on a private commercial project in California on the appropriate California form, can this form be completed, signed, and notarized in Georgia or does such a notice need to be completed in California?

National Notary Association

02 Apr 2018

Hello Donna. That would depend on the requirements of the agency receiving the document. You should contact the receiving agency or a qualified attorney to ask for instructions.

Kristi

23 Apr 2018

Can a Georgia notary notarize South Carolina documents? For example, I need to renew a passport for a minor and the father is unable to attend. Can they notarize Issuance of a US Passport to a Minor Under Age 16? Can they also notarize business documents out of state?

National Notary Association

23 Apr 2018

Hello. Georgia Notaries are only authorized to notarize documents within the borders of their state-you may not travel outside the state to notarize documents. Since you have questions about a specific U.S. government document, we recommend that you contact our Hotline Team at hotline@nationalnotary.org for additional assistance.

Jennifer

26 Apr 2018

Can a Louisiana notary notarize an Oklahoma small estate affidavit form that is to be filed in Oklahoma?

National Notary Association

26 Apr 2018

Hello. It would be up to the receiving agency whether or not they would accept this document. Since Louisiana Notaries have significantly different training and duties than Notaries in other states, the signer may wish to contact the agency that will receive the form to confirm if they will accept a document notarized in Louisiana.

Deana Coker

13 May 2018

I am a notary in KY. I have a friend coming to buy a car he lives in Alabama. Can I notarize the car title for him to take back to alabama.

National Notary Association

15 May 2018

Hello. We're sorry, but we cannot give readers advice or answer questions regarding how to process car titles. Your friend would need to contact the appropriate motor vehicle department for instructions.

Chritine

14 May 2018

I am a California Notary and I was asked to do a jurat notary on a North Caroline document that did not follow California jurat standards. When I told the client that I had to use a California jurat form for the Notary and that I could not sign and use the North Carolina jurat form he became very angry with me. Is my understanding correct in that I must use a California Jurat form in this case, and not just signed the form from North Carolina?

National Notary Association

15 May 2018

Hello. Yes, you were correct. California Notaries may not use out-of-state jurat certificate wording. All jurats and proofs of execution performed by California Notaries must use the certificate wording exactly as prescribed by CA state law. For more information, please see here: https://www.nationalnotary.org/notary-bulletin/blog/2017/06/what-california-notaries-need-to-know-about-notary-certificates

Casey

02 Jul 2018

I live in NY but need to prepare papers to transfer my property in Texas. Can I get the papers (deeds, etc.) notarized in NY to be recorded in TX?

National Notary Association

02 Jul 2018

Hello. We would recommend contacting the agency you are submitting the papers to and asking if they will accept a NY notarization and if they have any special instructions regarding the notarization.

Anantha

16 Jul 2018

Hi, I'm residing in India and i need to send a notarized refund check to NCDOR. Can I get it notarized in India?

National Notary Association

17 Jul 2018

Hello. Based on what you’ve described, we think it would be best if you contacted our Hotline team by email and provided them with a more detailed description of the situation. The Hotline email is hotline@nationalnotary.org. If you’re not an NNA Member or Hotline Subscriber, they will provide you with a one-time courtesy answer.

Carmen Anderson

18 Jul 2018

Can I have a VA notary notarize a POA if I reside in DC? I am willing to travel to VA

National Notary Association

18 Jul 2018

Hi Carmen. You may request a Virginia Notary to notarize the document, provided the notarization requested meets all requirements of Virginia Notary law. If the document is going to be used by the U.S. government or in the state of Virginia, a Virginia Notary may notarize it in the District of Columbia. Otherwise the document must be notarized within the borders of Virginia (COV 47.1-13[A] and [B]).

christine

10 Sep 2018

Can I type of a POA letter, have it notarized in Texas and mail to my brother in Pennsylvania to get a certified copy of my birth certificate? I need it for a cruise and have ordered it but it's taking too long to get here?

National Notary Association

11 Sep 2018

Hello. You would need to contact the recording office that holds the original birth certificate in order to ask how to get an expedited copy.

Thor

16 Oct 2018

Can I get a document notarized in Florida, to be executor of a will & power of attorney in another state, Louisiana?

National Notary Association

17 Oct 2018

Hello. Those are legal questions that would need to be answered by a qualified attorney.

Paul Fay

18 Apr 2019

I am a NYS notary but work in NJ. Can I notarize a NYS document to be filed in NYS even though I am physically located in NJ?

National Notary Association

22 Apr 2019

Hello Paul. You would only be able to perform notarizations when you are physically located within the borders of New York State.

Donna

10 Oct 2019

Good morning, ? I have a Parish license to notary till death. I also have been asked to notarized for a client in my parish to Mississippi. Am I legal to do so? I’ve been licensed bonded and insured.

National Notary Association

14 Oct 2019

Based on what you’ve described, we think it would be best if you contacted our Hotline team by phone and provided them with a more detailed description of the situation. The NNA Hotline: 1-888-876-0827 Mon – Fri: 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (PT) Saturday: 5:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (PT) If you’re not an NNA Member or Hotline Subscriber, they will provide you with a one-time courtesy call.

Sherry Hancock

03 Feb 2020

I am a NC notary, but recently started working in VA. Is my notary sufficient, or can I hold VA and NC at the same time?

National Notary Association

06 Feb 2020

Hello. You may not use your North Carolina commission in Virginia. However, if you work in Virginia, you may be able to apply for a VA Notary commission if you meet all other requirements to serve as a Notary in Virginia.

Karen

12 Feb 2020

If I live in Utah where my notary is based but work in Arizona can I notarize in Arizona for my job?

National Notary Association

13 Feb 2020

Hello. No, you may only notarize within the borders of Utah.

Jessica

19 Aug 2020

I am looking into becoming a notary for work. I live in VA, but i have officers of the company that live and work in our offices in other states (FL & IL). Would I be able to hold notary for all 3 states since my company has offices there?

National Notary Association

20 Aug 2020

Hello. If you are a resident of Virginia, you would not be eligible to apply for either a Florida or Illinois Notary commission. Florida requires applicants to be be Florida residents, and Illinois requires applicants to be Illinois residents or qualifying residents of a bordering state.

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