Updated August 31, 2023
A California notary acknowledgment form is a form attached to a document that is filled out by a notary public after certifying the authenticity of the signatures therein. Documents that require an acknowledgment must be presented to a notary public, at which point the notary will certify the identity of the signer(s) and establish that the individuals did not sign under duress or coercion. The commissioned officer may identify the signer(s) personally, or they may request photo identification. To avoid any legal setbacks or obstructions, signers can sign the document in front of the notary public instead of presenting a completely signed document. The notarization is accomplished once the notary performs the aforementioned duties, and signs and dates the acknowledgment form.
Laws – § 1189
Notary Handbook – The California Notary Public Handbook is the official source for all information pertaining to commissioned officers, including laws, procedures, and guidelines.
How to Notarize in California (5 steps)
1. Find a Notary
- A bank or credit union (Wells Fargo currently has the most locations across the State of California)
- UPS Stores
- Private Notary Services
2. Appear
Verify a Notary in California (8 steps)
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
How to Write (For Notary)
Step 1 – Download the form in PDF, Microsoft Word, or ODT.
Step 2 – Enter the county in which the document was acknowledged, the date on which it was acknowledged, and the names of both the notary and signer(s).
Step 3 – Notary must include their signature and seal at the bottom of the page.