A notary appointment usually takes less than 30 minutes. The preparation before it takes even less. But showing up without the right things — or having already made a common mistake — can mean a wasted trip or a voided session. Here is what you need to bring and what to know ahead of time.
What to Bring
1. Valid Government-Issued Photo ID
This is non-negotiable. The notary is required to verify your identity, and a current, government-issued photo ID is the standard way to do it. Driver's license, state-issued ID card, and passport are all accepted. The name on your ID must match the name on the document. An expired ID is not acceptable — even if it is only a month past the date.
2. The Complete, Unsigned Document
This is the most common mistake people make: signing the document before getting to the appointment. Do not do this. The notary must witness you signing. If you have already signed, the notary cannot complete the session and the document will need to be reprinted. Bring it blank on the signature lines.
Also make sure the document is complete in every other way — names, dates, addresses all filled in. Notaries cannot make corrections to the content of a document. If something is wrong with the wording or blanks, the document needs to be corrected before the appointment.
3. All Required Signers
If multiple people need to sign the document, everyone must be present at the same time. For in-person appointments, that means everyone in the same room. For remote online notarization, everyone on the video call. Partial signings create incomplete documents.
4. Witnesses, If Required
Certain documents — wills and some healthcare directives, in particular — require one or two witnesses in addition to the notary. A notary cannot serve as a witness on a document they are also notarizing. If your document requires witnesses, bring them. Check your document's requirements before your appointment.
5. Payment
Notary fees vary depending on the service and provider. Confirm the fee in advance so you are not caught off guard. For virtual notarization, payment is typically handled online before or after the session.
What the Notary Actually Checks
A notary is verifying a few things: that you are who you say you are, that you understand what you are signing, that you are signing voluntarily (not under duress), and that the document is complete enough to be notarized. They are not reviewing the legal substance of the document — that is not their role. They are authenticating the act of signing.
Quick FAQ
Can I notarize a document over video call?
Yes. North Carolina allows remote online notarization (RON) under Senate Bill 552. The process is the same — present your ID on camera, the notary witnesses your electronic signature, and you receive a digitally sealed document.
What if my document has already been signed?
The appointment cannot proceed. You will need to reprint the document with blank signature lines and reschedule. This is why checking the document before you go is worth the extra minute.
Do I need to bring anything else?
Sometimes. If you are signing on behalf of a business or a person under a power of attorney, you may need to bring authorization documents showing you have the right to sign. Ask ahead of time if you are in this situation.
Does my ID need to be from North Carolina?
No. A valid government-issued ID from any U.S. state, or a valid U.S. passport, is acceptable. Some forms of foreign ID may also be accepted depending on the platform and the notary.
Ready to schedule your appointment?
MBP Services Corp offers same-day virtual notary appointments — no waiting rooms, no commute. Available 365 days a year.
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