Notary FAQs.
Detailed answers to common mobile notary questions, with links to official California Secretary of State resources.
What does a mobile notary do?
A mobile notary travels to your location to perform eligible notarial acts, such as acknowledgments and jurats. The signer must appear in person with acceptable identification.
How much does a notary cost in California?
California sets a maximum notarial fee per signature or per person. The current maximum is $15 through December 31, 2026 and $20 from January 1, 2027 (AB 1597). Travel fees are separate and are disclosed and agreed before the appointment. See our pricing page for the full schedule.
What ID do I need for notarization?
California law requires satisfactory evidence of identity, typically a current government-issued photo ID. The California Notary Public Handbook details all acceptable forms of identification.
Can a notary come to my home or office?
Yes. Inkcredible is a mobile notary service. We travel to your home, office, or another agreed-upon location in San Diego County. Travel fees are disclosed and agreed before the appointment.
Can the notary choose what type of notarization I need?
No. A notary cannot select the type of notarial certificate or act for a customer, because that would be unauthorized legal advice. You, your attorney, or the receiving agency determines the required act.
Can a notary certify a photocopy of any document?
No. California notaries may certify copies of powers of attorney and their own journal entries only. They cannot certify arbitrary photocopies.
Do you offer remote online notarization?
No. California's online notarization law (SB 696) is not yet in effect for California notaries. We do not advertise remote online notarization or webcam notarization.
Do you provide legal advice?
No. Inkcredible is not a law firm. We are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice. A notary is not an attorney and cannot give legal advice about immigration or any other legal matter.
What is a thumbprint, and when is it required?
For certain documents, such as powers of attorney and real property documents, California requires the notary to record a journal entry and the signer's thumbprint, as stated in the California Notary Public Handbook.
Still have questions?
Tell us what needs notarizing and where you're located. We'll confirm the estimated total with the travel fee itemized before the appointment.