To notarize a document, you bring it unsigned along with a valid photo ID, sign it in front of a notary, and the notary verifies your identity, witnesses the signature, and applies their stamp. That’s the whole process, and it takes minutes. The only real decisions are which type of notary to use and making sure you don’t sign too early. Here is exactly how to notarize a document in NYC, step by step.
1 The steps
- Leave it unsigned. The notary must witness the signature, so do not sign in advance.
- Bring valid ID. A current, unexpired government photo ID.
- Meet the notary. In person, at your location, or online over video.
- Sign in front of them. They confirm your identity and watch you sign.
- Get the stamp. The notary applies their seal and records the act.
2 What you need
You need three things: the unsigned document, a valid unexpired government photo ID, and yourself present in person or on camera. If the document has fields to fill in, complete everything except the signature beforehand. If there are multiple signers, everyone signing needs their own ID and must be present.
3 Where to get it done
In NYC you have three routes. Go to a notary in person at a bank, shipping store, or office. Have a mobile notary come to your home, office, or hospital. Or use a remote online notary and skip the trip entirely. For help choosing, see how to find a notary near you.
4 Notarizing online
New York allows remote online notarization, so many documents can be notarized over secure video without going anywhere. You join a video call, show your ID, sign electronically, and the notary applies a digital seal. It is capped at $25 per act in New York and is often the fastest option, as long as the party receiving your document accepts remote online notarization.
5 Mistakes to avoid
- Signing before you meet the notary, this usually means starting over.
- Bringing an expired ID, or no ID at all.
- Leaving required fields blank that should be filled in first.
- Assuming the receiver accepts online, confirm it before booking a remote session.
Need to notarize a document in NYC?
In person, mobile, or online from $25, most appointments same day across all five boroughs.
Bring it unsigned with a valid photo ID, meet a notary in person or online, sign in front of them, and they verify your identity, witness the signature, and apply their stamp.
Can I sign the document before seeing the notary?
No. The notary has to witness the signature, so bring the document unsigned.
Can I notarize a document online?
Yes. New York allows remote online notarization over secure video, capped at $25 per act, if the receiving party accepts it.
What ID do I need?
A current, unexpired government-issued photo ID, such as a driver license, state ID, or passport.
Related: what a notary public is and does and how much a notary costs in NY.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Notarization rules and fees vary by state and can change. Confirm current requirements before you rely on this.