WHAT TO BRING TO A NOTARY PUBLIC MEETING

MEETING CHECKLIST

What to Bring to your Notary Appointment

If you are coming to work with us, please review the checklist below for what to bring to the meeting.

Valid Government-Issued Photo ID

You must prove your identity. Bring one of the following:

• Driver’s license
• Passport
• Provincial/territorial photo ID card
• Permanent resident card
• Canadian citizenship card (with photo)
• Status card or government employee ID (if applicable)

Your ID must be current (not expired), include your full legal name, photo, and signature.

The Document to Be Notarized

• Bring the original document that needs notarization.
• Do not sign it ahead of time — the notary must witness your signature.
• If it’s a multi-page document, bring all pages, even if only one is being notarized.

Other Parties (If Required)

• If other people also need to sign (e.g., a spouse or witness), they should attend with you, each with valid ID.

Supporting Documents (If Applicable)

• Depending on the type of document, bring:
  • Marriage certificate (for spousal affidavits)
  • Title or ownership papers (for real estate)
  • Court documents (for affidavits or declarations)
  • Travel itinerary or child’s birth certificate (for travel consent letters)

Payment

Most notaries charge a flat fee or per document (e.g., $25–$60).

Bring cash, debit, or credit, depending on the notary’s policy.

Optional but Helpful:

• A copy of the document for your records.
• Any pre-filled information (typed or written), except the signature.
• A list of questions if you’re unsure about the process (note: notaries can’t give legal advice unless they’re also lawyers).

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Don’t sign the document before arriving.
• Don’t bring photocopies of ID instead of originals.
• Don’t forget documents that are referenced or attached.