Can I Notarize Documents In Other States Or Countries?

One of the most common questions Notaries ask is whether they can perform a notarization in a state other than where they are commissioned or even outside the United States. The answer is not a simple yes or no. In this video, we'll highlight different scenarios to help you determine what applies to your particular situation.

ABOUT NOTARIZATIONS OUTSIDE YOUR STATE AND THE COUNTRY
1. Can I notarize in other states?
Generally, most Notaries are only permitted to notarize in the state where they are commissioned. A few states will allow notarizations across state lines in very specific situations and sometimes only for specific documents. It's very important to familiarize yourself with the laws of your own state to know if your state allows out-of-state notarizations, and if so, in what situations.

2. Can I transfer my commission to another state?
If you hold a Notary commission in one state, and move out of that state, your commission is not transferrable. When moving, you must resign your commission. Requirements vary, so be sure to check with your Secretary of State to make sure you resign properly without penalty.

3. Can I notarize in foreign countries?
Your Notary commission issued by a U.S. State does not permit you to notarize outside the United States. Some active service military personnel are authorized to notarize documents for military members and their families stationed on bases outside the United States. In addition, federal law authorizes U.S. Foreign Service and consular agents to notarize documents abroad.
Unless you fall into one of these categories, you may not notarize documents in foreign countries.

4. Can I hold commissions in more than one state?
In these cases, it’s sometimes possible to hold two commissions: One for the state you live in and another for the state you work in. But make sure you meet the eligibility requirements in both jurisdictions.

Because this is not an option in all states, it's important to confirm the eligibility requirements in any state where you want to become a Notary.

5. How does remote online notarization affect where I can notarize?
Statutes allowing remote notarizations, or sometimes called webcam notarizations, have been enacted in many U.S. States. These laws allow commissioned Notaries to complete signings using audiovisual tools via the Internet without the in-person requirement. The signer can be in a different state from the Notary performing the act, but the Notary is required to physically be in the state where they are commissioned to perform a remote notarization.



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