Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney for guidance on specific laws regarding Remote Online Notarization (RON), digital signatures, and related legal matters. As laws concerning RON and notarization are subject to frequent changes, it is advisable to verify current regulations with your local government.
How Long Does It Take to Notarize a Document?
In most cases, notarizing a document takes 5 to 30 minutes. Traditional in-person notarization may require additional travel and wait time, bringing the total process to 30 to 60 minutes or longer. Remote Online Notarization (RON) can often be completed in under 30 minutes, including identity verification and document signing.
When you need a document notarized, one of the first things you want to know is how long it will actually take. The short answer is: it depends. The time required can vary quite a bit based on the method you choose, where you go, and how prepared you are when you arrive. Understanding your options upfront can help you plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary delays.
This guide breaks down how long it takes to notarize a document across the most common methods, including traditional in-person options and Remote Online Notarization (RON), so you can choose the approach that works best for your situation.
Factors That Affect How Long Notarization Takes
Several variables can influence how long the notarization process takes from start to finish. The method you choose, such as visiting a bank, going to a shipping store, or connecting with an online notary, tends to have the biggest impact. Beyond that, your level of preparation matters a great deal.
Having the right identification, an unsigned document, and any other required materials ready before your appointment can significantly reduce wait times. The complexity of the document and how many signers are involved can also add time, particularly when multiple parties need to be present or verified.
In-Person Notarization: What to Expect
Traditional in-person notarization typically requires visiting a physical location during business hours. The actual signing process itself tends to take just a few minutes once you are with the notary. However, the total time, including travel, waiting, and the notarization itself, can range considerably depending on where you go.
Banks and Credit Unions
Banks and credit unions are among the most common places people go for notarization services, and many offer this service to their customers at little or no cost. For in-person requests at a bank, the process generally takes around 15 to 30 minutes, though this can vary depending on how busy the branch is and whether you have a scheduled appointment. Walk-in availability may be limited, so it is worth calling ahead to confirm a notary is on duty.
Shipping and Business Centers
Locations like UPS stores often provide notary services on a walk-in basis, which can make them a convenient option. The process at these locations typically runs around 5 to 15 minutes, though wait times may be longer if there are other customers ahead of you. Fees vary by location and state, so it is a good idea to check in advance.
How Long Does Remote Online Notarization Take?
Remote Online Notarization, commonly referred to as RON, is an increasingly popular alternative to in-person notarization. With RON, signers connect with a commissioned notary through a secure audio-video platform, complete identity verification, and sign documents electronically, all without leaving home or the office.
For signers who come prepared with their document and a valid government-issued ID, the entire RON process from identity verification to completed notarization often takes under 30 minutes, and in many cases even less. Many RON platforms also offer on-demand access, meaning you may be able to connect with a notary outside of standard business hours, which can be a significant advantage for people with demanding schedules.
To use RON services, you will need a computer with webcam and audio capabilities, such as a computer or laptop, along with a reliable internet connection. Most sessions are conducted through a secure platform that also handles document storage after the signing is complete.
Platforms like NotaryCam specialize in remote online notarization and provide access to commissioned notaries for a range of document types. As with any notarization method, it is worth confirming that the platform and notary meet the requirements for your specific document and jurisdiction before you get started.
Note: RON laws vary significantly from state to state. Some states have comprehensive frameworks supporting remote notarization, while others may have restrictions or different requirements. Before using a RON platform, check with your state’s regulatory authorities and consult with an attorney familiar with notarization laws in your jurisdiction.
A Real-World Comparison: In-Person vs. RON
To make this more concrete, consider a common scenario: you need to notarize a power of attorney document and want to understand what each path actually looks like in practice.
The In-Person Path
You call your bank on Monday morning to confirm a notary is available. They can fit you in during your lunch break, so you drive over, find parking, and wait briefly in line. The notary reviews your ID, watches you sign, applies the seal, and you are done. From the time you left your desk to the time you returned, about 45 to 60 minutes have passed, including the drive each way. The notarization itself took roughly 10 minutes.
This path works well if you live or work close to your bank, a notary is available when you need one, and your schedule allows for a midday errand. For many people, those three conditions do not always line up neatly.
The RON Path
Using a RON platform for the same document, you upload the power of attorney file, complete identity verification, which may include answering a few personal questions and submitting a photo of your ID, and then join a live video session with a commissioned notary. You sign electronically while on camera, the notary applies a digital seal, and you typically receive a completed, tamper-evident document. The entire process, from uploading the file to receiving the finished document, can often take under 30 minutes. You did not leave your desk.
RON may be a strong fit for this type of scenario, though it is worth confirming that your state permits remote notarization for the specific document type and that the receiving institution will accept an electronically notarized document. Requirements can vary, so checking ahead of time is always a good idea.
When Notarization May Take Longer
While many notarizations can be completed quickly, certain situations may take longer. Documents involving multiple signers, additional identity verification steps, or specific legal requirements may extend the process. In some cases, delays can also occur if a receiving institution has strict acceptance criteria or if additional documentation is required. Planning ahead and confirming requirements in advance can help minimize these delays.
Tips to Speed Up the Notarization Process
Regardless of which method you choose, being prepared tends to make the biggest difference in how quickly the process goes. A few practical steps can help reduce unnecessary back-and-forth or delays.
- Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. Most notaries require current identification, though requirements may vary.
- Leave the signature lines blank. Signing before you appear before the notary, in person or online, may invalidate the notarization.
- Fill out all other required fields on the document before your appointment.
- Confirm notary availability in advance, especially for in-person visits, to avoid arriving when no notary is on duty.
- For RON sessions, test your webcam, microphone, and internet connection beforehand to avoid technical delays.
Notarization Fees and What to Expect
Notary fees are typically regulated at the state level, so what you pay can depend on where you are located. Banks and credit unions sometimes offer notarization at no charge to account holders, which can make them a cost-effective option for straightforward documents.
RON platforms typically charge a service fee that may be higher than the per-signature cost of in-person notarization. However, many people find that the time saved, along with the convenience of not needing to travel or take time off work, can make the cost worthwhile. Fee structures vary by platform, so reviewing pricing before scheduling your session is a good practice.
Conclusion
Understanding how long it takes to notarize a document comes down to knowing your options and how prepared you are going in. In-person visits to a bank or shipping center can be quick and straightforward, typically taking anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes once you are with the notary, though travel time and availability can add to the overall process. Remote Online Notarization tends to offer a faster, more flexible experience for those who qualify and have the right technology on hand.
Whichever route you choose, preparation is your best time-saving tool. Having your identification ready, your document properly filled out, and your notary appointment confirmed ahead of time can make the difference between a smooth, 15-minute process and an unexpectedly long one.
For many individuals and small businesses, the difference often comes down to whether convenience and time savings outweigh the familiarity of an in-person visit.
For most people, the quickest way to notarize a document is through Remote Online Notarization. While traditional notarization remains widely used, online notarization can reduce travel, scheduling, and wait times while providing a secure and legally recognized process in many jurisdictions. The best option depends on your document type, state requirements, and personal preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to notarize a document online compared to in person?
Remote Online Notarization tends to be faster overall than traditional in-person notarization when you factor in the time needed to travel to a physical location, wait for an available notary, and complete the process. Most RON sessions, once identity verification is complete, can take under 30 minutes from start to finish. In-person notarization at a bank or shipping center typically takes 5 to 30 minutes for the actual notarization, but scheduling and travel can add considerably more time. For straightforward documents where RON is permitted, many people find the online option to be a more efficient use of their time.
What can slow down the notarization process?
Several things can delay notarization, whether in person or online. Arriving at a bank or shipping center without a notary on duty, or during a particularly busy period, can mean a longer wait than expected. For any type of notarization, showing up without a valid ID or with a document that has already been signed can cause the appointment to be rescheduled entirely. For RON sessions specifically, technical issues like a poor internet connection or a malfunctioning webcam can also add delays. Taking a few minutes to prepare before your appointment, such as checking your equipment in advance for an online session or calling ahead for an in-person visit, can help things go more smoothly.
Do all documents qualify for Remote Online Notarization?
Not all documents can be notarized remotely, and eligibility may depend on the state where the notarization takes place, the requirements of the receiving institution, and the type of document involved. Some document types, such as certain real estate instruments or estate planning documents, may have specific requirements that vary by jurisdiction. RON laws also differ significantly from state to state; some have well-established frameworks for remote notarization while others have more limited provisions. It is advisable to check with your state’s regulatory authorities and, when in doubt, consult an attorney to confirm whether RON is an appropriate option for your particular document.
What ID do I need to get a document notarized?
Most notaries require a current, government-issued photo ID to verify your identity before completing any notarization. A driver’s license, state-issued identification card, or valid passport are commonly accepted forms of ID. For Remote Online Notarization, the identity verification process typically also includes Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA), which may involve answering questions based on your personal history, in addition to a credential analysis of your ID. Requirements can vary by platform and by state, so it is a good idea to confirm what identification is needed before your scheduled appointment.
Can multiple people sign a document during the same notarization session?
Yes, many documents require signatures from more than one person, and notarization services can often accommodate this. For in-person notarization, all signers typically need to be physically present at the same time so the notary can verify each person’s identity and witness each signature. For RON sessions, multiple signers may be able to join the same video session from different locations, which can be a significant convenience for documents requiring several parties. The availability of this feature can vary by platform, and requirements for multi-signer documents may also differ by state, so it is worth confirming the specifics with your RON provider before scheduling.
What is the fastest way to get a document notarized?
In many cases, the fastest way to get a document notarized is through Remote Online Notarization (RON). When you are prepared with your document and a valid government-issued ID, the process can often be completed in under 30 minutes from start to finish. This is because RON removes the need to travel, wait in line, or coordinate around business hours.
By comparison, in-person notarization may only take a few minutes once you are with the notary, but the total time can increase significantly when you factor in travel, availability, and wait times. For some people, especially those with limited access to a nearby notary, this can extend the process to an hour or more.
That said, the fastest option can depend on your situation. If you already have immediate access to a notary with no wait time, an in-person visit may be just as quick. However, for many individuals and small businesses, online notarization tends to offer a more efficient overall experience.
To use RON services, you will need a computer with webcam and audio capabilities, along with a reliable internet connection. It is also a good idea to confirm that your document type and state allow for remote notarization before getting started, as requirements can vary by jurisdiction.
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