Notary fees vary significantly depending on your state, the type of notarization, and whether the notary travels to you. This guide breaks down every cost you might encounter so there are no surprises.
Standard Notarization Fees
Most states regulate the maximum amount a notary can charge per notarization (per signature). These fees typically range from $2 to $25 per signature, with most states falling in the $5–$15 range. Some states set a firm maximum, while others let the market decide.
States with regulated maximum fees in our database:
| State | Max Fee per Notarization |
|---|---|
| California | $15.00 |
| Florida | $10.00 |
For a complete state-by-state comparison, see our notary fees by state page.
Mobile Notary Fees
A mobile notary travels to your location - home, office, hospital, or anywhere else convenient. Because of this convenience, mobile notaries charge additional fees beyond the standard per-signature rate:
- Travel fee: $25–$50 typical, may be higher for long distances or rural areas
- Per-signature fee: same state-regulated maximum as any notary
- After-hours surcharge: $10–$25 for evenings, weekends, or holidays
- Total typical cost: $50–$100 for a single appointment with 1–3 signatures
Loan signing agents - notaries specializing in mortgage and real estate closings - often charge $75–$200 per appointment because of the complexity and number of documents involved.
Online Notarization (RON) Fees
Remote Online Notarization typically costs a flat $25 per session, regardless of how many signatures are needed. This makes RON one of the most predictable and affordable options, especially for multi-signature documents.
RON is currently authorized in 28 states. Even if your state isn't on the list, you can typically use a notary commissioned in a RON-authorized state.
Walk-in Notary Fees
Walk-in locations like UPS Stores, banks, and shipping centers typically charge the standard per-signature fee set by your state. Banks often notarize documents for free if you're an account holder - this is the cheapest option if you have a flexible schedule.
What Affects Notary Cost?
- Number of signatures - each signature on each document is a separate notarization
- Travel distance - only applies to mobile notaries; longer trips cost more
- Time of day - after-hours and weekend appointments carry surcharges for mobile notaries
- Document complexity - loan signings and real estate closings take longer and cost more
- Your state - fee caps vary from $2 (some states) to $25+ (others)
How to Save Money on Notarization
- Use your bank - many banks notarize for free for account holders
- Batch your documents - get everything notarized in a single visit or session
- Use RON for multi-signature docs - flat $25 regardless of signature count
- Go during business hours - avoid after-hours surcharges from mobile notaries
- Check public libraries - some offer free or low-cost notary services