5 Things to Know Before Getting a Document Notarized in Texas
If you live in the Greater Houston area, chances are you’ll eventually need a notary. From real estate closings to powers of attorney, school documents, medical forms, and business contracts, notarization plays a key role in keeping paperwork official and legally valid.
As a Texas notary serving Harris, Fort Bend, and Brazoria Counties, I help clients every day who aren’t quite sure what to expect before their appointment. The good news? Getting a document notarized is simple when you’re prepared.
Here are five important things to know before meeting with a notary in Texas.
1. Bring a Valid Form of Identification
A valid, government-issued photo ID is required in Texas to verify your identity. Acceptable forms include:
Texas driver’s license or state ID card
US passport
US military ID
Permanent resident (green) card
Your ID mut be current (not expired). If your name on the document doesn’t match your ID (for example, due to marriage), bring supporting paperwork like a marriage certificate.
Tip: Check your ID before your appointment to avoid delays.
2. The Signer Must Be Present
The person signing the document must be physically in front of the notary (or live on video if you’re using Remote Online Notarization).
You can’t sign the document ahead of time and drop it off — the notary has to witness the signature happening in real time. This ensures the document is authentic and legally valid.
3. Documents Must Be Complete (No Blanks!)
Notaries in Texas cannot notarize incomplete documents. Every section must be filled in before the appointment.
This rule exists to prevent fraud or unauthorized changes after notarization.
If you’re not sure how to complete your document, ask the person or organization that issued it. Notaries can’t provide legal advice or explain legal language — our role is to verify identity and witness the signature.
4. Understand What a Texas Notary Can and Cannot Do
Notaries serve a very specific role. In Texas, a notary can:
Verify your identity
Confirm you’re signing willingly and knowingly
Witness your signature
Apply a state-approved notary seal
Notaries cannot:
Draft legal documents
Interpret legal meaning
Provide legal advice
Think of a notary as a trusted, impartial witness — we ensure your paperwork is executed properly, not that the content itself is correct.
5. You Have Options: In-Person, Mobile, or Online Notarization
Many people are surprised to learn that notarization in Texas can be flexible. Depending on your needs, you can choose:
Traditional In-Person: Meet with a notary face to face in a set location
Mobile Notary: Have the notary come to you at home, the office, hospital or any convenient place
Remote Online Notarization (RON): Using secure video technology, you can get documents notarized virtually from anywhere in Texas
The notary must be physically located in Texas
The signer (client) can be located anywhere, including elsewhere in the U.S. or abroad.
As a 24-hour notary serving Greater Houston (Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Brazoria County), I provide all three options — so you can pick the one that best fits your schedule, even if it’s late evening, early morning, or on the weekend.
Final Thoughts
Notarization doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right ID, a complete document, and the signer present, you’ll be ready for a smooth and efficient appointment. And with options like mobile and online notarization, you can get it done on your terms.
If you’re in the Greater Houston area and need a notary — whether it’s at your home, office, hospital, or virtually online — I’m here to make the process fast, professional, and convenient.
Need a document notarized now? Contact me today for 24-hour notary services in Harris, Fort Bend, and Brazoria Counties.