What is required for a document to be eligible for notarization?

For a document to be eligible for notarization, it is essential that the signer appears in person and provides a valid form of identification. This requirement ensures that the notary can verify the identity of the signer, which is a critical component of the notarization process. The purpose of notarization is to deter fraud and ensure that the person signing the document is who they claim to be, so personal appearance and valid ID are fundamental.

While the notary's approval of the document's content may seem important, the notary does not assess or verify the substantive correctness of the document's information; rather, they focus on the identity of the signer and the integrity of the signing process. Additionally, documents do not need to be typewritten; handwritten documents can also be notarized as long as they meet other criteria. Furthermore, the presence of a witness during the signing is not a universal requirement for notarization, as certain documents may not need a witness at all, depending on the laws of the jurisdiction.

Thus, ensuring the signer appears in person and provides proper identification is the essential criteria for notarization.