Mobile Notary Fees Explained: What Are You Paying For?

Demystifying the Bill

When you hire a mobile notary, the quote can sometimes seem higher than the $15-per-signature you might expect. It is important to understand the breakdown of mobile notary fees in California to know exactly what you are paying for. At Torrance Notary, we believe in 100% transparency.

1. The Notarization Fee (Regulated)

The State of California sets a maximum fee that a notary can charge for the act of notarization itself. Currently, this is $15 per signature for an Acknowledgment or Jurat. We strictly adhere to this cap. If you have two documents needing one signature each, the notary fee is $30.

2. The Travel Fee (Unregulated)

This is where mobile services differ from a UPS store. You are paying for the luxury of service at your doorstep. The travel fee covers:
- Time: The time spent driving to and from your location.
- Vehicle Costs: Gas, wear and tear, insurance.
- Convenience: The ability to book a specific time slot.

Our travel fees are flat-rate based on distance and time of day. We quote this upfront. There are no "hidden" mileage charges.

3. Wait Time / After-Hours Fees

If the appointment runs significantly longer than expected (e.g., the signer is late, or wants to read every word of a 100-page trust while we wait), a wait-time fee may apply. Similarly, appointments at 10 PM or on holidays command a premium rate, similar to emergency plumbing or locksmith services.

We provide a single, all-inclusive quote before we book the appointment. You will know exactly what the total will be, regardless of traffic or gas prices.