Mobile Notary Cheat Sheet
A quick-reference guide: sample fee schedule, when you must refuse, ID red flags, and scripts every professional mobile notary should have memorized.
Jump to the GuideSample Fee Schedule
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Notarial act (per signature) | State maximum ($5–$25) |
| Travel fee (0–10 miles, business hours) | $35 |
| Travel fee (10–25 miles) | $60 |
| Travel fee (25–50 miles) | $95 |
| After-hours / weekend surcharge | +$25 |
| Hospital / care facility surcharge | +$25 |
| Wait time (after 15 min on-site) | $1/minute |
| Return trip (documents not ready) | Full travel fee |
| Estate package (flat rate, up to 15 sigs) | $225 |
| Apostille runner service | $100 + state fees |
Per-signature fees are capped by state law — check your state's maximum. Travel fees are separately negotiated and must be disclosed to the signer before the appointment.
When You Must Refuse
- Signer is not physically present
- Signer cannot produce a current, unexpired government photo ID
- Signer appears confused, medicated, coerced, or does not understand the document
- Document has blank spaces the signer refuses to fill in
- You have a personal interest in the transaction
- Signer does not speak the language the document is written in
You can still bill your travel fee when you refuse — that compensates your time, not the notarization.
ID Red Flags
- Expired ID (even one day past)
- Photocopy or phone image of an ID
- Signer's appearance dramatically differs from photo
- ID from a jurisdiction not accepted in your state
- Signature on ID doesn't remotely match the signer's live signature
- Signer refuses to remove sunglasses / hat / face covering for comparison
Scripts to Memorize
Signer asks for legal advice
"I'm not able to advise on the document — that's the unauthorized practice of law. I'd recommend calling the attorney who drafted it before we sign."
Family member answers for signer
"I need to hear from [name] directly. Can you confirm in your own words what you're signing today?"
Client tries to negotiate fee down
"My travel fee covers being available, insured, and on-site anywhere in [city]. The per-signature fee is the state maximum. I can absolutely refer you to a UPS store if a bank-hours option works."
Attorney's office asks for a rate card
"Happy to send one over. If you're referring 3+ signings a month, I offer a standing $400/month retainer for the first 8 appointments."
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