To ensure a smooth and legally binding notarization for your loved one, please have the following ready before the notary arrives:

​

1. The Golden Rule: Valid Photo ID

​

The State of Texas is very strict. We cannot notarize without one of the following (it must be the physical card, not a photo on a phone):

​

• Texas Driver’s License or ID Card (Must be current or expired less than 5 years).

• U.S. Passport (Must be current).

   

• U.S. Military ID (Must contain a photo and signature).

   

• Foreign Passport (Must be stamped by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services).

   

• Note: Social Security cards, Birth Certificates, and Medicare cards are not valid forms of ID for notarization.

   

2. Mental Alertness & Capacity

​

By law, the signer must be alert, aware, and signing of their own free will.

​

• The "Awareness Test": The notary will ask the signer simple questions (e.g., "What are you signing today?" or "What is your name?".

• Medication: If the signer is heavily sedated or under the influence of strong pain medication that causes confusion, the notarization must be rescheduled.

• Communication: The signer must be able to communicate directly with the notary (verbal, written, or clear nodding/gestures).

​

3. The "Physical" Signing

​

• Can they hold a pen? If the signer is physically unable to sign their full name, Texas law allows for a "Signature by Mark" (usually an "X"). This requires two disinterested witnesses (not family members).

   

• Blank Spaces: Ensure the document is completely filled out before the notary arrives. We cannot notarize a document that has blank lines in the body of the text.

​

4. Witnesses (If Required)

​

• Check your document! Many medical POAs or Wills require one or two witnesses in addition to the notary.

   

• Who can witness? Usually, witnesses cannot be related to the signer or named in the document.

• Tip: It is often best to ask a neighbor or a friend to come by, as hospital staff are frequently prohibited by their employers from acting as